The licensing game unveils many funny bits for the music industry newcomers, whether it’s the arrival of WhatsApp in the game or the gaming industry itself. Mingling with the traditional actors we’re used to seeing in our weekly roundups, let’s talk music business.
#1. Apple Music deepens its relationship with TikTok
Apple Music's upcoming iOS 18.1 update introduces a new feature that allows users to share songs directly to TikTok. With a new button in the Apple Music app, users can share their favorite tracks as photos, videos, or private messages. When shared as a video, TikTok will automatically link the song to the post, allowing for easy integration of music into content creation.
A similar functionality was added to Instagram in 2020, enhancing cross-platform engagement between Apple Music and TikTok. The iOS 18.1 update also includes AI-driven tools, but the song-sharing feature stands out for music fans and TikTok creators.
#2. WhatsApp gets its first licensing deal
Warner Music Group (WMG) has signed a new multi-year licensing deal with Meta, covering Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, Threads, and WhatsApp. This deal expands opportunities for WMG's artists and songwriters across Meta’s platforms and includes collaboration on AI-driven content.
Actually, this is WhatsApp’s first-ever music licensing agreement, following a similar deal between Meta and Universal Music Group earlier this year. The partnership strengthens Meta's music offerings while WMG continues to advocate for AI protections and content rights management in the evolving digital landscape.
#3. Brazil steps into the music industry’s markets top 10
Brazil's music industry is rapidly climbing the global ranks, driven by a resurgence in the country's economy and booming streaming adoption. According to a recent MIDiA report, Brazil's recorded music market grew by 18.7% in 2023, far outpacing global growth, and generating $641 million in revenue.
Streaming now accounts for over 80% of Brazil’s music revenues, making it the seventh-largest streaming market worldwide. With a young, tech-savvy population and more than 30 million paid subscriptions, Brazil's local music scene—particularly genres like Brazilian funk and rap—is gaining global attention. Major players like Warner Music Group, Universal, and ByteDance are investing in the market, further cementing Brazil’s position as a growing force in the international music industry.
#4. The .MUSIC domain is here
The .MUSIC domain has officially launched, providing verified digital identities for the global music community, including artists, songwriters, and industry professionals. This top-level domain offers a secure and trusted online space to protect against issues like AI deepfakes and unauthorized use of intellectual property.
The domain is available exclusively to verified music industry members and aims to foster trust and transparency in the digital music ecosystem. Supported by major organizations like IFPI, RIAA, and CISAC, the launch is seen as a significant step toward enhancing authenticity and security in the music industry.
#5. The challenges of licensing in gaming
However, challenges remain, such as complex copyright ownership and pre-cleared music libraries that sideline negotiations for rights-holders. A prime example is The Ink Spots' "I Don’t Want to Set the World on Fire," which saw a surge in popularity after its use in the Fallout game and TV series, driving millions of streams. Educating rights-holders on these opportunities can help them better leverage game placements for long-term financial and cultural benefits.
