Tag: TikTok

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Universal Music Group Removes K-Pop Artists’ Music From TikTok

UMG

On January 31, 2024, Universal Music Group (UMG) removed the music of popular K-pop groups such as BLACKPINK, BTS, ENHYPEN, Stray Kids, and others from TikTok. This decision came after UMG and TikTok failed to reach a new licensing agreement. It affects not only K-pop artists but also Western pop stars like Drake, Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj, and Taylor Swift. 

The removal led to a wave of disappointment and concern among K-pop fans on social media, lamenting the loss of a substantial portion of TikTok’s music library.

UMG addressed TikTok and brought up their concerns over royalties in an open letter published a day before the removal. UMG accused TikTok of attempting to underpay artists and songwriters, offering a fraction of what UMG deems fair. The letter emphasized the need for fair compensation for artists and songwriters, protection against the harmful effects of AI on human artists, and ensuring online safety for TikTok users.

Why Universal Music Group is pulling songs from TikTok

TikTok responded to UMG

TikTok responded by criticizing UMG for prioritizing money over the welfare of its artists and songwriters. A ByteDance representative said UMG is spreading a “false narrative.” TikTok defended its platform as a free promotional and discovery vehicle for talent, highlighting its successful agreements with other labels and publishers that prioritize artists. Speaking of artists, this dispute has affected them by limiting their exposure and ability to engage with fans on a platform known for its viral potential.

For fans, this move has led to a diminished experience on TikTok, because they no longer have access to a wide range of music for content creation or enjoyment. Fans who use TikTok to discover new music and connect with artists might find the platform less appealing. This could lead to a shift in where and how they listen to music.

Will UMG and TikTok ever fix things? Your guess is as good as ours, but we hope they will. It’s a huge loss for artists under the label to be unable to promote their songs on TikTok. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The songs were removed because of payment issues. Sources: X/@tiktok_us, X/@UMG.

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EXO Lay Joins Viral ‘The First Snow’ TikTok Challenge

EXO-Ls have a reason to celebrate this holiday season. Lay Zhang‘s recent participation in a TikTok challenge for EXO’s “The First Snow” has provided fans with a positive update on his status within the group.

EXO Member Lay Joins ‘The First Snow’ TikTok Challenge

Lay, who officially left SM Entertainment in 2022, has occasionally left fans wondering about his standing with EXO, especially with his absence from recent music videos.

The confusion around Lay’s status heightened due to updates on the SM Entertainment website, leaving fans uncertain about his role within the group. However, Lay’s recent TikTok activity has helped alleviate concerns and clarify that he remains connected to EXO.

The TikTok challenge for “The First Snow” gained popularity, sparking a surge in streaming and charting on the Melon Daily Chart. Lay’s participation in the challenge, where he showcased the dance moves and added a personal touch by forming the signature E-X-O with his hands, delighted fans. This enthusiastic response from Lay and the subsequent trending of “E-X-O,” “EXO Lay,” and “First Snow” on social media platforms reassured fans that Lay continues to be involved with and supportive of EXO.

https://twitter.com/trulychanyeol/status/1732421506645496142

While Lay’s official participation in music videos may have been limited in recent years, his commitment to participating in album productions and engaging in fan activities demonstrates his ongoing connection to EXO. Fans can look forward to more collaborative moments and updates from Lay, showcasing his enduring bond with the group and its members. The TikTok challenge not only brought joy to fans but also reinforced Lay’s commitment to EXO, fostering excitement and unity within the fandom.

“The First Snow” was originally released in 2013 in the EXO album ‘Miracles in December’. The song was released when EXO still had its original 12 members before Luhan, Kris, and Tao left the group in the following year.

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SHINee’s Minho Gives DynamicDuo First Viral TikTok Video

Occasionally, the world comes to a standstill, captivated by a singular presence. Presently, it’s none other than SHINee’s Minho who’s causing heads to turn and screens to light up on TikTok. The reason? His irresistible charisma combined with a classic song by DynamicDuo is setting the platform abuzz. Amazingly, the new video has already gained over 14 million views!

SHINee’s Minho Goes Viral on TikTok For Lip-Syncing Classic DynamicDuo Track

Minho has taken TikTok by storm with his mesmerizing lip-sync performance to DynamicDuo and DJ Premier’s “AEAO.” Dressed in a simple black short-sleeved shirt paired with stylish shades and sporting a charmingly tousled hairstyle, the SHINee member exudes casual yet striking allure. The result is a truly enchanting video that epitomizes viral content.

What makes this clip so captivating is not just the catchy track or Minho’s effortless charm—it’s the unbeatable fusion of both elements that has fans in a frenzy.

As of now, this TikTok video, which is posted on DynamicDuo’s account, has amassed a staggering 14 million views and garnered over 2.7 million likes. The comment section is overflowing with admiration from awestruck netizens, totaling more than 10,000 comments, all celebrating Minho’s dashing visuals.

Interestingly, DynamicDuo’s track “AEAO,” initially released in 2015, is enjoying a resurgence in popularity on TikTok, largely thanks to Minho’s endorsement. In fact, for those seeking the song on the platform, Minho’s clip is the first and foremost result, solidifying his status as a trendsetter in the digital realm.

SHINee dropped their eighth studio album “Hard” along with the eponymous lead single on June 26. The group is set to extend their musical journey with upcoming tour dates in Japan commencing in September. Additionally, SHINee is preparing to unveil a documentary film named “My SHINee World” during the same month. This cinematic tribute, celebrating their 15th anniversary, will offer fans an exclusive glimpse into their illustrious career, featuring previously unreleased footage that captures the essence of Shinee’s remarkable journey.

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