American figure skater Amber Glenn, who recently celebrated a gold medal victory in the team event at the Winter Olympics, is now navigating a complex web of controversy involving music copyright and social media threats. Following her comments on LGBTQ+ rights during a pre-Olympics press conference, Glenn has found herself at the centre of heated discussions both on and off the ice.
Music Copyright Dilemma
The situation unfolded when Canadian artist Seb McKinnon, known professionally as CLANN, expressed discontent over the use of his song “The Return” in Glenn’s free skate routine. McKinnon revealed on social media that Glenn had performed to his track without obtaining the necessary permissions, a requirement for athletes competing at the Olympics.
“So just found out an Olympic figure skater used one of my songs without permission for their routine. It aired all over the world… what? Is that usual practice for the Olympics?” McKinnon posted on X, shortly after the team competition concluded.
While figure skaters are indeed required to secure rights for their chosen music, the process can be intricate. Copyright ownership often involves multiple entities, including record labels and artists, making it challenging for skaters like Glenn to navigate the legal landscape. The involvement of companies such as ClicknClear, aimed at simplifying these permissions, highlights the complexities surrounding intellectual property in the sport.
Social Media Threats and Activism
In addition to the copyright issue, Glenn’s outspoken advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights has led to a barrage of threats on social media. During a press conference prior to the Games, she remarked that the queer community is facing a “hard time” under the current political climate in the United States.
“I was disappointed because I’ve never had so many people wish me harm before, just for being me and speaking about being decent—human rights and decency,” Glenn said, donning an LGBTQ+ pin during the medal ceremony. She expressed that the negative responses diminished her excitement for the Olympic experience.
This is not Glenn’s first encounter with controversy; she has been a vocal figure in the LGBTQ+ community for years, championing rights and visibility in sports. Her remarks resonate amid ongoing debates about inclusivity and acceptance, especially in a politically charged environment.
Historical Context of Copyright in Figure Skating
Historically, copyright infringements in figure skating were rare, largely due to the International Skating Union’s (ISU) ban on vocal music. However, since the rules were relaxed in 2014, allowing skaters to use contemporary tracks, the demand for compensation from artists has surged. This shift has led to increased scrutiny over music licensing in the sport.
The issue garnered significant attention during the 2022 Beijing Olympics when American pairs skaters Alexa Knierim and Brandon Frazier faced a lawsuit regarding a cover song they used in their routine. The subsequent outcry prompted the ISU to implement measures aimed at helping skaters avoid copyright violations.
“It’s never been an issue and then suddenly it is, and I don’t understand why,” Glenn commented, reflecting on the evolving dynamics of music use in figure skating. “It just feels like a cash grab for different companies, and it’s really upsetting that they can’t just appreciate that their music has inspired something creative.”
Support from the Figure Skating Community
In light of the controversies, many within the figure skating community have rallied in support of Glenn. Retired Canadian pairs skater Meagan Duhamel expressed her pride that an artist would want their music featured in a routine. “I’d be so honoured that someone wants to skate to my music and give the music some amazing exposure,” Duhamel remarked, highlighting the connection between music and athletic expression.
Alysa Liu, another member of the gold medal-winning U.S. team, emphasised the integral role of music in figure skating: “We really rely on our music. Without music, we’re not really our sport.”
Why it Matters
Amber Glenn’s experience illustrates the intersection of sports, politics, and intellectual property rights, raising significant questions about artistic expression and protection in competitive arenas. As athletes increasingly use contemporary music to enhance their performances, the need for clear guidelines and streamlined processes concerning copyright becomes paramount. Furthermore, Glenn’s advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights underscores the challenges faced by athletes who dare to speak out, revealing the harsh realities of social media and public opinion in today’s hyper-connected world. Her journey not only highlights the complexities of figure skating but also serves as a catalyst for broader discussions on inclusivity, representation, and the rights of artists in sports.
