TikTok and Universal Music Group (UMG) have ended their months-long licensing dispute, meaning hit songs from Universal artists will once again be available to users of the short-form video platform. The two companies reached a new agreement that improves artists’ pay and includes stronger protections around the use of artificial intelligence.

Earlier this year, Universal Music pulled its catalog from TikTok due to issues with the amount of royalties TikTok pays. This means that videos featuring songs from big artists such as Billie Eilish, The Weeknd and Drake have been muted until a resolution has been reached. The lack of such popular tracks has affected the creators and user engagement of the app.

However, after negotiations, TikTok and Universal reached an agreement. According to the new licensing agreement, Universal artists will receive higher royalty payments than before. In addition, TikTok has pledged not to develop AI tools that can create music without consent.

It will also remove AI-generated songs when requested by rights holders. it helps address concerns Coaches like Billie Eilish that emerging technologies may threaten human creativity.

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Fans on TikTok can look forward to the return of UMG’s recorded music and publishing catalogs and once again enjoy creating videos using music from some of the world’s biggest artists and songwriters, as well as exciting talent.

As part of the agreement, the two organizations will work together to realize new monetization opportunities leveraging TikTok’s growing e-commerce capabilities and work together on campaigns supporting UMG artists across genres and territories worldwide.

Lucian Grange, chairman and CEO of Universal, expressed that the new deal prioritizes “the value of music, the primacy of human art and the well-being of the creative community.” He said Universal looks forward to partnering with TikTok to further support artists and songwriters.

Xu Chu, CEO of TikTok, noted that music is an integral part of the TikTok experience. He emphasized TikTok’s commitment to work with Universal to increase value, discovery and promotion for all its artists and songwriters.