What's Happening?
U.S. figure skating star Amber Glenn encountered a music rights issue during her performance at the Winter Olympics. Glenn used the song 'The Return' by Canadian artist Seb McKinnon, who performs under the name CLANN, without obtaining prior permission. McKinnon expressed his surprise and concern over the unauthorized use of his music on social media, questioning whether such practices are common in the Olympics. Glenn, who has been performing to this song for two years, acknowledged the oversight and expressed her intention to resolve the matter amicably. She stated that the music rights process can be complex and prone to errors. The Associated Press reported that several skaters at the Milan Cortina Games faced similar challenges, having
to change their programs at the last minute due to music rights issues.
Why It's Important?
This incident highlights the complexities and potential pitfalls of music rights management in international sporting events. The situation underscores the importance of clear communication and proper licensing in the use of creative works, especially on global platforms like the Olympics. For artists like McKinnon, unauthorized use of their work can lead to loss of control over their creations and potential financial implications. For athletes, such disputes can disrupt their performances and preparation. The resolution of this issue between Glenn and McKinnon sets a precedent for future collaborations and emphasizes the need for stringent adherence to copyright laws in sports.
What's Next?
Following the resolution of the dispute, both Glenn and McKinnon have expressed a desire to collaborate in the future. This incident may prompt Olympic organizers and athletes to review and tighten their music rights protocols to prevent similar issues. It could also lead to increased awareness and education about copyright laws among athletes and their teams. Stakeholders in the sports and music industries might advocate for clearer guidelines and support systems to ensure compliance and protect the rights of creators.
