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Gymnasts, Figure Skaters, and Other Artistic Athletes Are Up Against an Unlikely Foe

The article from Slate discusses the complex issue of music copyright infringement in figure skating and other artistic Olympic sports. It highlights how skaters and gymnasts often use popular music in their routines, which can lead to copyright disputes. The piece explains that while these athletes might not directly profit from the music, the exposure can significantly benefit the music's copyright holders through increased streams and sales. However, the use of music without explicit permission can still result in legal challenges, as seen in cases where athletes have been asked to pay royalties or change their routines. The article also touches on the nuances of copyright law, the role of licensing agencies like ASCAP and BMI, and how these issues are navigated differently in various countries. It concludes by noting the ongoing tension between artistic expression in sports and the legal rights of music creators, suggesting that clearer guidelines or agreements might be necessary to resolve these conflicts.

Read the Full Slate Article at:
[ https://slate.com/business/2024/11/figure-skating-music-copyright-infringement-gymnastics-artistic-olympic-sports.html ]