YouTube recently reached a new licensing agreement with performing rights organization SESAC, resolving a dispute that had led to the removal of music videos from popular artists on the platform over the weekend.
Songs Blocked and Resolution
Artists such as Adele, Nirvana, Bob Dylan, Green Day, R.E.M., Burna Boy, Rush, and others had their music videos blocked for U.S. viewers on YouTube on September 28. This action was a result of the disagreement between YouTube and SESAC, which represents 30,000 members and 1.5 million compositions. However, YouTube has confirmed that the blocked songs will be restored for U.S. users in the coming days as SESAC and YouTube have reached a tentative agreement on new licensing terms.
Statements from YouTube and SESAC
A spokesperson from YouTube expressed gratitude for SESAC’s reconsideration of their offer, leading to a successful deal and the imminent return of the content. Similarly, Scott Jungmichel, president and COO of SESAC, acknowledged the agreement with YouTube to fairly compensate SESAC’s songwriters and publishers. He also highlighted that YouTube had prematurely removed affiliates’ works during negotiations, but the process of reinstating videos featuring these songs has begun.
The TeamYouTube account shared a message for U.S. viewers, assuring them that the content previously blocked will be restored across YouTube services shortly, thanks to the agreement with SESAC.
Role of Performing Rights Organizations
SESAC and other performing rights organizations play a crucial role in collecting royalties and safeguarding copyrights for songwriters and music publishers. They have the authority to restrict public performances of music, including on platforms like YouTube, if licensing agreements are not in place.
SESAC’s Licensing
According to SESAC’s website, the organization currently licenses the public performance of a diverse group of songwriters, composers, and music publishers, including well-known names like Bob Dylan, Neil Diamond, Rush, Adele, and many others.
FAQs
Q: Why were music videos blocked on YouTube for U.S. viewers?
A: The blockage was a result of a dispute between YouTube and performing rights organization SESAC regarding licensing terms.
Q: When will the blocked music videos be restored on YouTube?
A: YouTube has confirmed that the blocked content will be reinstated within the next day or two following the agreement with SESAC.
Q: What role do performing rights organizations like SESAC play in the music industry?
A: Performing rights organizations collect royalties and protect copyrights on behalf of songwriters and music publishers, ensuring fair compensation for the use of their music.
Credit: variety.com
