A number of YouTube videos featuring music from artists such as Adele, Green Day, Bob Dylan, Nirvana, and R.E.M. have been unplayable in the United States since Saturday. In statements to the press and on social media,

Songs from popular artists have begun to disappear from YouTube as the platform’s deal with the performing rights organization SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers) approaches its expiration date.

Many hit songs are missing from YouTube and YouTube Music as it negotiates a new deal with the performing rights organization SESAC.