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In a heartening turn of events for Spanish figure skater Tomas-Llorenc Guarino Sabate, the path to performing his Minions-themed short programme at the Milan Cortina Olympics has become clearer. Following recent discussions, Sabate announced that he has successfully obtained the necessary approvals for three out of four music cuts required for his routine. The only remaining piece is Pharrell Williams’ “Freedom,” and although complications persist due to label restrictions, the artist has shown willingness to assist.
Challenges in Securing Music Permissions
During a practice session early on Thursday, Sabate expressed optimism about his upcoming performance, held in the near-empty Milano Ice Skating Arena. His programme, featuring laughter from the beloved Minions, is a lively tribute to the film franchise. However, the road to this moment was fraught with hurdles. After initially believing he had secured all the necessary rights through the ClicknClear system, Universal Studios intervened last Friday, requesting further details on both the music and Sabate’s vibrant blue-and-yellow outfit.
The situation escalated to the point where Sabate contemplated reverting to last year’s routine, set to Bee Gees music. The challenge? He had already used that piece for his free skate this season. “Then people started sharing, reposting, sending so much support and love to me,” Sabate recounted, acknowledging the overwhelming support he received from fans. Following a flurry of messages, he was informed that Universal had reconsidered its stance, granting him rights to two of the required pieces.
The Evolving Landscape of Music Rights in Figure Skating
The complexities surrounding music rights in figure skating have evolved dramatically over the years. For a long time, skaters relied on classical music and other public domain pieces, avoiding the need for permissions. However, the landscape shifted in 2014 when the International Skating Union (ISU) began allowing lyrical music. This change has not come without its challenges, as highlighted during the 2022 Beijing Olympics when indie artist objections prompted legal disputes that ultimately led the ISU to implement stricter guidelines for securing music rights.
Sabate’s struggles are not isolated. Belgian skater Loena Hendrickx, a two-time world medalist, recently faced similar issues. After performing to “Ashes” by Celine Dion, her team became concerned that the music would not be cleared for Olympic use. Consequently, Hendrickx has transitioned to a new routine featuring “I Surrender,” also by Dion, which is part of ClicknClear’s licensed catalogue.
ISU’s Commitment to Streamlining the Approval Process
The ISU acknowledges the confusion and anxiety that surround music rights. “We don’t want athletes to be worried about the music,” stated ISU president Jae Youl Kim. He highlighted the complexities of rights ownership, noting that a single piece of music can be held by multiple entities. As a response, the ISU is engaging directly with major music labels to find solutions that protect young athletes while ensuring their creative expression is not stifled.
The ongoing discussions aim to simplify the process for skaters, allowing them to focus on their performances rather than the legal intricacies of music permissions.
Why it Matters
The evolving nature of music rights in figure skating is not just a logistical issue; it affects the artistic freedom and preparation of skaters like Sabate and Hendrickx. As the sport continues to embrace lyrical music, the ISU’s commitment to resolving these issues is crucial. By fostering a more supportive environment for athletes, the governing body can ensure that the focus remains on the artistry and athleticism that make figure skating a captivating spectacle. The efforts to streamline music rights not only enhance the experience for competitors but also enrich the viewing experience for fans worldwide.
