Stonebwoy, Mr Eazi's songs to be returned to TikTok after new Universal Music deal

Users of the popular video-sharing app, TikTok who are also fans of Ghanaian dancehall sensation Stonebwoy will see a return of many songs belonging to the musician on the app.

In a landmark deal, Universal Music Group (UMG) and TikTok have signed a new deal to ensure the return of UMG's extensive song catalogue and music videos to the popular social media platform, TikTok.

The conflict, which began on February 1, 2024, over royalty payments, led to a standoff after the previous contract expired on January 31, 2024.

UMG had criticised TikTok for offering unfair compensation to its artistes and songwriters, accusing the platform of coercing them into accepting an unfavourable deal.

TikTok had initially declined UMG's terms, resulting in the removal of some songs from various UMG artistes including Stonebwoy, Yemi Alade, and Mr. Eazi from the platform.

However, in a recent statement from UMG's website sighted by GhanaWeb on May 1, both parties have agreed to move forward together.

Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of UMG, said that the partnership's focus is on valuing music and supporting the creative community.

“We look forward to collaborating with the team at TikTok to further the interests of our artists and songwriters and drive innovation in fan engagement while advancing social music monetization,” he was quoted in the statement.

Shou Chew, CEO of TikTok, expressed his excitement over the integration of UMG's music into TikTok's vibrant ecosystem.

“We are committed to working together to drive value, discovery and promotion for all of UMG’s amazing artists and songwriters, and deepen their ability to grow, connect and engage with the TikTok community,” he was also quoted.

The deal will see the return of UMG's recorded music and publishing catalogues to TikTok, allowing fans to once again create content with tracks from some of the biggest names in the industry as well as up-and-coming talents.

Both companies are set to explore new monetization avenues through TikTok's e-commerce features and collaborative campaigns to promote UMG's artists globally.

TikTok is also investing in tools designed to bolster artists' presence on the platform, including the "Add to Music App," advanced analytics, and ticketing capabilities, all while ensuring online safety for artists and fans.

Efforts will also be made to eliminate unauthorised AI-generated music and improve attribution for artists and songwriters.

This agreement marks the comeback of artistes like Stonebwoy, Yemi Alade, Mr. Eazi, Sauti Sol, Techno, Nasty C, Vanessa Mdee, and Youssou N’Dour on TikTok.

ID/NOQ