YouTube strikes deal with SESAC

YouTube and SESAC Reach Licensing Agreement, Restoring Blocked Music Videos

YouTube has successfully negotiated a licensing agreement with the performing rights organization SESAC, resolving a recent dispute that led to the removal of several popular music videos from its platform in the U.S.

This dispute had resulted in the blocking of content from notable artists such as Adele, Kendrick Lamar, Nirvana, Bob Dylan, Green Day, and Mariah Carey, among others. The issue arose when YouTube announced that its existing contract with SESAC had expired without an agreement on renewal terms, prompting the platform to remove the content.

In a statement shared via social media over the weekend, YouTube explained, "Despite our best efforts, we were unable to reach an agreement on renewal conditions." However, both SESAC and YouTube have now confirmed that a new deal has been established, allowing for the reinstatement of previously blocked videos.

Scott Jungmichel, President & COO of SESAC Performing Rights, noted that during negotiations, "our affiliates' works were unilaterally removed" by YouTube ahead of the contract’s expiration date of October 1, 2024.

Following the resolution of the dispute, YouTube announced that the missing content would be restored within the next couple of days. The platform expressed gratitude to users for their patience during the process.

"We're happy to share that YouTube has reached a deal with SESAC," the company stated. "Content that was previously blocked will be restored across YouTube services over the next day or two."

Jungmichel added, "We appreciate the support and patience of our affiliates, as well as the artists who perform those songs," highlighting the importance of fair compensation for songwriters and publishers.

With the agreement in place, fans can soon expect to see their favorite music videos back on YouTube.