The Power Chords and Body Slams: How Music and Professional Wrestling Influenced Each Other
Updated: Jun 12

The world of professional wrestling and the realm of music might seem like distant cousins at first glance, but beneath the surface, a fascinating connection exists. Over the years, the relationship between music and professional wrestling has been a dynamic one, with both art forms influencing and shaping each other. Join me as we delve into the captivating story of how music and professional wrestling have intertwined, creating an electrifying synergy that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
1. Entrance Themes: A Soundtrack to Glory:
One of the most apparent connections between music and professional wrestling lies in the wrestlers' entrance themes. These musical compositions become the calling cards of the wrestlers, evoking emotions, creating anticipation, and establishing their larger-than-life personas. From the iconic guitar riffs of Hulk Hogan's "Real American" to the sinister undertones of The Undertaker's haunting theme, these songs become ingrained in the collective consciousness of fans and amplify the drama and spectacle of wrestling.

2. Live Performances: Rocking the Ring:
Professional wrestling events have embraced live music performances as a way to enhance the fan experience. The electrifying energy of a live band or musician can elevate the atmosphere to new heights, generating an infectious synergy between the performers and the audience. From Motorhead playing Triple H's theme song live to bands like Limp Bizkit and Kid Rock performing at major wrestling events, these collaborations have created memorable moments that blur the lines between music concerts and wrestling spectacles.
3. Wrestling-Inspired Music: Smashing Stereotypes:
Music has often drawn inspiration from the world of professional wrestling, incorporating wrestling references and themes into songs. Artists across various genres have paid homage to wrestling's larger-than-life characters and stories, infusing their music with the same passion and theatricality. Whether it's hip-hop artists like Run-DMC's tribute to "The King of Rock" Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson or rock bands like KISS and Megadeth crafting songs inspired by wrestling, these musical tributes demonstrate the impact of wrestling on popular culture.

4. Wrestler-Musicians: From the Ring to the Studio:
Professional wrestlers have occasionally ventured into the music industry, showcasing their musical talents outside the squared circle. Some wrestlers have formed bands, recorded albums, and embarked on musical careers parallel to their wrestling endeavors. While not all these ventures achieve widespread acclaim, they highlight the multifaceted nature of wrestlers and their desire to explore various artistic outlets.
5. Cross-Promotion and Branding:
Music and professional wrestling have often come together through cross-promotion and branding. Wrestlers have used music to enhance their character's persona, collaborating with artists for entrance themes or appearing in music videos. Conversely, musicians have recognized the marketing potential of aligning themselves with the popularity of wrestling, featuring wrestlers in their music videos or performing at wrestling events. These cross-promotions have benefited both industries, expanding their reach to new audiences.

Conclusion
The entwined history of music and professional wrestling showcases a compelling relationship that has influenced and enriched both art forms. From the iconic entrance themes that amplify the drama of wrestling to live performances that ignite the crowd, music has become an integral part of the wrestling experience. Likewise, wrestling's larger-than-life characters and narratives have inspired musicians to infuse their music with the same passion and spectacle. As these two worlds continue to intersect, the bond between music and professional wrestling remains a testament to the power of entertainment and the enduring impact they have on fans around the globe.
Disclaimer: Please refrain from attempting wrestling moves while headbanging to your favorite tunes. Safety first!
Note: This blog post explores the general relationship between music and professional wrestling. Specific examples and influences may vary over time