A legal dispute between YouTube and performing rights organization SESAC has resulted in the blocking of music by several prominent artists on the video sharing platform.
- September 29, 2024
AceShowbiz - Songs by Adele, Bob Dylan, Green Day, R.E.M., Burna Boy, Rush, Kendrick Lamar, Nirvana, and Mariah Carey are among those currently unavailable on YouTube in the United States. When users attempt to play these songs, they receive a message stating, "This video contains content from SESAC. It is not available in your country."
YouTube stated in a statement that they have been unable to reach an agreement with SESAC to renew their existing deal. "As a result, content represented by SESAC is no longer available on YouTube in the US," they said. SESAC is smaller than other performing rights organizations such as ASCAP and BMI, but it represents a significant portion of the music market. They collect royalties and protect copyrights on behalf of songwriters and music publishers.
A source close to the situation suggests that YouTube's move may be a negotiating tactic, as the previous deal actually does not expire until next week.
The blockage has affected not only direct performances of SESAC-affiliated songs but also songs by other artists that feature SESAC-affiliated songwriters. Fans have expressed frustration on social media while YouTube continues to work on reaching a new agreement with SESAC.
Similar disputes have occurred in the past, such as the battle between Universal Music Group and TikTok earlier this year. However, such blocks typically do not last more than a few days or weeks.
