DJs are increasingly leaving TikTok Live in response to significant changes in the platform’s terms of service. As of July 2023, the updated policies restrict users from altering copyrighted music, which has serious implications for DJs who rely on mixing songs during their performances.
The revised TikTok Music Terms of Service now require users to own full rights to any songs or audio they use. This change makes it challenging for many DJs to share their mixes, as obtaining rights for popular tracks can be nearly impossible for those not working in professional studios. The new rules have sparked concerns among artists about the sustainability of their presence on the platform.
DJ Lost One, known as @djlostone on TikTok, expressed his frustration with the recent updates and announced his intention to focus on livestreaming through Twitch, a platform popular among gamers and content creators. He cautioned his followers, saying, “You can lose Live access [if you stream music]. Please don’t risk it.” His sentiments reflect a growing sentiment among DJs who feel that TikTok’s music policy has become untenable for their artistic expression.
Many users took to the comments section to voice their disappointment. One user noted that TikTok originally attracted a vibrant community of musicians, stating, “That’s crazy to me because this app used to be only about music.” Another commented on the platform’s shift, saying, “It’s becoming Home Shopping Network. So sad, this was a beautiful app for people to unite, especially over music.”
Despite the new restrictions, some DJs are exploring creative ways to adapt. A commenter mentioned that it is still possible to use music in the background while speaking over it. Others highlighted that DJs could continue to stream live from venues, where the venue typically holds the rights to the music played.
The ongoing situation has left the DJ community divided. While some are choosing to abandon TikTok Live altogether, others remain hopeful about finding workarounds. The Daily Dot has reached out to DJ Lost One for further commentary and will continue to monitor the reactions from DJs as they navigate these new rules.
As TikTok evolves, the fate of its user-generated music content remains uncertain, raising questions about how artists will adapt in an environment that increasingly prioritizes copyright compliance over creative expression.