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UMG’s TikTok Standoff Affects Over 60% of the Most Popular Songs
The Universal Music and TikTok fight affects the majority of the most popular songs from Q4 of 2023, including Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer."
An example of this complexity is “What It Is (Block Boy)” by Doechii featuring Kodak Black, released by UMG-owned Capitol Records (the track entered the Hot 100 in May thanks to success on TikTok). The recording includes a sample of TLC ’s 1999 hit “No Scrubs” and interpolates a hook from “Some Cut” by Lil Scrappy and Trillville, which reached No. UMG’s inability to reach a deal with TikTok impacts every major label group and likely touches every music publisher of note.
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