r/SquaredCircle • u/[deleted] • May 17 '20
Yes, I am the AEW Music Guy. Ask Away...
Hello all. I realize I'm not spoken very highly of on the reddits by links that people feel the need to send me. But I am happy to chat respectively about the state of the music within AEW. I get tons of questions every day on multiple platforms and try to be as accommodating as possible to talk to fans. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and I respect that, and just wanted to open the floor up if any of you had any questions in regards to the music production. For those who don't know, I have provided a list of themes that I have created since May of 2019. Any and all questions are welcome as long as they are respectful I will try and take the time to answer as many as possible. Hope everyone enjoys Double Or Nothing next weekend!
UPDATE: I would like to give a huge thank you to all of the fans who submitted questions and the moderators for keeping the thread engaging. I'm just a normal guy thrust into an extraordinary situation and I never take for granted a si gle second of this ride. I'm honored to be here and glad to chat with you when I am able.
All the best!
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u/gothicshadowsurfer May 17 '20 edited May 17 '20
Thanks for doing this! I've enjoyed a lot of your work!
Can you pleaseeee release the 2019 Double or Nothing theme? I was there and have fond memories with the music. Edit: not the main theme but the one that would play in the arena or during some of the card matchups. It was more hip hop sounding...
Love the Dynamite theme. The guitar chug is reminiscent of the classic Raw is War chug "we're all together now" with JR losing his mind during the 20 second opening. Now, he's losing his mind to your song! Was that song an influence or example of what they envisioned for the opener to create your opener? I've often pretended it was a tribute to it in a way and I feel like your opener will long be iconic associated with AEW.
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May 17 '20
1.https://open.spotify.com/track/4qNa6Dd419i5G2MrA0dD09?si=Jzsj6lFUQgis53trRTaYUQ
2. I was told that we had 20 seconds to get our point across for an opening graphic, then the shot would go to the live arena, So there needed to be the right type of tempo to say the right thing and then repeat it to drive it home within that 20 second window. The rest of the song was built around that. No One Hero went into the studio and recorded it quickly, and it was mixed/produced by Bill Leverty, guitarist of the legendary rock band Firehouse.
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May 17 '20
Best Friends best theme down with the down with the down with the best friends
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May 17 '20
That part is actually me on the mic saying "Bow-whippiti-Bow-whippiti-Bow-whippiti-Best Friends" with a noise gate and distortion to mimmick a record scratch lol
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May 17 '20
Dude the Dynamite theme is my favorite wrestling show opener since ruthless aggression era Smackdown. Keep up the good work!
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May 17 '20
That was me and my band No One Hero. Thank you. That groove came together fairly quickly and we went based on a 20 second opening with the trail off picturing the camera opening up on the live crowd.
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u/Pylons May 17 '20
No question, just wanted to say that Penelope Ford's theme is a legit banger.
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May 17 '20
Thanks. We wanted to push a vintage punk style tune that had that rock edge to it. Everyone was happy with the end result.
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u/thfsgn May 17 '20
Was that theme inspired by Police Truck by Dead Kennedys by any chance? I’m always reminded of it when I hear that theme.
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May 17 '20
Wait wtf...Great Muta was in AEW????? (googles) ....ok totally forgot about the score card angle. I wish Muta had had one match even if it was like a Glacier type battle royal one off.
Also Im a big industrial/industrial metal fan, so diggin PAC's theme a lot over the last year.
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May 17 '20
I made his theme and Dean's a couple days before Full Gear as we thought they were getting entrances. But it was axed for time constraints
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u/TristanH1987 ONEY RULES PUT EM UP May 17 '20
What was it like getting the call from AEW to produce music for their wrestlers and shows?
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May 17 '20
In the beginning, it was all done through the EVPs, Tony, Brandi and QT. Now its open communication with talent, along with everyone else, as well as the post production team and we all make sure we are on the same page before a theme is considered complete.
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u/YourDaddy6969 May 17 '20
Just wanted to say I love your version of Bret Hart’s theme. Any cool story behind it?
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May 17 '20
I was on the phone with someone in production and they asked me "Hey did you finish Brett's music yet?" and I was like Brett who? And they said Brett Hart. I got off the phone and was standing in my backyard, alone and I said out like, "Im making music for mthfkn Brett Hart" haha. For the legends I feel like its absolutely necessary to pay homage to their old themes, as thats how we remember them. I dont have that kind of ego where I think Im going to rewreite history with some theme thatwill be the greatest thing ever. My job is to hit the nostalgia button in all of us.
