Can artists block the government from using their music in controversial TikToks, or do platform rules make that difficult?

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Yes, artists can try to stop it, but TikTok’s licensing system and copyright rules can make the answer highly fact-specific. If the White House used songs through TikTok’s in-app licensed library, the platform may already have a deal covering some uses on TikTok itself. That can make an immediate copyright claim harder than in cases where music was uploaded without authorization. But availability in the app does not automatically mean every use is cleared. TikTok’s own policies distinguish between personal and commercial or institutional use, and outside experts note that organizations, including government agencies, may not be covered the same way ordinary users are. Artists still have several tools. Rights holders can file takedown requests with TikTok, which uses automated audio detection and manual reporting systems. They can also send cease-and-desist letters or sue for copyright infringement if they believe the use was unlicensed. In some political music disputes, artists and estates have won removals, injunctions, or settlements. A separate issue is whether the videos changed lyrics on screen or paired the songs with a message the artists reject. That does not automatically create a legal claim, but it can strengthen arguments around unauthorized use, false endorsement, or other rights depending on the facts. Fair use is possible in theory, but it is not a simple shield. Songs are highly protected creative works, and promotional social videos are not the kind of use c…

White House Uses Drake, Bad Bunny Songs in 2 TikToks Promoting Deportations

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White House Uses Drake, Bad Bunny Songs in 2 TikToks Promoting Deportations

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