TikTok and CapCut Distribution Overview
When you select TikTok in your distribution platform list, InterSpace delivers your music to:
- TikTok: as a licensed sound available in TikTok's music library for video creators
- CapCut: TikTok's video editing app, which shares the same music library
Once your music is live, any TikTok user can use your song as the soundtrack to their video, potentially creating a viral moment.
How Long Does TikTok Delivery Take?
TikTok delivery typically takes 5 to 10 business days from submission. It can take slightly longer than Spotify and Apple Music because TikTok runs additional content checks on audio files.
Why Is My Music Not Searchable on TikTok?
Even after your music is delivered, it may take an additional 5 to 10 days to become searchable in TikTok's sound library. This is a known delay on TikTok's side and is not something InterSpace can speed up.
To find your music on TikTok:
- Open TikTok and tap the + (create video) button.
- Tap Add Sound.
- Search for your artist name or track title.
How Long Until My Music Appears in TikTok's Sound Library?
After your release is approved and marked Live by InterSpace, TikTok processes the delivery independently on their end. The typical timeline is:
- 3 to 7 business days for your track to appear in TikTok's sound search library.
- Up to 14 days in some cases during high-volume periods.
Your release appearing on Spotify or Apple Music does not mean TikTok has finished processing it. Each platform ingests deliveries on its own schedule.
Why Your Song May Not Be Showing on TikTok Even Though It Is Live Elsewhere
- Delivery was blocked by a fingerprint match. If your dashboard shows "UGC Delivery Paused" or an audio fingerprint warning, TikTok delivery is on hold. See My Release Was Paused for an Audio Fingerprint / Content Match.
- You are on the free plan. TikTok requires a paid Artist Plan or above. Free plan releases are not delivered to TikTok. See Free Plan: Which Streaming Platforms Does Your Music Reach?
- TikTok is still processing. If it has been fewer than 7 business days since your release went Live, wait a few more days before raising a support ticket.
- Your release date was set in the future. TikTok processes the delivery starting from the release date, not the approval date.
When to Raise a Support Ticket
Contact support if:
- Your release has been Live on InterSpace for more than 14 calendar days and still does not appear in TikTok's sound library.
- Your dashboard shows TikTok as a selected platform but there is no delivery confirmation.
In your ticket, include the release title, artist name, UPC code, and the date your release was approved.
How Do I Make My Music Go Viral on TikTok?
TikTok virality starts with your own content:
- Post videos using your own sound: this seeds it in the algorithm and makes it easier for others to discover and use
- Create a challenge or trend: give fans a reason to use your sound
- Use a distinctive hook: the part of the song most likely to go viral is usually the first 15 seconds of the most memorable hook
- Engage with videos that use your sound: duet, stitch, or comment on videos that use your track
TikTok Royalties
When TikTok users add your music to their videos, you earn synchronisation royalties. These are collected by InterSpace and included in your monthly royalty statement under "TikTok/ByteDance". The rate varies but is generally modest per video; volume and virality are what make TikTok royalties significant.
What If My Music Is Flagged or Removed by TikTok?
TikTok may flag or restrict music that:
- Contains content that violates TikTok Community Guidelines
- Is marked as explicit and restricted in certain territories
- Has a rights dispute or conflicting claim
If your music is restricted on TikTok, contact InterSpace support with your release details and we will liaise with TikTok to investigate.