US Figure Skater Amber Glenn Settles Music Dispute with Canadian Artist for 2026 Olympics
Amber Glenn, the U.S. figure skater, has successfully resolved her music dispute with Canadian artist Seb McKinnon. This conflict arose over the use of McKinnon’s song, “The Return,” during Glenn’s free skate at the Olympic team event. The resolution highlights the growing challenges related to music rights in figure skating.
Background of the Dispute
McKinnon, known for his music under the name CLANN, publicly expressed surprise regarding the song’s use. His social media comments questioned whether Glenn had secured the necessary permissions for the track. After Glenn’s performance, he congratulated her on her team gold medal, and both parties later deemed the situation a misunderstanding.
Complex Music Rights Issues
Glenn has skated to “The Return” for approximately two seasons without prior objections. The exact cause of the misunderstanding remains unclear, though it appears to stem from systemic issues in the music clearance process. Skaters often rely on support from federations and event organizers to handle music rights, but complications can still arise, particularly as the sport shifts towards contemporary music.
Similar Cases in the Sport
This situation is not unique. Spanish skater Tomàs-Llorenç Guarino Sabaté recently faced a similar issue. Initially, his use of music from the Minions franchise in his short program was not cleared for competition. Following public support and direct communication with Universal Studios, he obtained the necessary permissions to keep his routine.
Broader Implications for Athletes
The challenges related to music rights in figure skating are emblematic of broader issues within the music industry. Rights are frequently divided among multiple holders, complicating the clearance process for global broadcasts and streaming.
Glenn’s Advocacy and Focus
Throughout the Olympics, Amber Glenn has also emerged as a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Following her pre-Games remarks about the pressures facing queer communities, she experienced backlash, including hate messages. Despite this, Glenn continues to represent her identity through visible LGBTQ+ symbols on her gear.
Glenn is set to compete next in the women’s singles event, starting with the short program on February 17. She emphasizes a commitment to performance, focusing on her competition rather than any surrounding controversy.
