Official music videos have been unblocked on YouTube in the UK after it reached an agreement with songwriters’ group PRS for Music.

Official music videos have been unblocked on YouTube in the UK after it reached an agreement with songwriters’ group PRS for Music.

Back in March this year, the service blocked thousands of music videos to UK users after failing to reach agreement over fees, however YouTube is now paying an undisclosed lump sum to PRS, backdated until January and lasting until 2012.

As a result of the agreement, the songwriters, composers and music publisher members that PRS for Music represents will be rewarded when their music is used.

Andrew Shaw, Managing Director of Broadcast and Online at PRS for Music commented:  “It is important that those who are creating music – the writers and composers we represent – be rewarded when their works are used. YouTube is a popular online video destination, and this new licence continues to support musical talent. This is an achievement for songwriters, composers and the YouTube community alike and it reinforces the value of our members’ work.”

Patrick Walker, YouTube’s Director of Video Partnerships said: “We are dedicated to establishing and fostering relationships that make YouTube a place where existing fans and new audiences can discover their favourite content – whatever it might be.

“We are extremely pleased to have reached an agreement with PRS for Music and look forward to the return of premium music videos to YouTube in the UK where they will join a variety of other content to be enjoyed by our British users.”