YouTube has finalized a new agreement with the music licensing organization SESAC, resolving a dispute that resulted in the removal of numerous hit songs over the weekend. The lack of an agreement led to songs from high-profile artists like Adele, Nirvana, and Kanye West disappearing from YouTube and YouTube Music. This caused a stir among users and fans as tracks like “Hello” and “Power” were unexpectedly unavailable.
SESAC, which represents over 15,000 affiliated songwriters, composers, and publishers, confirmed that YouTube had preemptively removed these songs ahead of the contract’s expiration date on October 1st, 2024. The dispute centered around the renewal of licensing terms, which SESAC sought to update to ensure equitable compensation for its artists.
After days of negotiations, both parties have now come to terms, and YouTube has started the process of reinstating the removed content. The exact details of the agreement have not been disclosed, but the resolution means that songs will begin reappearing on the platform over the next few days.
The deal’s impact is significant, ensuring that SESAC’s extensive catalog, which includes over 1.5 million works, will once again be accessible to millions of users on YouTube and YouTube Music in the United States.
