If you're an artist looking to expand your reach by using TikTok, you've come to the right place. Below, we've compiled a guide on how to make your music available on TikTok, link your music to your TikTok profile, get verified, and address common issues.
What is TikTok?
TikTok is a fast-growing social media platform specialising in video and music content.
TikTok users integrate music into their video content and the artist behind the music gets paid. Artists can also use the platform for marketing and promotion efforts.
How can I make my music available on TikTok?
To have your music available on TikTok, you can opt for the World Domination package and choose TikTok as a store. This will include your music in TikTok's music products, allowing users to add it to their videos. This exposure can significantly increase as TikTok boasts a large and active user base.
Please note, TikTok does not approve the following types of content:
Public domain content or audio files that contain public domain content.
Generic and common sounds (e.g., audience applause, white noise).
Non-exclusive beats or sounds.
Multiple recordings within one file (e.g., DJ mixes, full albums).
Content licensed on a non-exclusive basis.
"Soundalikes" or karaoke versions of songs.
Classical music, particularly public domain works.
Live versions of songs that closely resemble the recorded version.
Derivative versions of recordings owned by other parties.
Re-recorded masters, re-mastered tracks, or remixed tracks where you do not own the original recording.
Any audio where you do not control the right to claim User Generated Content (UGC) videos that use 100% of the delivered audio. This includes cover songs we have not received any legitimate documentation you obtained from the original rights holder that clearly states you have the permission to monetize the cover on TikTok.
How do I add my song to a TikTok post?
When TikTok has processed your release and has already gone live, you will be able to find your track by looking for it using the search button on the TikTok app, type in the track title and the artist name, click 'Search' and go to the 'Sounds' tab.
Note: Please make sure you are using your personal TikTok profile when searching for your music as business profiles can only use royalty-free music.
How do I link my song to my TikTok profile?
As an artist, you have the opportunity to showcase your songs directly on your TikTok profile through the "Music Tab" feature. This guide will walk you through the steps to link your music to your TikTok Artist account and ensure your tracks are accessible to your audience on TikTok. Check out this article for a more detailed guideline.
How do I get verified on TikTok?
Anyone can apply for a Verification Badge on TikTok without any cost, but it is not guaranteed that all applications are approved. Make sure that you are aware of the guidelines and requirements to follow to get verified. You may refer to this article for a detailed guideline for getting verified on TikTok.
My song was used as "Original Sound", how can I claim it?
When browsing TikTok, you might notice that some videos use unique sounds uploaded by users, which can include snippets of music not sourced from TikTok's official music catalogue. These are known as "Original Sounds." You can identify whether a video is using an Original Sound by clicking on the sound icon located at the bottom left corner of the video. Here's a more comprehensive guideline for this.
Why won't TikTok let me promote my music?
TikTok only allows the use of their promote button for posts using sounds from their Commercial Library or an 'Original Sound'.
This is a good thing, as it stops other users from using your music to promote their business, product or service without your permission.
My TikTok video got muted, what should I do?
If you're using a TikTok business account, you might have noticed that you're unable to use music or sound clips in your videos. This is due to the specific licensing restrictions associated with business accounts on the platform. However, you have the option to switch to a personal account if you wish to use a broader range of sounds and music in your content.
Additionally, keep your videos under one minute. Although TikTok now allows uploads of videos longer than one minute, music distributed via Record Union is not currently available for these extended videos due to licensing constraints.