TikTok

Half of American Adults Support Ban on TikTok, 46% Believe China Using it to Spy on United States

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Half of American Adults Support Ban on TikTok, 46% Believe China Using it to Spy on United States

A recent poll by Reuters/Ipsos reveals a divided sentiment among U.S. adults regarding the potential ban of TikTok. How surprising. Sarcasm. ByteDance, a China-based tech company, owns the popular social media app. With an ambitious law on the horizon that could effectively ban TikTok nationwide by January 2025, about half of Americans express support for the drastic measure, citing concerns over data privacy and Chinese influence.

The legislation, known as the “Protecting Americans’ Data From Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024,” signed by President Biden after receiving bipartisan support in Congress, mandates ByteDance to divest its stake in TikTok within nine months to a non-“foreign adversary” entity. That’s a bold statement, but the lawmakers are serious about this. Failure to comply would result in the app’s distribution being prohibited in America. TikTok intends to challenge the law on First Amendment grounds, but the ban may become a reality if unsuccessful. ByteDance has no plans to sell its interest in the platform.

According to the poll, approximately 50% of Americans support a TikTok ban, 32% oppose it, and 18% are undecided. Concerns about Chinese government surveillance and influence loom large, with 55% believing ByteDance utilizes TikTok to sway public opinion and 46% suspecting espionage activities by the Chinese government.

Senator Maria Cantwell has raised alarms, suggesting that TikTok and ByteDance exploit data and artificial intelligence for surveillance purposes, even targeting journalists covering the company. Past incidents, such as ByteDance firing employees for unauthorized access to TikTok data, further fuel apprehensions.

Concerns about the repercussions of a TikTok ban exist. Ninety percent of respondents believe content creators would migrate to alternative platforms, while 45% worry about adverse effects on small businesses and performing artists. Additionally, 46% fear potential infringements on free speech rights.

The Ipsos/Reuters poll, conducted from April 29-30 with a sample size of 1,022 U.S. residents aged 18 or older, highlights the complexity of public opinion on the TikTok ban issue, with a margin of sampling error of +/- 3.2 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.

Whatever happens, TikTok has become an influential staple in pop culture, but the connection to China has some people concerned, and possibly, rightfully so. 

The post Half of American Adults Support Ban on TikTok, 46% Believe China Using it to Spy on United States first appeared on The Source.

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TikTok & Universal Music Group Strike Agreement In Royalty Dispute: What We Know

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After months of negotiations, Universal Music Group (UMG) and TikTok have announced a breakthrough licensing agreement. As music technology continues to progress, this marks a significant moment in the music industry. This multi-dimensional agreement promises to benefit UMG’s extensive roster of artists, songwriters, and labels. Moreover, this also reinstates their music catalog on TikTok’s expansive platform.

Read More: Joe Biden Signs “TikTok Ban” Bill Into Law: Details

Strategic Collaboration For Mutual Benefit

The strategic collaboration aims to enhance the creative and commercial prospects of UMG’s roster. Both parties have expressed a shared commitment to leveraging TikTok’s advanced technology. Through the platform, UMG plans to enhance its marketing prowess to deliver improved remuneration for creators. As a result, they plan to enhance engagement opportunities for their music.

Fans on TikTok can anticipate the return of UMG’s extensive recorded music and publishing catalogs soon. The platform now offers them access to diverse musical content from renowned artists and songwriters. Additionally, fans can explore music from promising emerging talent. This development intends to reignite creativity among TikTok users, enabling them to create videos set to the backdrop of their favorite tracks.

Exploring New Monetization Opportunities + Online Safety Protection

umg tiktok
In this photo illustration, Universal Music Group (UMG) logo is seen on a smartphone and pc screen. (Photo Illustration by Pavlo Gonchar/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

As part of the agreement, UMG and TikTok will collaborate to explore new avenues for monetization. As issues regarding royalties became prominent, UMG and TikTok’s partnership leverages the social media platform’s e-commerce capabilities. Additionally, joint campaigns supporting UMG’s artists across various genres and territories are on the agenda. This indicates a concerted effort to maximize the commercial potential of UMG’s music catalog on the platform.

TikTok has committed to investing significant resources in developing artist-centric tools aimed at empowering UMG’s artists to thrive on the platform. These tools include features like “Add to Music App,” enhanced data analytics, and integrated ticketing capabilities, all designed to enhance artists’ financial prospects and expand their global fan base. Moreover, this new deal prioritizes stringent online safety protections for artists and their fans, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for all users.