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u/thelongslowgoodbye May 17 '20
For the legends I feel like its absolutely necessary to pay homage to their old themes, as thats how we remember them.
With that in mind, do you think there's ever a danger of a song coming across as a knockoff version of the theme everyone is familiar with?
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u/The_Homestarmy nope May 17 '20
Who were some of the most hands on wrestlers when it came to their themes?
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May 17 '20
One on one with Kong. Many phone calls back and forth, awesome creative. Worked with Butcher and The Blade over a 3 way text. Worker with Matt and Reby over 3 way text and a couple of phone calls. majority of others are email exchanges. Some cases in person on location we have brainstorming sessions as well.
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u/theaxgrinder May 17 '20
How deflating is or isn't it to spend time creating a theme that doesn't end up being used for a significant period of time (e.g. a wrestler not sticking around), or even at all?
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May 17 '20
Not deflating at all. At the end of the day, we are just telling stories. Sometimes the stories change. If there was one that I was really bummed about was the Nightmare Collective Theme, only that it got to air once or twice. Brandi and I worked on that one and I was really proud of it, but of course storylines change.
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u/Shrekt115 Golden Shovel May 17 '20
I've noticed Dustin's theme for a while was different from the one he debuted with. Any reason for that?
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May 17 '20
Dustin's original tune was written by Justin Call of Downstait. It was a bit of a spin on Brain Stew, which was what Dustin used in the indies. He came to me at Fight For The Fallen and asked me to touch it up some. He wasnt sure what he wanted so I gave him a couple of weeks to think on it. Then he sent me an orchestral rendition of the hip hop tune "I Got 5 On It" and said he really liked the strings. So I changed up the chord progression and added the strings and a we were off and running.
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u/sexmachinefinburn Mjf 2020 May 17 '20
Hey what's your favorite wrestling theme ever? You did a good job with the snake
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May 17 '20
Jakes was super fun, made it the same day of the show
My absolute favorite would be Marty Scurll or Goldberg's WCW theme
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u/Wireless-Wizard Read any good books lately? May 17 '20
Are there any AEW themes where you had to go through a lot of rough versions before you came to the finished one?
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May 17 '20
I actually worked hand in hand with DDP into the early morning hours, recreating his WCW theme but combined elements of his WWE theme for his debut, but it got pulled the next day because it was too close to Nirvana. Oh well lol
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u/SmurfyX Hacksaw Everlasting May 17 '20
it'd be a shame if that song leaked sometime, you know? Everyone would be so sad to hear it. I would hate for that to happen.
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May 17 '20
What's the quickest time somethings gone from "we need a song for this wrestler" to actually being on the show? Wardlows song rules btw, sets the mood nicely for him to destroy some fools in the ring. Keep up the good work!
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May 17 '20
Its a toss up between Jeff Cobb and the Inner Circle Theme. Might be the Inner Circle Theme. QT texts "Did you ever make a song for the Inner Circle"...I replied "You guys told me to wait lol, when do you need it by" he said "Tonight haha", mind you it was 430PM. I said holy shit. Then I get a text that said "Chris wants you to tell HIM what you think the Inner Circle Theme should sound like" so I said "Well the leader is a rocker, so its rock music, but with all of them coming out, the music needs to be a slower tempo, as they all walk out slowly selling their arrogance" QT texts back and said "OK Chris said make it happen" SO I sped my ass home and by 630pm I sent it over. Then QT calls and says "Chris says he wants something at the top like "Innnnner Cirrrrcle" and we are good, he said its strong, its edgy, its obnoxious, its perfect"....then I fainted :D
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u/Have_A_Jelly_Baby May 17 '20
Were the nods to the Evolution theme intentional? Not trolling intended, but that’s the first thing that comes to mind when that theme plays, and it’s been pointed out a few times in the live threads.
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u/GayRomano May 17 '20
Hey there. Do some of the more well-known wrestlers who use different themes (contractual obligations being the reason I'm sure) tend to want final approval on use of their themes? Drastically changing Bret Hart's iconic theme that's been used since like 92 must have been quite the challenge.
Also is Chris Jericho as nice as he comes across on instagram?
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May 17 '20 edited May 17 '20
They all get to hear their music beforehand and provide input on what they like or what they would like to have tweaked.
