Statements on TikTok's decision not to renew its deal with Merlin

03 October 2024 - Press release

IMPF:
"TikTok must engage with and establish a licensing agreement with Merlin if it wishes to use the music of Merlin's members on its platform. To try and circumnavigate Merlin's collective licensing is a thinly veiled attempt to divide independent labels and drive down the price of music. Merlin's members have entrusted their rights to the organisation in order to uphold transparency, efficiency and fair remuneration. That must be respected."

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AIM's Interim CEO Gee Davy:
"The independent music community have engaged enthusiastically and respectfully with TikTok, and TikTok should in turn respect labels' choice to licence through Merlin. Merlin's collective approach ensures independent music achieves the high value it deserves. This is vital for maintaining an open market with strong consumer choice and supports diverse emerging artists in breaking through. Online fraud is an issue across the whole industry but our members tell us that Merlin is a leader in tackling this. Fraud is best combatted by the industry engaging and working collaboratively, as Merlin have been doing effectively with platform partners."