An essential aspect of the agreement involves collaboration on responsible AI development within the music industry. Both UMG and TikTok have pledged to ensure that AI tools are developed ethically, safeguarding human creativity and the economic interests of artists and songwriters. They promised to implement measures to remove unauthorized AI-generated music from the platform, while also improving artist and songwriter attribution to uphold their rights and recognition.

Read More: Too Short Speaks On TikTok Music And Embracing The New Age Sound

Expeditious Implementation

UMG and TikTok are working swiftly to implement the terms of the agreement, with plans to reintroduce music by UMG’s artists and songwriters to TikTok in the near future. This proactive approach reflects the commitment of both parties to restoring normalcy and fostering a mutually beneficial partnership.

In conclusion, the resolution of the royalty dispute between UMG and TikTok heralds a new era of collaboration in the music industry, characterized by mutual respect, innovation, and commercial opportunity. As we witness the digital landscape’s evolution, partnerships like this are vital in ensuring the continued success and sustainability of the music ecosystem.

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TikTokers, Rejoice: UMG Artists’ Catalogs Are Returning To The Platform Under A New Licensing Agreement

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TikTok logo
Getty Image

TikTok’s future in the United States still hangs in the balance, but there is some positive TikTok-related news. (Unfortunately, it is not that Soulja Boy bought TikTok — not yet, at least.)

On Thursday morning, May 2, Universal Music Group and TikTok shared a joint press release confirming “a new multi-dimensional licensing agreement that will deliver significant industry-leading benefits for UMG’s global family of artists, songwriters, and labels and will return their music to TikTok’s billion-plus global community.”

All UMG artists’ catalogs were removed from TikTok on February 1 and remained absent from the platform, save for Taylor Swift ahead of the release of her The Tortured Poets Department album last month.

The joint agreement marks a new era of strategic collaboration between the two organizations, built on a shared commitment to help UMG’s artists and songwriters achieve their creative and commercial potential,” the press release outlines. “By harnessing TikTok’s best-in-class technology, marketing and promotional capabilities, UMG and TikTok will deliver improved remuneration for UMG’s songwriters and artists, new promotional and engagement opportunities for their recordings and songs and industry-leading protections with respect to generative AI.”

The press release additionally emphasizes a commitment to “new monetization opportunities utilizing TikTok’s growing e-commerce capabilities,” “artist-centric tools,” and “to protect human artistry.”

Beyonce Surprise Stagecoach Set Seemingly Debunked By TikToker

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Over the weekend, some of the biggest country stars in the entire genre will hit the Indio Valley. Just after Coachella wrapped up, yet another Goldenvoice festival called Stagecoach will get underway. The headliners are Eric Church, Miranda Lambert, and Morgan Wallen, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Bailey Zimmerman, Jelly Roll, and even some crossover stars like Elle King, Post Malone, and The Beach Boys will take the stage. But fans were hoping that yet another superstar might be in the mix for a performance at the festival.

Earlier this year, Beyonce released her new album COWBOY CARTER. While the project includes numerous genre experiments it is primarily an exploration of country music. So when the festival promised a secret surprise guest that nobody online knew, many fans started speculating. That caused one TikTok account called @beysus.christ to begin investigating. She went full internet detective digging through various Instagram accounts before uncovering that of a woman called Katie Alexander. Through even more digging she uncovered an old Instagram post where Alexander all but confirmed she’s the secret DJ Backwoods Barbie. Check out the post recapping her full investigation below.

Read More: Beyonce’s Shocking Vegas Residency Budget Unveiled

Beyonce May Not Be At Stagecoach After All

@beysus.christ

We lost this one Delulu Hive 😭 #beyonce #actii #cowboycarter #djbackwoodsbarbie

♬ original sound – Liittle Debbie

Beyonce fans are no joke. They delivered her the highest first week sales of any album so far in 2024 with COWBOY CARTER, though Taylor Swift is about to break it with The Tortured Poets Department. Her fans even streamed and bought the album enough for it to spend a second week on the top spot of the Billboard 200, preventing J. Cole’s mixtape Might Delete Later from debuting at number one. She also scored a number one hit earlier this year when she dropped the album’s lead single “TEXAS HOLD EM.”

What do you think of the lengths one Beyonce fan went to find out if queen Bey was making a surprise performance at Stagecoach over the weekend? Do you plan on attending the festival later this week? Let us know in the comment section below.

Read More: Beyonce’s “Drunk In Love” Turns 10

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Soulja Boy Has Fans Feeling Skeptical After Expressing Interest In Buying TikTok

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Soulja Boy is an artist who has had many of his songs go viral over the years. Overall, virality has been a massive part of the Soulja Boy brand. However, there is no doubt that there are limits to this. This is especially true with the latest news pertaining to none other than TikTok. The platform is set to be banned in the United States of the company refuses to get a new owner. Ultimately, this is a massive issue and a lot of people are upset with the government for doing this. That said, President Joe Biden has signed off on it, which means it is law.