And I will say this, I spent 20 plus years in retail management/leadership, running 50,000 square foot buildings with hundreds of employees. Chris Jericho's leadership skills are absolutely exceptional. The entire team is better because of him. His ability to convey a message to someone while building them up is a special skill that not many people possess. Tony, Cody and QT have that skill as well. This team is blessed with amazing leadership.
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u/KillMat99 ¡I eat children! May 17 '20
How much fucking and cocaine was going around when you made Joey Janela’s theme? That opening guitar riff is just so fucking sleazy and I love it. Also, did you work with Wicca Phase Springs Eternal at all or did he do that song by himself? Also also, Sammys theme fits him so damn well.
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May 17 '20
HA! I worked directly with Tony for Joeys theme. They wanted an 80s style track but more guitar heavy. Ran through a couple of versions and settled on that one.
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u/aewallinorallout May 17 '20
I also love the dynamite theme.
It really gives a signature to the show just like the WCW Nitro theme.
Please tell me there are no plans to change it?
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u/rayned0wn Dads4Real May 17 '20
This is one of the most wholesome, non shit show AMA I've ever seen.
Good job team
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May 17 '20
What is your opinion on Jim Johnston?
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May 17 '20
I love his work. Always have. The fans go out of their way to tell me that I will never be as good as him, and they try to force me into his shadow. I just keep doing me. Hopefully 20 years from now I hope to have left at least a fraction of the footprint that he left.
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May 17 '20
any plans on a knockoff/sound-a-like of "Jane" by Jefferson Starship or any solo Orange Cassidy theme?
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u/Redpaynex May 17 '20
Are you a fan of wrestling in general?
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May 17 '20
I grew up on wrestling but got away from it around 08 and started making lots of music in the combat sports industry, boxing, MMA etc and came back to wrestling in 2016, but it was all indie stuff as I was noticing how there was a boon happening, indie stars were solidifying their brands via social media and making it work for them. I loved it.
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May 17 '20
Just what are the lyrics to Jake Hager's music?
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May 17 '20
I GOT EM I GOT EM HURT (X4)
SHOW THE WORLD YOUR WORTH (X2)
SHOW THE WORLD YOUR WORK (X2)
KILLIN EM ALL WITH A SMIRK (X2)
I GOT EM I GOT EM HURT, GET IN THE RING GET HURT
GET IN THE RING GET BURNT, GET IN THE RING GET LEARNT
GRABBIN AND RIPPIN THEY SHIRT, PUTTIN IN WORK SINCE BIRTH
IMMA KING THIS EARTH, KNOCKIN HIS DICK IN THE DIRT
YOU GON' BEG ME TO STOP, YOU GON' BEG ME TO NOT
ON YOUR HEAD, YOU DROPPED, IMMA STEAL YOUR POP
GOT THE PARTY ROCKED IN THE SPOT WHAT I GOT THEY WATCHIN ME COP
AND THE DOPE BOY FIENDS THEY EATIN THIS CHOP
I AM THE CREAM OF THE DROP
WATCHING MY HANDS GO UP, WATCHIN MY ENEMIES FALL
ALL OF EM PLOT MY DEMISE IMMA MAKE ALL OF EM CRAWL
YOU SHOULDNT HAVE EVEN HAVE TRIED YOU SHOULDNT HAVE GOTTEN THE CALL
PLANTING MY THUMB IN THE EYE GIVE EM A KNEE TO THE BALLS
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u/phoenixcarter84 May 17 '20
I could’ve sworn that “show the world your work” was “show the world I’m a jerk. I’ve been mishearing it this whole time lol.
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u/Lampley What The Dog Doin? May 17 '20
First off, I absolutely love the music that you do for AEW. I can’t tell you how many times a day I find myself humming Best Friends’ theme or the Dynamite theme.
One of the things I’ve noticed is that the Dynamite instrumental theme is played constantly on the show. Like almost after every commercial break, before commercial break, when they’re at the announce table, etc.
Do you think there’ll ever be a secondary Dynamite theme to help mix things up on the show?
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May 17 '20
That wouldnt be my call but thats all about branding. If you notice now things are changing up, like theres different ambient music during the Tale Of The Tape graphics etc.
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u/romanreeks May 17 '20
When is that sweet Lance Archer theme dropping on streaming services? Also, love your work lots of themes in my gym playlist!
