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Figure skating music list. We also introduce pieces that colored the masterpieces of pairs!

Have you ever paid attention to the music when enjoying figure skating and ice dance performances more deeply?When skaters weave a story on the ice, it is ultimately the power of music that supports their worldbuilding.In pairs and ice dance, the music is often chosen so you can almost feel the two skaters’ breathing in sync, while in solo programs, a striking melody can instantly draw the entire arena in—the impression can change completely with a single piece.In this article, we’ll introduce a wide range of music used in figure skating.As you picture the athletes performing, try savoring the music anew!

List of music used in figure skating. We also introduce pieces that colored unforgettable pair performances! (71–80)

Underneath the StarsMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – Underneath the Stars (Official Music Video)
Underneath the StarsMariah Carey

Since 2014, the use of pop music has been permitted in figure skating.

“Underneath the Stars” is a classic by Mariah Carey, rendered as an exquisitely sweet R&B track.

While it hasn’t been used in competition programs, it has been featured in ice dance, and it pairs exceptionally well with sultry performances by female skaters.

For those who love the quintessentially sweet R&B of the 1990s and 2000s, this song will land squarely in your strike zone.

Merry Christmas Mr. LawrenceSakamoto Ryuichi

sakamoto MerryChristmasMrLawrence 5994i youtube
Merry Christmas Mr. LawrenceSakamoto Ryuichi

At the 2022 Grand Prix Series event in Finland, Mai Mihara performed to Ryuichi Sakamoto’s “Merry Christmas, Mr.

Lawrence,” a piece by a Japanese composer renowned worldwide.

It is the main theme of the 1983 film Merry Christmas, Mr.

Lawrence and won the BAFTA Award for Best Original Music.

This famous piano instrumental blends a Japanese-style melody with an oriental atmosphere.

The piece was also performed at the much-discussed livestream concert held in December 2022.

Smooth Criminal2CELLOS

2CELLOS – Smooth Criminal [OFFICIAL VIDEO]
Smooth Criminal2CELLOS

This is 2CELLOS’s “Smooth Criminal,” performed by the cello duo.

It’s a cover of Michael Jackson, the King of Pop.

It was also the piece used for a duet by Rika Kihira and Mikhail Kolyada at the 2019 Nagoya performance.

It’s a cool track that perfectly matches their stylish performances.

Figure skating program music list: Introducing pieces that colored memorable pair performances as well! (81–90)

Bennie And The JetsElton John

Elton John – Bennie And The Jets (Official Music Video)
Bennie And The JetsElton John

This is Elton John’s 1973 release “Bennie and the Jets.” It’s a fun track that makes you feel like you’re in a live music club.

Nathan Chen delivered some dazzling footwork to this song.

Fully showcasing the athleticism of a former gymnast, he earned high marks.

Heaven and EarthTomita Isao

From 'Heaven and Earth' Opening Theme ~ The Army of Kai ~ Winter in Echigo
Heaven and EarthTomita Isao

Speaking of Yuzuru Hanyu, it’s still fresh in our memories that he attempted a quadruple axel at the 2022 Beijing Olympics.

The piece he used then was “Ten to Chi to” (Heaven and Earth).

It’s a composition by Isao Tomita, created as the theme song for a historical Taiga drama of the same name.

It begins with an intro that samples horse whinnies, then shifts into an atmosphere of tension evocative of the Warring States period.

In the latter half, the sound of the biwa is added, giving it an elegant finish.

This dramatic shift in musical tone may well be one of the reasons it was chosen.

The Battle DrumsHisaishi Joe

Composed solely of percussion, the lively yet powerful piece “The Battle Drums” lives up to its Japanese title, “Tatakai no Taiko.” It’s a track from the Studio Ghibli film Princess Mononoke.

Latvian figure skater Deniss Vasiļjevs used it during the 2021 and 2022 seasons, captivating many with its valiant atmosphere.

Given Deniss’s fondness for Japan, the choice makes perfect sense.

Still… who knew a drums-only piece could be this cool? Joe Hisaishi truly is remarkable.

In Praise of AutumnRaul Di Blasio

The piece used in Yuzuru Hanyu’s short program during the 2018–2019 season, when he achieved the highest score under the revised rules.

The composer, Mr.

Brasio, is from Argentina and began his studies with Latin music such as tango and bossa nova.

He is a globally popular composer and pianist, with achievements including instrumental hits across the United States.

This piece, “To Autumn,” blends a beautiful melody with Latin rhythms.