Add Row 
Add 
Amber Glenn Resolves Copyright Concerns at the Winter Olympics
In a unique twist at the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan, U.S. figure skater Amber Glenn has successfully resolved copyright issues surrounding her choice of music for her routine. The song in question, 'The Return,' by Canadian artist Seb McKinnon—who performs under the name CLANN—had been used without explicit permission. Glenn's performance contributed significantly to Team USA's victory in the figure skating team event, where she celebrated alongside her teammates, donning her well-deserved gold medal.
The Complexities of Music Copyright in Figure Skating
Figure skaters are required to secure copyright permissions for the music used in their performances, a process that can often prove confusing and fraught with complications. Glenn expressed her relief at smoothing out concerns with McKinnon, indicating that misunderstandings can stem from the intricate nature of music licensing in sports. This situation serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of artistic expression in competitive fields like figure skating, especially since the International Skating Union (ISU) eased regulations back in 2014, opening the door to contemporary music choices.
A Growing Friendship through Collaboration
After the initial miscommunication, Glenn and McKinnon may have turned a potentially contentious situation into an opportunity for collaboration. After McKinnon posted his surprise on social media regarding his song's unauthorized use, he quickly congratulated Glenn on her gold medal. Glenn noted, 'I’m glad we cleared things up with Seb and I look forward to collaborating with him.' This sentiment reflects a broader trend of artists and athletes finding common ground and mutual respect amidst the competitive nature of their respective crafts.
The Impact of Modern Music on Sports
As skaters increasingly opt for modern music that resonates with their personalities, the issue of copyright has become more pronounced. Artists are asserting their rights, expecting compensation for their work as athletes begin to showcase songs that define their routines and identities. This shift not only highlights the changing dynamics of sports entertainment but also emphasizes the importance of respecting artistic contributions in various industries.
Current Examples of Music Disputes Among Athletes
Glenn is not the only skater navigating these waters during the Olympics. Other athletes, like Spanish skater Tomas-Llorenc Guarino Sabate, narrowly obtained permission for his program after weeks of uncertainty regarding rights to use music from the animated film 'Minions.' In another case, Russian skater Petr Gumennik had to switch his music just days before competition due to similar licensing issues. Such instances underline the precarious nature of music rights in a competitive setting.
Amber Glenn: A Voice for Change
Aside from her athletic prowess, Amber Glenn has also been an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using her platform to address important social issues. Her comments about the challenges the queer community faces in today’s political climate have sparked both support and backlash. Glenn expressed her disappointment in the negative reactions she encountered, stating, 'I was disappointed because I’ve never had so many people wish me harm before, just for being me.' Despite these challenges, she continues to promote acceptance and decency, reinforcing her role as not just an athlete, but a significant voice for change.
The Road Ahead for Amber Glenn
With the gold medal already around her neck, Glenn is poised to compete in the individual events beginning February 17. The combination of her Olympic success and advocacy efforts has created a unique narrative that captivates fans both on and off the ice. As she prepares for the upcoming challenges, the spotlight is now on her journey, which bridges the worlds of sportsmanship and artistic expression.
Amber Glenn’s story serves as a reminder that complexities exist behind the glittering performance of figure skating. As disputes over copyright continue to arise, both athletes and artists must navigate the space between the arenas of sports and music carefully. Demonstrating respect for artistic rights is critical, ensuring that figure skating remains a discipline not only defined by its elegance and skill but by its collaborative spirit.
Write A Comment