Singer-songwriter Muni Long has taken to TikTok to deliver a pointed response to Universal Music Group’s decision to remove its catalog from the platform.
In a 12-second video shared on TikTok, Muni, who is signed to UMG subsidiary Def Jam, humorously addresses the situation. Standing in her bedroom, she sarcastically narrates: “Um, that song? Y’all know which one I’m talking about. Wrap it up by the weekend. I don’t want to have to say this again. Wrap it up.”
The song referenced is likely “Made for Me,” a popular R&B track by Muni that had gained traction on TikTok. The announcement of UMG’s removal from TikTok coincided with the expiration of the licensing deal between the two entities, leaving Muni’s viral hit in limbo.
Muni further commented on the situation in the caption of her post, expressing a mix of resignation and humor: “I mean it’s not like they are refusing to support my music until I prove that it’s valuable by investing my own money and possibly lucking up on a hot TikTok trend or anything like that. It’s fine. Everything’s fine. … My therapist not answering again .”
The post quickly garnered attention, amassing 1.4 million views within a day, reflecting the widespread interest in the dispute between UMG and TikTok.
In response to UMG’s decision, the label outlined its grievances with TikTok in an open letter. UMG cited concerns over fair compensation for artists and songwriters, protection from the negative effects of artificial intelligence, and online safety for users.
TikTok, in turn, criticized UMG’s withdrawal as “sad and disappointing,” accusing the label of distorting the truth and acting against the best interests of artists, songwriters, and fans.