Tori Kelly is receiving praise from fans after her song was featured in Japanese figure skater Ami’s performance at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milan. The moment sparked a wave of appreciation online, highlighting the powerful connection between music and athletic performance. The use of Kelly’s music underscores a shift in copyright practices at the Games, allowing for a wider range of musical selections than previously permitted.
The spotlight on Kelly’s music comes as figure skating enthusiasts discuss the evolving rules surrounding copyright and music choices in international competitions. Historically, securing rights for popular songs, particularly those from Disney, proved challenging for skaters. Still, the 2026 Olympics appear to be more accommodating, offering athletes greater artistic freedom in their routines. This change allows skaters to connect with audiences on a deeper level through music that resonates with them and their personal stories.
Ami’s performance, set to Tori Kelly’s music, quickly gained traction on social media platforms like Reddit, with fans expressing their delight at the pairing. The skater’s graceful movements synchronized with the song, creating a memorable moment for viewers. The International Skating Union (ISU) hosted the figure skating competition from February 6-22, 2026, at the Milano Ice Skating Arena according to the official ISU website.
Copyright Considerations in Olympic Figure Skating
The discussion surrounding music rights in figure skating often centers on the Olympics, where restrictions have historically been stricter than in other ISU-sanctioned events. The complexities of securing licenses for popular music have often led skaters to opt for instrumental pieces or lesser-known tracks. However, the 2026 Games seem to be signaling a change in approach. The ability to use songs like those by Tori Kelly, and potentially Disney tracks, represents a significant step forward for artistic expression in the sport.
The Exhibition Gala, a non-competitive showcase of figure skating artistry, is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 22nd, bringing back some of the biggest performers to the Olympic ice. NBC Chicago reports that stars like Alysa Liu, Ilia Malinin, Amber Glenn, Madison Chock, and Evan Bates are expected to participate. This event provides skaters with “pure artistic freedom,” allowing them to showcase their creativity without the pressure of competition.
The ISU and the Future of Figure Skating Performances
The International Skating Union (ISU) plays a crucial role in governing the sport and setting the standards for competitions worldwide. The ISU’s official YouTube channel provides updates and highlights from various events, including the Olympic Winter Games. The organization’s commitment to fostering artistic expression is evident in the recent changes regarding music usage, allowing skaters to explore a wider range of musical options.
The ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating series 2025-26, which serves as a preparatory stage for the Olympic Winter Games, allows top skaters to refine their routines and experiment with different musical selections. Olympics.com details that the top six skaters or teams from each discipline in the series will qualify for the Olympic Games.
Tori Kelly’s music being featured in Ami’s Olympic performance is a testament to the growing collaboration between artists and athletes. It highlights the power of music to enhance athletic performances and create unforgettable moments for audiences worldwide. As the sport continues to evolve, it’s likely that we’ll see even more innovative and artistic collaborations in the future.
The 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Games continue to deliver captivating moments, and the inclusion of diverse musical selections promises to elevate the artistry of figure skating even further. What remains to be seen is how these changes in copyright practices will influence future competitions and the creative choices of skaters around the globe.
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