Yesterday, Soulja Boy lamented how much he hates the decision. In the tweets collected below by DJ Akademiks, Soulja explained just how bad this precedent is. Essentially, the government can decide to ban any app at any time, if they so choose. This subsequently led to the artist saying that he would be down to go out and buy TikTok if given the opportunity. Of course, this would be a massive purchase for Soulja Boy, although one that probably isn’t affordable without an absurd loan of some sort.

Read More: Blueface Challenges Soulja Boy To A Fight

Soulja Boy Speaks

Fans noted that Soulja Boy likely doesn’t have the funds for such a purchase. “I don’t think he knows how much tiktok is worth,” one person wrote. “Bro makes so much money from tik tok hes just worry about that,” said another. Others had interesting insights about the platform and how the governments in other countries have effectively shut down American platforms. Either way, things are not looking good for TikTok right now, no matter how you swing it.

Let us know what you think about the TikTok ban and some of Soulja Boy’s plans, in the comments section down below. Do you believe that TikTok will eventually sell so it can stay in the United States? Or is it destined to fail right now? Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the music world. We will continue to keep you informed on all of your favorite artists and their upcoming projects.

Read More: Soulja Boy Apologizes To J. Cole: “Sorry For The Confusion”

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Soulja Boy Wants To Be The One To Buy TikTok: ‘How Much Y’all Want?’

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soulja boy
Getty Image

Today, in a move sure to endear him to a younger generation of voters, President Joe Biden signed a bill that requires ByteDance to sell its US-based interests in TikTok or see the app banned from cell phone marketplaces. While it has been described as a bill banning TikTok outright, it’s actually pretty vaguely written and probably more or less unenforceable as is, the equivalent of “okay, Boomer” in legal form.

But that hasn’t stopped the offers from rolling in, including a (probably facetious) one from Soulja Boy, who asked on Twitter, “How much yall want for TikTok?” declaring, “I’ll buy it.”

The “Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act” (say that five times fast) has otherwise been met with widespread criticism. From its oblique wording to its borderline hypocritical positioning — focusing on TikTok after Meta actively engaged in the promotion of phony news propaganda aimed at influencing the last election, for instance — TikTok’s user base has pointed out a number of flaws in the political strategy behind the bill. For instance, do you all remember those hilariously (terrifyingly) off-base hearings with ByteDance CEO Liang Rubo? By the way, here’s his response to all the kerfuffle:

As for Soulja Boy buying TikTok; well, that seems about as likely as his promise to create his own social media app.

Sophia Diamond Net Worth 2024: Updated Wealth Of The Influencer

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Sophia Diamond, a name that resonates with millions on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, has carved a niche for herself in the world of social media influencers. As of 2024, her estimated net worth stands at a staggering $2 million US Dollars, according to BigStarBio. But how did she amass such wealth, and what’s the story behind her success?

Born in Moscow, Russia, on August 21, 2001, Sophia Diamond’s journey to stardom began quite early. Although she spent her initial years in Russia, she moved to Israel at a young age and lived there until she was 11. Eventually, she relocated to Canada in 2012, where she currently resides. Growing up with five siblings, including a younger brother named Daniel, Sophia’s family roots trace back to Russia.

The Rise Of A Social Media Star

Sophia’s foray into the digital world began with TikTok in March 2018. Her unique blend of comedy, lip-syncs, and dance videos quickly garnered attention, propelling her to become one of the app’s most celebrated stars. With over 4.5 million followers on TikTok alone, Sophia’s influence is undeniable. Unlike many influencers, Sophia often chose to work solo, although she once collaborated with Nina Polaris for a comedy video.

Her YouTube channel, “@Sophia Diamond,” further showcases her versatility. With content ranging from self-care tips to lifestyle hacks, Sophia has managed to amass 90K subscribers. Additionally, her Instagram presence is noteworthy, boasting almost 1.2 million followers.

Financial Success & Collaborations

Sophia’s impressive net worth is a testament to her hard work and strategic collaborations. A significant portion of her earnings comes from sponsored posts and partnerships with brands like Canon IVY, Fashion Nova, and Bang Energy Drink. Her influence on TikTok and Instagram allows her to command a premium for these promotional posts.

