Team USA’s women’s gymnastics team is adding a pop music twist to their gravity-defying floor routines at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Instead of the classical music often chosen in past competitions, the team is energizing fans with instrumental versions of popular songs by artists like Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Travis Scott.
On July 28 at the Bercy Arena, Simone Biles, Jade Carey, Jordan Chiles, Hezly Rivera, and Sunisa “Suni” Lee showcased their routines, pairing their athletic feats with these crowd-pleasing soundtracks. Olympic rules prohibit lyrics in floor music, which traditionally led gymnasts to select classical pieces, but the rise in using instrumental pop songs allows athletes to connect more with fans while performing.
Valorie Kondos Field, former head coach of UCLA’s gymnastics team, highlighted the importance of music that resonates with athletes, saying, “Music that the athlete resonates with can really bring that music to life with their movement.” Since 2010, gymnasts have been moving away from classical music to make the sport more relatable to broader audiences.
This musical choice comes with its challenges: athletes must secure permissions from music copyright holders. And while the women’s routines thrive on music, men’s gymnastics still follows tradition with silence, emphasizing strength without dance components.
This year, Team USA’s gymnasts have not only chosen music that pumps up the audience but also received positive shout-outs from the artists themselves.
Simone Biles featured Taylor Swift’s “…Ready for It?” mixed with Travis Scott’s “Delresto (Echoes)” featuring Beyoncé, choreographed by French dancer Grégory Milan. Biles said, “My agent suggested Taylor Swift, then I found this Beyoncé song… I love Taylor Swift and Beyoncé. Those are my girls!” Swift even praised Biles’s performance on social media.
Jade Carey opted for the sports anthem “Seven Nation Army” by the White Stripes. While she had hoped to repeat her Tokyo gold, a stumble during qualifiers dashed her medal hopes.
Jordan Chiles went all-in on Beyoncé with a medley of “My House,” “Energy,” and Destiny’s Child’s “Lose My Breath,” adding choreography inspired by Beyoncé’s iconic moves. Queen Bey herself sent Chiles a signed record, which Chiles proudly shared online.
Suni Lee performed to a violin piece by Lindsey Stirling, keeping her connection to the musician from her 2020 Tokyo routine. Despite being diagnosed with kidney diseases before Paris, Lee continues to inspire with her performances.
Hezly Rivera brought holiday spirit with “Carol of the Bells” by Pentatonix, delighting fans with this festive twist. Pentatonix’s Scott Hoying shared his excitement on social media, celebrating Rivera’s powerful performance.
As Team USA pushes boundaries with fresh music choices, they showcase how gymnastics can blend athleticism and pop culture, inspiring fans and adding an exciting layer to the Olympic Games.