Former WWE composer Jim Johnston's approach to creating theme songs for wrestlers was unique and, in his view, essential to the storytelling process. In an interview on the podcast 'False Face', Johnston revealed that he rarely interacted with wrestlers due to their lack of musical understanding and interest. This decision, he believes, was crucial to maintaining the integrity of the themes he composed.
Johnston's perspective highlights a critical aspect of the creative process in professional wrestling. He emphasizes that theme songs are not merely personal preferences or imitations of favorite artists. Instead, they should be tailored to each wrestler's character and the narrative arc of their story. This requires a deep understanding of the wrestler's persona and the ability to translate that into a musical composition.
The composer's reluctance to engage with wrestlers who were not musically inclined was a strategic choice. He explains that such interactions often led to misunderstandings and expectations that could derail the creative vision. For instance, a wrestler might request a theme song that sounds like their favorite band or artist, but Johnston would gently remind them that their theme should be unique and reflective of their character.
This approach, while potentially frustrating for some wrestlers, has had a lasting impact on WWE's theme songs. Since Johnston's departure in 2017, fans have noticed a decline in the quality of the music, with some arguing that the group Def Rebel's contributions have not matched the standard set by Johnston's work. This shift in the creative process has sparked debates among wrestling enthusiasts, who are divided on whether the new themes are a step backward or a natural evolution.
Johnston's firing from WWE in 2017 remains a contentious issue among fans. Many believe that his dismissal contributed to the decline in the quality of WWE's theme songs. The subsequent hiring of Def Rebel, a group that has produced some polarizing themes, further fueled the controversy. This situation underscores the importance of creative control and the potential consequences when it comes to the art of wrestling music.
In conclusion, Jim Johnston's approach to composing theme songs for WWE wrestlers was a deliberate and thoughtful process. His decision to limit interactions with wrestlers who lacked musical understanding was a strategic move to preserve the integrity of his work. The aftermath of his departure has sparked discussions about the creative process in professional wrestling and the challenges of maintaining a high standard in the face of changing dynamics.
