Alysa Liu’s Music Choice: Why She Chose Laufey’s "promise" For Her 2026 Olympic Programs

Okay, picture this: it’s late, the kind of late where the only light outside is the streetlamp's hazy glow, and you’re scrolling, mindlessly scrolling, through TikTok. Suddenly, a video pops up. It’s Alysa Liu, looking absolutely ethereal, gliding across the ice with a grace that makes you instantly forget you’re still in your pajamas. And the music? Oh, the music. It’s that incredibly haunting, beautiful melody that just… stays with you. You know the one, right? The one that sounds like a whisper from a bygone era, but with a modern heartbeat.

That, my friends, was my first encounter with Laufey’s “Promise.” And honestly? It blew me away. The sheer emotional weight of it, combined with Alysa’s artistry, was a recipe for something truly special. So, when the whispers started circulating about her choosing that song, and even more of Laufey’s magic, for her upcoming Olympic programs in 2026, my inner music nerd and figure skating fan did a little happy dance. Like, a full-on, no-holds-barred, interpretive dance.

Let's be real, choosing music for an Olympic program is huge. It's not just about picking a catchy tune. It's about finding something that resonates, something that can carry the story you want to tell on the ice, something that can connect with the judges and the audience on a deeper level. It’s like picking the soundtrack to your entire life’s ambition, compressed into a few minutes of pure, breathtaking performance. No pressure, right?

And Alysa Liu? She’s not just any skater. This is a woman who’s already made history, landing two triple Axels in competition. She’s a powerhouse. So, for her to gravitate towards something as delicate and nuanced as Laufey’s music? That tells us something, doesn’t it? It’s not just a trend; it's a deliberate, artistic choice. And I, for one, am here for it. I'm practically vibrating with anticipation.

The Laufey Phenomenon: A Jazz Revival for a New Generation?

Before we dive headfirst into Alysa's Olympic dreams, let's talk about Laufey herself. If you've somehow managed to avoid her on social media or streaming playlists, consider this your official intervention. Laufey, this Icelandic-Chinese singer-songwriter, has taken the music world by storm, and it’s not just a fleeting moment. She’s bringing a sophistication and classic charm to music that feels both wonderfully familiar and utterly fresh.

Her sound? Imagine Ella Fitzgerald taking a stroll through a modern-day cityscape, sipping on a latte, and then composing a ballad that’s just for you. It’s jazz, but it’s not your grandpa’s dusty jazz records (no offense to grandpa’s records, they’re probably awesome too!). It’s jazz infused with pop sensibilities, with a touch of bossa nova, and a whole lot of genuine heart. She’s got this incredible ability to blend melancholy with an undeniable sweetness, creating songs that feel like warm hugs on a rainy day, or perhaps, a bittersweet goodbye.

And "Promise"? Oh, "Promise" is the epitome of this. It’s a song that feels like it was written in a dream. It has this slow-burn intensity, building with subtle orchestral swells and Laufey’s signature smoky vocals. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to dim the lights, curl up on the sofa, and just… feel. It’s a confession, a plea, a delicate unraveling of emotions. It’s not about big, bombastic declarations; it's about the quiet, profound moments of connection and longing.

It’s fascinating to see how Laufey has captured the attention of so many, especially younger audiences who might not have grown up with traditional jazz. She’s somehow made it accessible, cool, and deeply emotional. It’s a testament to her talent and the universal appeal of her songwriting. She’s not just a musician; she’s creating an entire vibe, a whole aesthetic that resonates with a generation looking for something authentic and meaningful in a world that can often feel superficial.

Alysa Liu: The Unexpected Harmony

Now, let’s bring it back to Alysa. When I first heard about her choosing "Promise," my immediate thought was, "This is genius." Think about the narrative potential. Alysa is known for her explosive jumps, her incredible athleticism, her sheer power on the ice. But in "Promise," she’s found a piece of music that allows her to showcase a completely different facet of her artistry. It’s a chance for her to explore the vulnerability, the grace, and the emotional depth that often gets overshadowed by the sheer athleticism.

