What began as a safe haven for bedroom DJs and spontaneous livestreamed sets during the pandemic is now facing a dramatic shift. As of July 2025, TikTok LIVE has implemented new music Terms of Service (ToS) that are driving DJs off the platform in search of alternatives.
TikTok’s New Rules Target Remixes, Edits, and Samples
The updated TikTok Music Terms of Service now prohibit users from altering copyrighted music or using standalone audio in their livestreams — a move that strikes at the heart of DJ culture.
According to the revised ToS, streamers must:
“Own all rights and permissions” to the music featured on LIVE.
This means any samples, bootlegs, edits, or remixes—even those created by the DJs themselves—could violate the rules unless every rights holder has granted explicit permission. For most independent artists and underground creators, this is an unrealistic standard.
A Platform Built on Music, Now Restricting It
This policy shift is particularly jarring given TikTok’s explosive growth during the pandemic, largely fueled by music trends, dance challenges, and live DJ sessions. The spontaneity and creative freedom once encouraged on TikTok LIVE are now being replaced with legal roadblocks and potential permanent bans for violations.
The ToS page now states:
“If you’re a Commercial User and you upload an Original Sound to your video, you confirm that (i) you own all the rights to the music included in the video; or (ii) the music is otherwise permitted by law; or (iii) you have permission from all necessary rights holders to use the Original Sound on the Platform.”
DJs Sound the Alarm — and Leave
While TikTok has not issued a public statement on the backlash, the electronic music community is already responding. DJs across the platform are warning followers that streaming altered tracks could result in account suspensions or bans.
As a result, many are making the switch to Twitch, a platform known for its stronger music licensing infrastructure and more creator-friendly livestreaming policies.
What This Means for the Future of Music Livestreams
TikTok hasn’t banned music livestreams outright, but the barrier to legal compliance is high. Unless TikTok revises its policies or provides a licensing solution tailored for DJs, its days as a go-to hub for live DJ sets may be numbered.