Taylor Swift and TikTok have resolved their dispute, allowing some of Swift’s songs to return to the app after a widespread music removal in early February due to issues between TikTok and Universal Music Group (UMG), which distributes Swift’s work. Swift’s decision to bring her tracks back to TikTok is seen as a smart marketing move as she prepares to release her new album, The Tortured Poets Department, on April 19. This move showcases her ability to compete with the biggest music distributor in the world. While other UMG artists are still not back on TikTok, Swift’s ownership rights enable her to work directly with the app.
UMG began pulling songs from TikTok on Feb. 1, following the expiration of their licensing contract with the app. The company cited issues such as fair compensation for artists and songwriters, protection from harmful effects of AI, and online safety for users as reasons for the removal of music from TikTok. TikTok argued that they had reached agreements with other labels and publishers, accusing UMG of self-serving actions that do not benefit artists, songwriters, and fans. The dispute between UMG and TikTok continues, with UMG standing by their decision to enforce fair compensation for artists and songwriters.
Several popular Taylor Swift songs, including Cruel Summer, You Belong With Me, Lover, and Taylor’s Version variations of Fearless, Style, and Is It Over Now? have been spotted back on TikTok as of April 12. Users are now able to incorporate these tracks into their videos. While songs from Swift’s upcoming album are not yet on TikTok, there is speculation that they may become available on the app after the album’s release. The return of Swift’s songs to TikTok offers an exciting opportunity for fans to engage with her music on the platform.
In addition to her music returning to TikTok, Taylor Swift is gearing up for her upcoming Eras Tour, which will resume in May 2024 after the release of The Tortured Poets Department. The tour will take Swift across Europe and Canada, with the final scheduled date as of now on Dec. 8 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Swift’s continued success in the music industry, coupled with her strategic decisions regarding digital platforms like TikTok, solidify her position as a powerhouse artist who is able to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the music industry. Fans can look forward to experiencing her music both online and on tour in the coming months.
