Olympic gold medalist Alysa Liu recently shared insights into her skating career and music preferences during an appearance on a popular talk show. Liu discussed how her choice of skating music, especially tracks tied to the theme of summer and artists like Donna Summer, has played a significant role in her performances and public influence.
Liu revealed that she was introduced to Donna Summer’s “MacArthur Park” by a recommendation. She chose a special 16-minute suite version for her freestyle program, which not only elevated her performance but also helped her advance from third place to clinch gold in the women’s individual figure skating. Her use of “MacArthur Park” also contributed to the song reaching the top of the Billboard Dance Digital Song Sales chart, earning Donna Summer her fourth posthumous No. 1 hit.
Beyond Donna Summer, Liu’s skating routines have boosted the popularity of other songs. After her gala performance featuring “Stateside” by PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson, the track saw a notable jump in streams the following day. Similarly, Laufey’s “Promise” achieved impressive streaming numbers after Liu skated to it in her short program. Liu shared that her music choices are personal and that after her “Stateside” performance, she received a message from PinkPantheress, expressing kindness and support.
Looking ahead, Liu has identified several tracks she hopes to skate to in the future. Her top pick is “Capable of Love” by PinkPantheress, with other contenders including “Fire in My Heart” by Escape From New York, Billie Eilish’s “Chihiro,” Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake,” and “Star” by Mitski. Liu emphasized her intent to choose music that resonates with her, and she set this as a key condition for returning to competitive skating after stepping away in 2022.
With her musical influence evident, Alysa Liu continues to inspire both skating fans and music lovers. As she prepares for upcoming competitions, it is likely fans will hear more modern and summer-themed tracks featured in her routines, possibly at future Winter Olympics.