Moreover, Sophia’s YouTube channel serves as another stream of passive income, thanks to the platform’s ad network. Beyond her social media endeavors, Sophia harbors aspirations of becoming a professional actress, hinting at the possibility of even greater financial success in the future.

Personal Life & Relationships

While Sophia’s professional life is an open book, she tends to keep her personal life private. However, it’s known that she was in a relationship with Kian Salehi in 2017. The two were often spotted together, but by 2018, signs of their relationship ending became evident. They unfollowed each other on social media platforms, and Sophia removed all pictures of Kian from her Instagram. Later, she confirmed her single status in a post.

Sophia Diamond’s journey from a young girl in Moscow to a multi-millionaire social media influencer is inspiring. Her dedication, talent, and strategic collaborations have played a pivotal role in her success. As she continues to grow her brand and explore new avenues, there’s no doubt that Sophia Diamond’s net worth will only soar higher in the coming years.

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JT Gets Creative In Overcoming TikTok & UMG Dispute

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It’s no secret that Universal Music Group’s decision to pull their music from TikTok has wreaked havoc on artists and their promotional tactics. Luckily for JT, however, she has a plan to get around it. Earlier this week, the City Girl turned solo star announced her upcoming single “Okay,” which is expected to appear on her upcoming mixtape, City Cinderella. While she’s with UMG, she doesn’t plan on letting the algorithm mute the track, getting in the way of her success.

JT took to Twitter/X yesterday to unveil her plan. Before urging social media users to pre-save her song, she told them to spread distorted versions of it across TikTok. “Remember I’m with UMG so once song is out Tik Tok will be muted,” she wrote. “So try to get a distorted sound going I have one on my Tik Tok use it if you want or make your own IDC just spread the sound.”

Read More: JT Recalls A Fan Trying To Rap Battle Her At An Afterparty: “Y’all Getting Bold.”

JT Urges Fans To “Get A Distorted Sound Going”

“Okay” is available for pre-save now, and hopefully, JT’s plan will prove to be effective. Listeners are already eager to hear the full version and think the femcee has yet another hit on her hands. It’s not the only exciting thing she has on the way, however. JT still has a few dates left on her first-ever headlining solo tour. She’s scheduled to stop in West Palm Beach, Baltimore, New York, and more in the coming weeks.

The Miami-born performer has faced some criticism for her choice of venues on the tour, namely from GloRilla during their Twitter feud earlier this month. Fortunately, it doesn’t look like she’s taken it to heart. She jokingly told a crowd this week that she hasn’t had a “wack cookout” yet. Are you looking forward to JT’s new single “Okay”? What about her plan to bypass TikTok’s dispute with UMG? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.

Read More: JT Loved Lil Uzi Vert’s Viral Coachella Dance Moves

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SZA Delivers A Pro-Palestine Message During Recent Concert

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SZA is currently one of the biggest stars in all of music, still riding the high from her 2022 album SOS. The project spawned two massive hits in “Kill Bill” and “Snooze” that shot her to the very top of the charts. “Snooze” is still hovering in the top 20 approaching it’s astonishing 70th week on the Hot 100. Her latest single “Saturn” is right there beside it having peaked at number 6 earlier this year. Now she’s listening to the requests of much of her fanbase and putting her superstar status behind a major social and political issue.

She’s currently on the international leg of her SOS Tour where she stopped in New Zealand for a three night stretch of shows. During the final night she soared through some of her biggest hits and fan-favorite songs as usual. But during a break in the music she took the opportunity to express solidarity with the people suffering in Gaza as a result of the conflict between Israel and Palestine. When she says “Free Palestine” the entire crowd erupts into a massive chorus of cheers. Check out the video of her message during the show below.

Read More: SZA’s “Kill Bill” Among Bill Nye’s Top Songs Of 2023

SZA Stands With The People In Gaza

@i0vejjk

sza says no to g3n0cid3! free falastin 🇵🇸🤍 #fyp #auckland #nz #sza #szasos #szasostour #freepalestine

♬ som original – cinnamon boy

SZA’s incredible past few years are also being recognized by some major organizations within the music industry. Later this year the Songwriters Hall Of Fame will give her a special honor during their yearly award show. She’ll become the first black woman since Alicia Keys nearly 20 years ago to win the Hal David Starlight Award from the hall.

SZA’s fans are hoping she’s hard at work on a new version of her SOS deluxe album LANA. After tracks from the project were leaked online she claimed she was re-recording an entire selection of new material. What do you think of SZA expressing her support for freeing Palestine during a recent show? Do you think her message will inspire other musicians and celebrities to do the same? Let us know in the comment section below.

Read More: What Is SZA’s Best-Selling Album?

