Tech Desk 
Sep 29, 2024
A recent licensing dispute between YouTube and SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers) has resulted in the removal of numerous songs from YouTube and YouTube Music in the US.
However, due to an expired licensing agreement, this disruption would be affecting the users who can no longer access their favourite tracks.
What’s SESAC and its role?
SESAC is a performance rights organisation representing songwriters and publishers. Its repertoire therefore includes more than 1.5 million copyrighted musical works, public performance rights, and affiliates that include Adele, R.E.M., and Bob Dylan.
The organisation offers blanket license agreements for the authorisation of public performance.
Those operating YouTube Music in the US will find an error message when they attempt to play affected songs, marked with an exclamation mark.
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A fullscreen on the YouTube Music features an error message that reads, "Song unavailable — this video contains content from SESAC. It is not available in your country."
On main YouTube, users can open music videos, but the same error appears in the player. Impacted albums are available on artist pages, while songs are unavailable.
"We have held good faith negotiations with SESAC to renew our existing deal. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we were unable to reach an equitable agreement before its expiration. We take copyright very seriously and, as a result, content represented by SESAC is no longer available on YouTube in the US. We are in active conversations with SESAC and are hoping to reach a new deal as soon as possible." YouTube spokesperson stated.
Licensing disputes are typically associated with YouTube TV and cable providers. However, this SESAC issue highlights the complexities of music licensing agreements.
