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In a dramatic turn of events, six-time Spanish figure skating champion Tomàs Guarino Sabaté made a triumphant Olympic debut adorned as a yellow Minion, delighting spectators with his vibrant short programme. However, this moment nearly slipped away due to a last-minute copyright issue that nearly derailed his performance. This incident highlights the growing complications surrounding music rights in the world of figure skating, a sport increasingly intertwined with popular music.
Sabaté’s Minion Moment Almost Missed
Sabaté, known for his charismatic routines, faced a significant obstacle just days before the Olympic Games commenced. He was informed that he could not perform his Minion-themed routine because of a licensing dispute linked to his chosen music. The situation quickly escalated when he took to social media to share his plight, prompting a wave of public support. The backlash was so intense that Universal Pictures eventually granted him permission to proceed with his performance.
This isn’t an isolated incident. American skater Amber Glenn also recently encountered copyright issues when Canadian artist Seb McKinnon expressed concerns that she had used his music without authorization. Thankfully, both parties managed to reach an agreement, but the episode underscores the increasing complexity of music rights in figure skating—a sport that has long relied on a diverse musical palette.
The Evolving Landscape of Music Rights in Figure Skating
Traditionally, figure skaters have performed to classical music, much of which resides in the public domain. However, changes implemented by the International Skating Union (ISU) in 2014 allowed skaters to use music with lyrics, aiming to modernise the sport and enhance its entertainment value. But this shift has introduced a myriad of complications, particularly concerning copyright.
A notable incident occurred during the last Winter Olympics in Beijing when the Heavy Young Heathens, musicians Robert and Aron Marderosian, took legal action against American pairs skaters Alexa Knierim and Brandon Frazier for alleged copyright infringement regarding their rendition of “House of the Rising Sun.” Although the matter was quickly resolved, it raised critical questions about the responsibilities of skaters in securing music rights.
The ISU’s Stance on Copyright Compliance
In light of these incidents, the ISU has acknowledged that navigating copyright clearances can be challenging for athletes. A spokesperson noted that the growing awareness of rights issues has placed additional scrutiny on the use of copyrighted music in artistic sports. The responsibility for acquiring the necessary permissions largely falls on the skaters themselves, and the ISU is committed to supporting their creative expression.
Sabaté asserted that he had followed all the appropriate channels, submitting his music via the ISU-approved licensing platform ClicknClear. However, the ISU clarified that it does not have a direct contractual relationship with this licensing service, leaving skaters to navigate the complexities of copyright law independently.
Glenn and McKinnon’s Resolution
Glenn’s complications arose when McKinnon, known for his work under the name CLANN, discovered that she had performed to one of his tracks during the figure skating Team Event, which contributed to the United States’ gold medal achievement. His initial response on social media expressed surprise and frustration about the lack of permission, igniting a dialogue that resonated widely.
Ultimately, Glenn’s team reached out to McKinnon, leading to a swift resolution that allowed her to continue using his music. McKinnon expressed no ill will towards Glenn, stating that he wished her the best in her Olympic journey. In turn, Glenn expressed her gratitude for McKinnon’s recognition of her performance, emphasising her excitement for future collaboration.
Why it Matters
The complexities surrounding music rights in figure skating are not just an administrative headache; they have broader implications for artistic expression in sports. As figure skating continues to evolve and embrace contemporary music, the challenges of copyright compliance are likely to persist. This ongoing struggle not only affects the athletes’ performances but also highlights the need for clearer frameworks to protect artists’ rights while allowing skaters to showcase their creativity. The resolution of these issues is crucial for the future of the sport, ensuring that both skaters and musicians can thrive in an increasingly interconnected environment.
