Taylor Swift and TikTok have recently reconciled, allowing some of Swift’s songs to be back on the app after a dispute between TikTok and Universal Music Group led to a massive music removal in early February. This move is significant for Swift as she prepares to release her new album, The Tortured Poets Department, on April 19. Swift’s ownership of her recordings gives her the ability to make this decision, unlike other UMG artists whose songs are still not back on TikTok. The dispute between UMG and TikTok arose from issues surrounding fair compensation for artists and songwriters, protection from harmful effects of AI, and online safety for users.
Variety reported that several popular Taylor Swift songs, including Cruel Summer, You Belong With Me, Lover, and the Taylor’s Version variations of Fearless, Style, and Is It Over Now?, have made a return to TikTok as of April 12. Users are now able to incorporate these tracks into their videos. As of the current writing, there are no songs from Swift’s upcoming album on TikTok, but this may change on the release date of The Tortured Poets Department. The return of her songs marks a positive development in the relationship between Swift and TikTok.
Taylor Swift will be embarking on the Eras Tour throughout 2024, with dates scheduled across Europe and Canada. After the release of The Tortured Poets Department, Swift will resume her tour on May 9 in Paris and conclude on Dec. 8 in Vancouver, British Columbia. The tour promises to be a highly anticipated event for fans, showcasing Swift’s musical evolution and hits from different eras of her career. This tour will provide fans with the opportunity to experience Swift’s music live and witness her growth as an artist.
The dispute between UMG and TikTok stemmed from the expiration of their licensing contract on February 1, leading to the removal of songs from the app. UMG expressed concerns about fair compensation for artists and songwriters, protection from harmful AI, and online safety for users. TikTok countered by stating that they had reached “artist-first” agreements with other labels and publishers, highlighting their commitment to artists, songwriters, and fans. The ongoing issues between UMG and TikTok have yet to be fully resolved, but individual artists like Taylor Swift, who have ownership of their work, may have the ability to negotiate directly with TikTok to bring their songs back to the platform.
Swift’s decision to allow her songs back on TikTok demonstrates her ability to navigate complex music industry dynamics and advocate for fair compensation for artists. As one of the industry’s biggest stars, Swift’s actions can set a precedent for other artists and labels in their negotiations with streaming platforms. The return of Swift’s music to TikTok not only benefits her fans but also enhances her presence in the digital music landscape, ensuring that her music continues to reach a wide audience and resonate with listeners of all ages.
