Universal Music Group Signs Licensing Deal to Allow Facebook and Instagram Users to Use Songs in Videos

Facebook has struck a deal with Universal Music Group. Under the new global, multi-year agreement, UMG will become the first major music company to license it's music and publishing catalogs for videos and other social experiences across Facebook and Instagram, Variety reports.

“There is a magnetic relationship between music and community building. We are excited to bring that to life on Facebook, Instagram, Oculus and Messenger in partnership with UMG," said Tamara Hrivnak, Facebook's Head of Music Business Development and Partnerships. "Music lovers, artists and writers will all be right at home as we open up creativity, connection and innovation through music and video.”

The move with Facebook comes just two days after Universal announced a global partnership with YouTube. According to the report, sources believe the agreement includes components that will help drive consumers toward YouTube's paid music service.

UMG's Executive Vice President of Digital Strategy, Michael Nash added, "This partnership is an important first step demonstrating that innovation and fair compensation for music creators are mutually reinforcing — they thrive together. We look forward to Facebook becoming a significant contributor to a healthy ecosystem for music that will benefit artists, fans and all those who invest in bringing great music to the world.”
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Terms of UMG and Facebook's deal were not disclosed, but it's believed UMG received a large advance.