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Taylor Swift fans, known as Swifties, rejoice as her songs return on TikTok just before releasing her highly anticipated album, “The Tortured Poets Department.”
Despite recent disputes between TikTok and Universal Music Group (UMG), some of Swift’s hit tracks are now available for users to incorporate into their videos, fueling excitement for the upcoming album, which drops on April 19.
The TikTok Reinstatement:
After a hiatus of about two months, TikTok users regain access to Taylor Swift’s songs on the platform, including favorites like “Cruel Summer,” “Cardigan,” and “Is It Over Now? (Taylor’s Version).”
While other UMG songs remain unavailable, the return of Swift’s catalog sparks anticipation among fans, although the reason for the reinstatement remains unclear.
Background on TikTok-UMG Dispute:
The removal of Taylor Swift’s songs from TikTok stemmed from a disagreement between Universal Music Group and the social media platform regarding compensation and AI issues.
UMG announced its decision to cease licensing content to TikTok following failed negotiations for a new agreement, citing inadequate payment proposals from TikTok.
Timeline of Events:
- In January, Variety reported on UMG’s intention to let its agreement with TikTok expire, which would result in the removal of UMG’s music catalog from the platform.
- A month later, tensions escalated as more UMG tracks disappeared from TikTok, affecting artists and collaborations under the label.
- Despite the dispute, some of Swift’s songs resurfaced on TikTok as users uploaded unofficial versions labeled “original” sounds, exploiting a loophole in the platform’s content moderation.
Implications for “The Tortured Poets Department”:
While Swift’s songs are back on TikTok, uncertainties remain about whether tracks from her upcoming album will be available on the platform.
With the dispute unresolved, Swifties may have to turn to other streaming platforms to enjoy the new album, which offers multiple versions and bonus tracks in various formats.
