For decades, WWE entrance themes have been an essential element of professional wrestling, shaping the identities of Superstars and enhancing the fan experience. From the iconic glass shattering of Stone Cold Steve Austin to the ominous gong signaling The Undertaker’s arrival, these themes were more than just music – they were cultural touchstones.
However, in recent years, WWE seems to have lost its way when it comes to creating memorable entrance music. Fans have noticed a decline in the quality and impact of new themes, resulting in a disconnect between wrestlers and their signature songs. This issue not only affects the individual Superstars but also undermines the overall product and fan enjoyment.
### An Essential Element
Entrance themes are more than just background music; they are a vital part of a wrestler’s persona. Just as fans recognize a wrestler by their trademark moves or catchphrases, they should instantly identify them by the first few notes of their entrance music. This familiarity adds to the excitement of watching WWE events, whether live or at home, creating a sense of anticipation and connection with the performers.
### Recipe for Success
Creating a catchy entrance theme is no easy task, but there are elements that contribute to its success. Familiarity, cultural connection, repetition, and an appealing performance all play a role in making a song memorable. Unfortunately, many of WWE’s recent entrance themes lack these essential qualities, resulting in generic and forgettable compositions that fail to resonate with fans.
### The Missing Element: Jim Johnston
One name that often comes up in discussions about WWE’s declining entrance music quality is Jim Johnston. As the mastermind behind many iconic themes, Johnston understood the importance of crafting songs that not only complemented a wrestler’s character but also resonated with audiences. His departure from WWE in 2017 left a void that has yet to be filled, highlighting the need for his talent and expertise in creating memorable music.
### Solutions
To address the entrance music problem, WWE must consider several solutions. One option is to rehire Jim Johnston or seek out a talented in-house producer with a proven track record. Additionally, the company could explore partnerships with established artists or younger musicians to create fresh, engaging themes for Superstars. Incentives such as profit sharing and wider exposure could entice artists to collaborate with WWE, ensuring the creation of high-quality entrance music.
### Conclusion
The decline in WWE’s entrance music quality is a problem that has persisted for far too long. As fans continue to voice their dissatisfaction with current themes, it’s clear that action must be taken to restore the significance and impact of these iconic songs. Whether through rehiring talent like Jim Johnston or forging new partnerships with artists, WWE has the opportunity to revitalize its entrance music and reignite the excitement of the WWE Universe.
