Universal Music Group (UMG) and Meta announced an expanded global, multi-year agreement extending UMG’s music licensing across Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, Horizon, Threads, and WhatsApp for the first time.

The deal builds upon the framework established in their 2017 agreement. It aims to bring creative and commercial opportunities for UMG artists and Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) songwriters across Meta’s network.

Key aspects of the partnership include:

1. Expansion to WhatsApp and potentially opening new revenue streams for artists and songwriters.
2. Short-form video monetization enhancing monetization opportunities in this growing content format.
3. AI content management addressing unauthorized AI-generated content that could affect artists and songwriters.
4. Fair compensation for human creators and artistry.

“This partnership builds on the recognition that music can help connect us and bring fans, artists, and songwriters closer together, not only on established platforms such as Instagram and Facebook but also in new ways on WhatsApp and more,” Tamara Hrivnak, VP of Music & Content Business Development at Meta, said in a press release.

We look forward to working together to address unauthorized AI-generated content that could affect artists and songwriters so that UMG can continue to protect their rights both now and in the future,” said Michael Nash, Chief Digital Officer & EVP at Universal Music Group.

Since 2017, UMG and Meta have explored new channels for licensed music within the Meta ecosystem, including virtual reality experiences and user-generated content (UGC).