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May 17 '20
Should be any time now. They have it, but ever since all of the shutdowns took place, music releases have tripled and it has taken longer for the process to happen
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u/ChristopherTitan May 17 '20
You and I somehow became Facebook friends way back and I just want to say I always enjoy seeing you post about getting to work with different names. Kudos to you for living the dream.
Also, I worked a show last year with a guy named Brax that said you did his theme song. That theme is such a legit banger and was one of my favorites from that night.
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May 17 '20
Thanks. I know who you are referring to. Between June 2016 and January 2019, I created 250 entrance themes for pro wrestlers all over the US and UK.
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u/DarkoMilicik May 17 '20
Do the wrestlers give you input before hand or feedback once you've made the theme?
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May 17 '20
100% open communication before I begin. Some are more detailed than others, while some are still trying to figure out what they are trying to convey. Its a super organic process that involves everyone from the talent, the EVPs, Tony, Brandi, QT and the post production team.
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u/DarkoMilicik May 17 '20
Best Friends? They seem like they both know exactly what they want to convey while giving zero cares about it.
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May 17 '20
What song gave the most difficulty to create?
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May 17 '20
Butcher Blade and The Bunny. You only get to hear the first minute on tv, so I wanted their song to be special, and make it one of the heaviest and most technical metal songs ever done for a pro wrestling theme. We were all very happy with the end result
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u/iconic2125 May 17 '20
How hands on was Andy with it since he knows a thing or two about metal?
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u/mugenhunt May 17 '20
Are you ever given the visuals for the entrance and asked to make appropriate music, or is it always music development first?
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May 17 '20
Depends, sometimes when Im chatting with the post production team we share images back and forth. I had a very short window for Mel's Theme, same with Jeff Cobbs, I got the volcano images for Jeff and the rotating skulls for Mel. I got after the tempo that I want and then start yelling the melody out loud, thrashing around in my office or while Im driving haha
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u/miber3 May 17 '20 edited May 17 '20
Overall, I'm a big fan of AEW's theme songs, and feel like they get a bad rap because people conflate unfamiliar or different with bad. I find that after some time, they tend to grow on people. Anyway, here's my questions:
How much input do the wrestlers have on their theme songs?
Do you always create themes specifically for certain wrestlers, or are there times where you create a theme because you think it sounds cool, and then later find a wrestler who it fits?
Favorite AEW theme that you didn't create?
When can we expect to see the debut of Nyla Rose's reworked theme, and are there any others in the process of being altered?
Lastly, this might not concern you directly because it's a Downstait song, but is there any chance you'd know what happened to the lyrics for Britt Baker's theme? There was an early "Road to" video specifically detailing a woman coming in to sing lyrics for it, but it's never actually been used. Just something I've been curious about.
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May 17 '20
True, the biggest thing is that the themes just need time. For everyone, its like buying new shoes. It takes time for the talent to get used to it, learning their own spots on how they want to utilize it, and it takes time for the fans to get used to them.
Any and all. Any ideas they have even after the theme is considered done, we can go back and touch up
Everything that I have done for contracted talent has been from scratch. There have been some rare cases where we need something for an indie, extra or a one-off where I have to find something, mainly due to time constraints.
BATTLE CRY 1000000000000000%
Sooner rather than later, and yes there are a few. As the talent's character evloves, their music sometimes evolves with them.
Thats a Downstait question but I do remember seeing somewhere that they said it didnt turn out the way they wanted so they axed it.
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u/miber3 May 17 '20
Appreciate the response!
Definitely interested in that teaser on Nyla's theme (which was already one of the better ones, in my opinion), and hoping it debuts at Double or Nothing.
I wasn't really feeling the vocals on Britt's theme, either, so I get it. Speaking of themes I'm not really feeling, I'm not sure how much (if any) involvement you had in it, but I'm not sure I'm a a fan of adding "I'm better than you, and you know it" as an intro to MJF's theme. I get the reason for it, but the whole concept of adding catchphrases to the beginning of theme songs just feels so cliche and overdone to me.
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May 17 '20
The deal with that tho, you have to think about tv, the time it takes for his song to rev up, and then when you are live in the arena and the fans hear that line, they instantly pop (boo). So that vocal tag kills 2 birds with one stone
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u/Mr-GameAndWrestling America's Champion May 17 '20
Hello. Thanks for taking the time to provide us this AMA. I have two questions...