Imagine the contrast: the explosive energy of her technical elements juxtaposed with the tender, yearning melody of "Promise." It’s a masterclass in storytelling through movement. She can be a whirlwind of power one moment, and then, as the music swells, she can transform into something delicate, something utterly captivating. It’s like seeing a perfectly cut diamond that, under the right light, reveals a spectrum of breathtaking colors.

And it's not just "Promise," is it? There are reports that she’s also incorporating other Laufey tracks, potentially creating a program that’s entirely dedicated to this enchanting artist. This is a bold move, but it’s also one that speaks volumes about Alysa’s confidence in her artistic vision. She’s not afraid to take risks, to forge her own path, and to let her music choices reflect the woman she is becoming on and off the ice.

Think about the energy of figure skating. It’s demanding, it’s competitive, it’s filled with pressure. And then you have Laufey’s music, which is often about introspection, about quiet moments, about the beauty found in simplicity. The combination is like a perfectly brewed cup of tea after a long day – it soothes, it invigorates, and it leaves you feeling utterly content and inspired.

What I love most about this choice is how it allows Alysa to transcend the purely technical. While her jumps and spins will undoubtedly be awe-inspiring, it’s the emotional connection that will truly make her programs unforgettable. "Promise" offers her the perfect vehicle to express yearning, hope, and perhaps even a touch of melancholy. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has ever hoped for something deeply, who has ever felt the weight of expectation, and who has found solace in the quiet moments.

The Olympic Stage: A Canvas for Emotion

The Olympic stage is a pressure cooker, no doubt about it. But it’s also a place where athletes can truly shine, where they can connect with the world on a profound level. And music plays such a crucial role in that connection. It’s the invisible thread that weaves through the performance, guiding the audience through the athlete’s journey.

For Alysa to choose a song like "Promise" suggests a desire to connect on an emotional level, to share a part of herself that might be less visible in her more technically demanding programs. It’s a testament to her maturity as an athlete and an artist. She’s not just aiming for the medals; she’s aiming for impact, for resonance, for a legacy that goes beyond the scoresheet.

Imagine the atmosphere. The hushed anticipation of the crowd, the spotlight illuminating Alysa as she begins her routine. And then, the first notes of "Promise" fill the arena. It’s a stark contrast to the usual bombastic or dramatic scores we often hear. This is intimate, personal, and deeply moving. It’s a moment where the entire world can pause and simply feel with her.

It makes me wonder what kind of narrative she’s building. Is it a story of overcoming challenges? Of quiet perseverance? Of finding strength in vulnerability? The beauty of Laufey’s music, especially "Promise," is its ambiguity. It allows the listener, and in this case, the skater, to imbue it with their own meaning. It becomes a shared experience, a collaboration between the artist, the music, and the audience.

And let’s not forget the power of repetition. If she’s using multiple Laufey tracks, it suggests a cohesive artistic vision, a mini-album for the ice. This isn’t just a one-off song choice; it’s a deliberate and curated experience. It’s a statement. It’s saying, “This is who I am, this is what moves me, and I want to share it with you.” And honestly? That kind of bold authenticity is what makes sports, and art, so incredibly compelling.

The Unfolding Narrative: What’s Next?

So, what does this mean for the 2026 Olympics? It means we’re in for a treat, that’s what it means. It means we’ll likely see a Alysa Liu we haven't fully seen before, one who can effortlessly transition from gravity-defying jumps to moments of exquisite tenderness. It means we'll have a chance to witness a truly unique artistic interpretation of music that has already captured so many hearts.

It’s a reminder that figure skating is more than just athleticism; it’s a form of storytelling, a ballet on ice. And the music is the script, the language through which those stories are told. Laufey’s "Promise" is a beautiful, evocative piece of music, and it's clear that Alysa Liu sees its potential to elevate her performances to new heights. It’s a choice that speaks to her artistic maturity, her willingness to experiment, and her desire to connect with her audience on a deeper, more emotional level.

I’m already mentally replaying those potential programs, picturing the intricate footwork, the soaring jumps, all set to the delicate sway of Laufey’s melodies. It’s going to be epic. It’s going to be heartfelt. And it’s going to be, I’m willing to bet, absolutely unforgettable. So, if you haven’t already, go give "Promise" a listen. And then imagine it on the ice, with Alysa Liu at the helm. You’ll see exactly what I mean. You’ll feel it too. Trust me.