The digital music world continues to grow rapidly, and the collaboration between Universal Music Group (UMG) and Meta has opened a new chapter in the industry. Recently, the two giants announced the expansion of their global music licensing deal, which will not only enrich the user experience on the social media platform but also promises greater benefits for artists and songwriters under the UMG umbrella.
Expansion of the Global Agreement
On August 12, 2024, Meta and Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, announced an expanded, multi-year global agreement that will further expand creative and commercial opportunities for UMG artists and Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) songwriters across Meta’s network of platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, Horizon, Threads, and, for the first time, WhatsApp.
Commitment to Protecting Creators
The agreement reflects the two companies’ shared commitment to protecting creators and artists, including ensuring that artists and songwriters are fairly compensated. Additionally, Meta and UMG will continue to work together to address unauthorized artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content that may impact artists and songwriters.
Meta and UMG have worked closely together since 2017 to explore emerging channels and creative ways for licensed music to thrive across Meta’s ecosystem, including virtual reality experiences on Meta Quest and Horizon, User Generated Content (UGC), live events, and other Meta products. This new agreement further expands monetization opportunities for UMG, as well as its artists and songwriters, through short-form video, building on Meta’s track record of innovation and collaboration.
Statement From Meta
Tamara Hrivnak, VP of Music and Content Business Development at Meta, expressed her excitement about the extension of the partnership with UMG and Universal Music Publishing Group, both of whom are innovators in music on social media, specifically in relation to the Meta family of apps. This partnership is built on the recognition that music can help connect us and bring fans, artists and songwriters closer together, not only on established platforms like Instagram and Facebook, but also in new ways on WhatsApp and beyond.
Strengthening Global Community Networks In Music
Michael Nash, Chief Digital Officer & EVP of Universal Music Group, expressed his delight that Meta has consistently demonstrated its commitment to artists and songwriters by helping to amplify the importance of music across its global network of engaged communities and platforms, creating new opportunities and applications where music amplifies and leads engagement and conversation. He also emphasized that UMG is pleased that Meta shares their artist-centric vision of respecting human creativity and fairly compensating artists and songwriters. He looks forward to continuing to work together to address unauthorized AI-generated content that can impact artists and songwriters, so that UMG can continue to protect their rights both now and in the future.
Impact on Local and Independent Artists
For local and independent artists, this deal also has several relevant implications:
- Access to a Larger Audience : With the expansion of licensing on Meta platforms, local and independent artists have the opportunity to reach a wider audience. This opens the door for them to introduce their work to new fans and expand their fan base.
- Monetization Opportunities : While local and independent artists may not have the same level of popularity as major artists, these deals still provide monetization opportunities. With more Meta users connected, artists can generate revenue through advertising, sponsorships, and music sales.
- Collaboration with Famous Artists : This agreement also strengthens the relationship between Meta and Universal Music Group (UMG). Local and independent artists can collaborate with famous artists affiliated with UMG, opening up opportunities for the exchange of ideas and experiences.
- Copyright Protection : As mentioned earlier, the agreement emphasizes copyright protection. Local and independent artists will benefit from a joint effort to combat unauthorized artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content.
Conclusion
The new deal expands monetization opportunities for UMG, its artists and songwriters in short-form video, furthering Meta and UMG’s track record of innovation and collaboration. Additionally, UMG is partnering with Meta to license music on WhatsApp, unlocking new value for UMG artists and songwriters in the future.
With this agreement, Meta and UMG continue to strengthen the relationship between music and fans, ensuring that music remains a strong connection on Meta's platforms and adds value to the entire creative ecosystem. Hopefully this article provides easy-to-understand and interesting information for readers!