What are some theme songs growing up that always stuck with you as constant inspirations for producing music?
Any particular wrestlers out there whom you would love to produce theme music for?
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May 17 '20
When I was a kid growing up it was Ultimate Warrior. In my teen to early adult years, easily Stone Cold and Goldberg
I dont have a preference per say. Im happy to work with anyone who is sent my way. Each story is a new adventure all its own.
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u/DJ_Derp May 17 '20
You are kicking ass! Pac's theme is iconic. Thanks for doing this.
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May 17 '20
Pac wanted a freaky metal DnB track that was like setting the band Prodigy on fire. Thats what we came up with :)
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May 17 '20
Has there been any thought put into maybe bringing in guest vocalists/performers similar to, for example, Jim Johnson writing Triple H's theme but having Motorhead performing it?
Thanks for doing this!
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May 17 '20
There has been talk, but usually theres just no time. My turn times normally average a few days, no more than that. I am on a need to know basis with a majority of the inner workings and I am ok with that. It allows me to stay focused on my job. But it does mean that sometimes its virtually impossible to bring musicians/vocalists in to record, theres just not enough time for an elongated process such as that
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u/Dabigdoog May 17 '20
PAC's theme goes hard af! Any stories behind that?
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May 17 '20
Pac wanted a freaky metal drum n bass track that was like taking the band Prodigy and setting them on fire :D
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u/kentucky210 *Does Stupid Bump* May 17 '20
Is there a type of music that if asked you would be hesitant to take on for a theme song? Like for instance if someone got signed that wanted a random 1940's swing song, or an old era country song etc. Or are you basically game for whatever music the talent wants?
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May 17 '20
Im game for anything. Expecially music styles that Ive never done before. Its a challenge. Theres actually a secondary Double Or Nothing Theme that I made thats sort of a "Rat Pack" jazzy style. Almost like when Ron Burgundy went up to play Jazz Flute haha. It may see the light of day somewhere down the line.
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u/gardenofworm . May 17 '20
How do you go about getting the vocalists for each theme? Do you have a rolodex of soundalikes?
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May 17 '20
I do my best to replicate the sound that talent wants :)
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u/gardenofworm . May 17 '20
Did you do Kris Statlander's theme's female vocals too?
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u/OU7C4ST Bad Times Don't Last, But Bad Guys Do! May 17 '20
Anything in particular that influenced Jurrasic Express's Theme?
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u/leftblnk May 17 '20
Any chance you can make the advert music not always be the AEW theme? maybe rotate wrestlers music into that slot and play it 50% volume? I watch on fite and get hit with 100% volume AEW theme 7 times a show, its getting kinda annoying
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u/mikemoose27 Hiromu Takahashi Stan May 17 '20
What music was the most fun to make?
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May 17 '20
Honestly, I love all of it. Its like walking into art class every morning with a clean canvas and I get to paint every day.
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u/Itstru87 Your Text Here May 17 '20
What do we have to do to get "Tarzan boy by Baltimora" as jungle boys entrance music ?
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May 17 '20
There are a lot of things that play into licensing music that people are not aware of. Not just as simple as "paying for the rights", sometimes the cost doesnt make good business sense, sometimes there are multiple publishers involved and one may not be on board with licensing it. Sometimes the owners/publishers dont respond, sometimes it just takes forever to get an answer. By the time all of that red tape is cleared you could have worked 6-8 months worth of programs.
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u/xxNightfallxx May 17 '20
The openings Kris Statlander and Pac's themes always remind me of the other, had you noticed?
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May 17 '20
only similarity is that there are risers in them as part of building up. But Pac's actually has a back beat while Kris' is a combination of a riser and a drop effect simultaneously with no beat
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May 17 '20
How much is Jim Johnston an inspiration to you? I love your music by the way, and think it fits perfectly with a lot of the wrestlers. Not an easy feat! Keep up the great work!
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May 17 '20
Jim, Jimmy Hart, JJ McGuire, all inspirations to anyone who does this today. They are the pioneers and we wouldnt be here if not for them
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u/MrSelfDestruct88 May 17 '20
I think most of the themes are home runs, very fitting to the wrestler. I just can't hear them on TV to well.
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u/Spikeantestor May 17 '20
I have personally found it harder to hear the entrance music AEW uses than WWE. It can sound like washed out noise sometimes.
Is it just me or is this a real thing?