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TikToker Kyle Marisa Roth Dead At 36: All About The Gossip Star

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The sudden and tragic passing of Kyle Marisa Roth, a beloved figure on TikTok, has sent shockwaves throughout the online community. At just 36, Roth’s untimely demise has left her legion of fans mourning the loss of a vibrant personality. She was widely known for her candid commentary on Hollywood and pop culture. Her signature opening line, “You want more? I’ll give you more,” became synonymous with her engaging and entertaining content.

Roth’s presence on TikTok, was marked by her fearless approach to discussing the inner workings of the entertainment industry. She had a penchant for stirring the pot with juicy tidbits from the celebrity world. However, she also had a knack for touching the hearts of her audience with her humorous commentary. In the wake of Roth’s passing, tributes have poured in from fans and fellow content creators alike.

Kyle Marisa Roth’s Personal Life

Not much is known about Kyle’s personal life, but she did reveal tidbits here and there. Kyle Marisa Roth was a former lacrosse player for Lehigh University, where she attended. She had also openly discussed her journey as a colon cancer survivor on X. She later showed off some of her scars in an Instagram post with the caption: “3 major abdominal surgeries. 1 reconstructive shoulder surgery. Over a dozen broken bones. One torn meniscus. Several car accidents. Even more concussions. Collegiate lacrosse. Soccer at elementary school recess. 3 missing internal organs. BUT LOTS OF BAD ASS F*CKING SCARS.”

Her Online Presence

@thekylemarisa_

#greenscreen hot #blinditems #tea #gossip #gossipgirlhere #hollywood #celebrity #joeyking #loganlerman #aarontaylorjohnson #bullettrainmovie #bullettrain #theluckyones #kissingbooth

♬ cruel summer sped up – r & m <3 ⸆⸉

Before her passing, Kyle Roth had amassed an impressive following of over 200,000 on TikTok. Known for her engaging content centered around celebrity gossip, entertainment, lifestyle, and pop culture, Roth also garnered millions of views. Her signature “celebrity blind items,” which delved into everything from rumored affairs to speculation about career decisions, further solidified her status as a prominent figure in the realm of social media. She was witty, hilarious, and of course, controversial during her TikTok run.  

Throughout her career, Kyle Marisa Roth also remained unapologetically herself. She hardly ever shied away from expressing her opinions, no matter how controversial they might have been. While some may have disagreed with her viewpoints, many admired her authenticity and admired her willingness to speak her mind. Nonetheless, it wasn’t all rosy for her on TikTok. 

Kyle Marisa Roth’s TikTok Account Ban

@thekylemarisa_

#greenscreen HELP #blinditems #tea #gossipgirlhere #gossip #hollywood #celebrity #thekylemarisa

♬ original sound – KYLE MARISA ROTH

Just a month before her demise, Kyle Roth had lost her TikTok account. She subsequently revealed that she relied heavily on the platform for her finances. In a TikTok video on her backup account, she expressed her frustration, particularly because the app was how she was able to afford her rent. Roth also urged her followers to file a complaint with the platform so that the ban would be revoked.  

“I need everyone’s help, this is an emergency, please,” she said. “It’s about to be the end of the month and this is my first month remonetized and I literally need this account in order to pay my rent because I’m so fucked.” The ban of her account was concerning Jennifer Lopez’s viral “The Bronx” controversy. Speaking to Forbes, Roth revealed that her account faced copyright strikes on every video featuring footage from The Greatest Love Story Never Told. This subsequently led to the account being permanently banned. “J Lo’s narcissism single-handedly crushed the main portion of my small business,” she said. “I didn’t even have the opportunity to download or save 4 years’ worth of my content that had been viewed over a billion times and accumulated over 50 million likes… J Lo has cost me more than 4 figures of income just for March 2024.”

Announcement Of Death

On April 15, 2024, the family of Kyle Marisa Roth announced her passing. They did not disclose the cause of death. Jacquie Cohen Roth, her mother, shared a message on LinkedIn. She wrote: “This is not a platform for personal life shares but so many of my connections on this platform go back years and I have a devastating loss to share. My daughter Kyle has passed away. She touched some of your lives personally and some of your lives via her immense life on another platform. Kyle loved and lived fiercely. Nothing makes sense now and we’ll understand more in the next few days. Be Kind to one another, please.”

Roth’s sister, Lindsay, also confirmed her passing in an Instagram post. “We don’t know what happened yet. I know she touched so many people with her humor, intelligence, beauty, gossip activism, athleticism, and more – she had so many gifts. If anyone wants to connect about Kyle, I’m here to talk and share memories.”

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