A number of popular YouTube videos featuring music from renowned artists like Adele, Green Day, Bob Dylan, Nirvana, and R.E.M. have become unplayable in the United States since Saturday. Users attempting to access iconic tracks such as Bob Dylan’s “Like A Rolling Stone” are greeted with the message: “This video contains content from SESAC. It is not available in your country.” In some cases, ads play before the video is blocked.
Interestingly, not all videos from these artists are affected, and it remains unclear whether the playable ones are exempt from the current dispute or simply overlooked.
The cause of the blockage stems from failed negotiations between YouTube and SESAC, a performing rights organization that represents over 35,000 music artists and publishers. In a statement, YouTube explained the situation, saying, “Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we were unable to reach an equitable agreement before its expiration. As a result, content represented by SESAC is no longer available on YouTube in the US. We are actively working to reach a new deal.”
This scenario mirrors a similar situation earlier in the year when Universal Music Group pulled tracks from artists like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish off TikTok amid royalty negotiations.
SESAC, unlike record labels, functions as a collection agency for songwriters and publishers, akin to ASCAP and BMI. In addition to the artists affected, SESAC also represents big names such as Burna Boy, George Clinton, and Kings of Leon.
As negotiations continue, users are left hoping for a quick resolution to restore access to their favorite music on YouTube. Stay tuned for updates.
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