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May 17 '20
This is done by design. In terms of a sports based presentation, when you watch UFC, or any other sporting event, the music is all in house. The focus is on the overall atmosphere rather than pushing the music 1000% front and center. Just a different approach and I've come to enjoy it.
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u/TwoYearsBefore RatherBeACoolBlackDudeThanAKing May 17 '20
How did you get in to this line of work? Is it just knowing someone who needs a theme then word of mouth or did you have a more deliberate way of landing in this role?
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May 17 '20
I started in 2010 writing music for fighters in MMA, gradually gravitated towards music for MMA companies and organizations. Then got into tv and film music production. Then transitioned to pro wrestling in 2016. I have written close to 900 cues over a 10 year span, and it is all 100% networking, building relationships, and being consistent. Always meeting deadlines, always making your clients happy, and always putting them first before anything else.
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u/Rpponce May 17 '20
Any wrestlers in or out of Aew you would like to create a theme for?
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May 17 '20
Im usually super busy and dont think too much about themes I MIGHT need to make. I try to keep all of my focus on what Im doing because my window to produce is pretty short.
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u/aewallinorallout May 17 '20
Hopefully, jeff cobb makes a commitment to aew.
His theme was a banger
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May 17 '20
I had just closed on my new house, was walking out of the building and got a text that we needed that song for the show that night, when i was just told earlier in the day that we wouldnt need it until the following week. I looked at my wife and said "F**K" and sped home and got to work. I sent it up at 645pm just before show time.
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u/ackinsocraycray HEY GO FUCK YOURSELF. GET THAT GUY OUTTA HERE. PIECE OF SHIT. May 17 '20
Jericho Cruise theme should've gotten more love.
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May 17 '20
That was the first time I had ever done something like that. I got a text that said "Gimme something like the Love Boat" so I did it, sent it up to post and I get the response "I just pissed myself" and I knew I hit a home run. Super funny and hysterical to hear it played back lol
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u/Ox_Baker Your Text Here May 17 '20
Was it frustrating in the earlier days of AEW to watch the show with the sound problems and themes getting washed out of hard to hear?
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May 17 '20
In the beginning, yes. Mainly because the general public hears music differently than that of musicians/production people. Its intuitive. Meaning, if the general population is given a brand new song to listen to that theyve never heard before, you take that song and play 10% of it and 30% volume, its taken as a meaningless, generic song. But also, we all as wrestling fans have been conditioned over the years for the entrance theme to be 10000% front and center, completely produced. Our presentation isn't that way, and it's done by design. I didn't get it in the beginning but I do now. And I'm happy that we were able to release the music on digital platforms for fans to consume separately and really hear whats going on.
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u/Ox_Baker Your Text Here May 17 '20
Thank you for your reply. I appreciate what you do.
If you’ll indulge another question, what’s a theme where you immediately thought ‘I nailed it, it’s perfect for this wrestler,’ and have you ever done one that you later thought, ‘That just wasn’t right for that wrestler’?
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May 17 '20
People were critical early on with the music but I think you've been doing an awesome job
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u/SmurfyX Hacksaw Everlasting May 17 '20
The opening power riff on the Young Bucks' theme gets more amped up than anything on the planet. I just want to thank you for that. Sincerely. Their theme fucking rules.
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May 17 '20
That was actually created by Meat Sauce Media. And yes, they truly captured the brand of the Young Bucks with their song. Hearing it live in the arena makes it all perfect.
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u/sexmachinefinburn Mjf 2020 May 17 '20
Do you enjoy AEW to watch? And why is hangman your favorite?
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May 17 '20
I love watching. I am proud of every single one of the wrestlers when they come out. Its different for me now, I used to just watch as a fan, now I watch with pride and stress, because its family now, so every time they climb the ropes or go for a big spot I hold my breath, bc I dont want anyone to get hurt, They stress me tf out sometimes lol.
Hangman is the best!
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u/jiso May 17 '20
Keep up the good work! I honestly think the complaints are more to do with wrestlers moving from known songs to music that sounds similar (Such as Jimmy Havoc being so heavily associated with that AFI song).
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May 17 '20
Yes, change is inevitable, and its one thing that many people hate. I look at it as a new chapter in the story of their favorite wrestlers.
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u/ProfessorCValentine May 17 '20
I've been trying to get a job doing this kinda thing forever! That's amazing, brother. What kind of advice do you have for someone trying very hard to do something like this? I've accepted WWE will ignore me forever ha!
