SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers), the second oldest Performing Rights organization in the U.S. has announced that it has reached an agreement with YouTube to ensure equitable compensation for its songwriters and publishers. The deal comes after a period of tension in which YouTube had unilaterally removed some of SESAC’s affiliates’ works ahead of the contract’s scheduled end date of October 1, 2024.
Scott Jungmichel, President & COO of SESAC Performing Rights, expressed gratitude for the patience of SESAC affiliates and the support of artists impacted by the removals. “We have reached an agreement with YouTube to equitably compensate SESAC’s songwriters and publishers for the use of their music. We appreciate the support and patience of our affiliates, as well as the artists who perform those songs,” said Jungmichel in a statement released today.
The premature removal of content had caused a stir among music fans and SESAC members, many of whom depend on YouTube as a key distribution platform.
In particular, a viral conspiracy theory on TikTok claims that J. Cole’s 2013 song “She Knows” hints at Beyoncé’s last name, “Knowles.” Fans have focused on a lyric referencing the deaths of Aaliyah, Left Eye, and Michael Jackson, interpreting it as an insinuation of involvement from Beyoncé, Diddy, and Jay-Z.
To compound the issue, on September 29, DJ Akademiks reported in a since deleted tweet that Roc Nation may have issued a DMCA takedown notice for “She Knows,” which fans argue makes them appear guilty. Reactions on social media range from humor to suspicion, with some users pointing out that the song’s removal could be linked to a legal dispute between YouTube and SESAC, rather than the conspiracy theory.
YouTube also confirmed on Monday that they have reached a deal with SESAC-protected music for U.S. audiences saying, If you’re in the United States, we’re happy to share that YouTube has reached a deal with SESAC. Content (that was previously blocked) will be restored across YouTube services over the next day or two. We appreciate all your patience.”
SESAC, owned by The Blackstone Group confirms that their over 30,000 affiliates’ works were removed ahead of schedule, prompting immediate negotiations with YouTube to rectify the situation.
As part of the new agreement, YouTube has begun reinstating videos featuring the affected songs. This decision is expected to restore revenue streams for SESAC-affiliated songwriters and performers while setting a precedent for future negotiations between rights organizations and digital platforms.
SESAC currently licenses the public performance of songwriters, composers, and music publishers, a group that includes Burna Boy, YG, Kendrick Lamar, Adele, Nicky Jam and more.