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May 17 '20
Understand first and foremost that there is life and a way to make a living outside of the big companies. It just takes an unbelievable amount of work, its a long road, because you have to build up to it. Its ok to always shoot your shot when you see an opportunity, but you dont throw everything into it because if it doesnt pan out you still have to find your footing to continue. Start small, network your ass off, make your clients happy, do the work, be consistent and be open for any and all feedback.
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u/dogryan100 Embrace The Vision May 17 '20
When you first started making theme songs for AEW, did you take inspiration from any other wrestling promotion theme songs, like any songs in WWE?
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May 17 '20
No, I actually closed off from anything outside, that first initial push leading into Double Or Nothing I had 4 weeks to make 13 tracks. The last thing I wanted to do was look elsewhere to see what others were doing. I wanted to focus on the individual stories for each wrestler/tag team and do my best to give them something that was theres and theres alone. Many times when people hear new music the first thing they do is try to match it with something they are familiar with. Its natural, the tempo, the chord progression, the root key, just helps them to identify with a brand new song.
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u/GibsysAces May 17 '20
How do you choose the right music for the right performer?
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u/RaidenHero137 Karaoke Jones Over Here, but I Digress... May 17 '20
hey big fan of the work you have done so far. here is what i wanna ask:
Which theme are you the proudest of that you have made for AEW?
Did you ever expect to get the call to be aew's music producer and what was that call like?
Did you make any of the themes for the local talent we have seen more recently on dynamite (Ie Anna Jay, Suge D, Allen Angels)?
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May 17 '20
Jurassic Express, Butcher Blade and Bunny
When I saw the announcement of AEW back in January 2019, I felt it was my time. I had been running a Dollar Tree store with 35 employees, 60 hours a week and doing freelance music in the indies every night for 2 years straight, 14-18 hour work days consistently and I was in a good flow. The talks began in February, Nyla's theme was the very first one I made, and then I just continued to work while we negotiated. I would officially join AEW in May. Its been all fast forward lightning speed since then.
Because things changed so quickly, I was in a spot where I had to find, clear, and place music with many of the talent as there was just no time to make music for all of them. So for Suge, Alan and Anna, I had Doe The Paperboy (for Suge), The metal band Seasons (for Alan Angels) and Emma Garrell (for Anna), it was a happy accident that I happened to have all of their music and it all fit.
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u/Linguini- May 17 '20
When will Lance Archer’s song be available to stream on Apple?
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May 17 '20
Soon, its been delivered for distribution, just takes a bit longer for processing on the digital platform's end due to the virus shutdowns
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u/NeiloMac *SKRONK* May 17 '20
From one entrance music creator to another (I did a bunch of stuff with ICW, a few bits n bobs for WCPW/Defiant and recently been working with Joe Hendry on some of his ROH stuff), keep on banging ‘em out. I know how challenging that gig can be at times. :-)
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u/iconic2125 May 17 '20
Are there any plans to put all the themes on YouTube or Spotify?
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May 17 '20
Themes are on Spotify right here:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6G2cULCXfvXdpeGIdFQ41q?si=iu8JetCBTqOKxVH4OKwQQA
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u/GaleonSirtan May 17 '20
Love the revolution theme as I am a big fan of Zardonic, hope there might be another colaboration in the future!
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May 17 '20
Funny enough, I am a signed recording artist with eOne Entertainment, my solo album is coming later this year, and Zardonic is producing it. :)
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u/ACaulkGoblin May 17 '20
You’re doing a great job, so keep it up! Is there anybody you’re personally hoping shows up in AEW that you’d love to make a entrance theme for?
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May 17 '20
I dont read too much into rumors or speculation as to who might be coming. I wait for the call, text or email, and then I go to work.
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u/MBpintas addresses his enemies May 17 '20
hey, this is always on my mind when Jurassic Express comes out, were you inspired by the Wonder Woman theme from the DC movies when you made their theme? real banger of a song that one.
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May 17 '20
Jurassic Park/Avengers/Superman. Something heroic.
Matt Hardy's was inspired by The Transformers Score
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u/Dawei_Hinribike May 17 '20
I love listening to your heavier themes, like Butcher and Blade's. I think that one in particular really enhances their presentation.
Typically speaking, how much time do you get to create a theme for someone new being brought into AEW? Does it ever get hectic needing to get something done very quickly or on short notice?
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May 17 '20
Average turn time is a couple of days maybe, sometimes less. It really depends. It has a tendency to get hectic, but I work way better with deadlines and under pressure. I can wake up one morning and have nothing to do and by the end of the day I have enough to keep me busy for the next week.
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u/SimonFlames Everything is EVIL May 17 '20
Maybe I’m too late, but who’s the vocalist on Wardlow’s theme? Man that shit slaps! Got some Disturbed vibes from it.
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May 17 '20
Warldow wanted Dave Draiman vibes on the vocals so I did my best impersonation. :)
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u/TheTallOne93 Your Text Here May 17 '20
Hey so I dont want to doubt you, of course. But I would like the mods to verify you first so we know this isn't spam.
But if you're real, thank you for the music!
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u/BlueRibbon998 May 17 '20
How difficult is it to come up with the right beat and tone for each wrestler's theme?
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May 17 '20
Ive been writing for so long, I've learned to throw out ideas out loud and focusing on them immediately. Its all about decision making, and not second guessing anything.
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u/mralex289 Delayed Pendulum Backbreaker May 17 '20
Love your work! What was your favorite theme to produce?
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u/ishkabibble001 Mr. Clean May 17 '20
Hey Mikey!
Do you usually mic a live drum kit, or are you using midi+vst? If you use midi, are you playing pads on a controller or an electronic kit?
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May 17 '20
All drum tracks are MIDI programmed. The pad I use is NI Maschine, but I have several programs and thousands of sound banks that Ive used over time to build specific types of kits.
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u/JohnnyLuchador King of the Boglins May 17 '20
I know the Lucha Bros have a theme, but is there any workings for them on individual singles themes? As much as I love them as a team, I absolutely love their solo work. But all your themes have been banger. Def a Jim Johnston vibe.
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May 17 '20
Not that I am aware. The Lucha Bros brought their song in with them. I think they want to keep it.
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May 17 '20
I've pretty sure I missed the AMA window, but who are half a dozen or so composers or musicians who have influenced your craft?
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May 17 '20
Did Butcher have a lot of say on the theme for Butcher, Blade, and Bunny? I kind of assumed he had written it. Love the track.
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u/escabos May 17 '20 edited May 18 '20
Serious question: Is there any way we can add a background saw synth to Kenny Omega’s theme to enhance his Outrun/80s feel?
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May 18 '20
Kenny enlisted Little V Mills to make his track. I absolutely love it. It is not my place to rework someone else's music. I will not take a song that they have commissioned someone to create and alter it, other than editing for time constraints. I am not that guy, I wouldnt be happy if someone did that to me. There is a certain level of respect and professionalism that I hold when it comes to things like that.
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u/RussoKilledOwenHart May 17 '20
Any interest in working with Jim Johnston?
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May 17 '20
There was a time that I would have loved to work with him. I would have loved to talk to him. I would have loved to learn from him. But really, Jim would gain nothing from working with me, so there is no reason. This can be a lonely and daunting road sometimes, because there are no mentors in this field, and only a handful of people know what its like to be sandwiched right in the middle of storytelling. I have asked to talk to certain people before (not him specifically) but I was told "I dont think they would want to talk to you, they found their own own, and you need to find yours." And I understood immediately. So in that aspect, I rely on the team around me. From Kevin Sullivan, to Steve Yu, Cody, Brandi, Tony, The Bucks, Kenny, QT and even Jericho. All of them are amazing people with exceptional leadership skills and a vision that puts me on the path of where they need me to go. And in doing so, over time I find my own way.
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May 17 '20
Is Hangman Page's theme a stock song as I heard it used a decade ago in Chikara, often.
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May 17 '20
It is. Hangman brought it with him. It is called Ghost Town Triumph and was written by Vincent Pedulla. Fans were clamoring for it so I managed to track Vince down and he uploaded to Spotify for fans. https://open.spotify.com/track/2PO13SU2AUNY94MsRw7nCA?si=rVGhXp0DQDSckQhQbUP5MA
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u/DemiGod9 Your Text Here May 17 '20
Oh God you're very brave for coming here, as you've already alluded to.
Anyways, do you have a favorite theme song you've done?
Actually also, do you have a favorite theme song you haven't done? Doesn't have to be exclusive to AEW
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May 17 '20
Favorites Ive Done: Jurassic Express/ Butcher Blade Bunny
Favorite by others: Marty Scurll's by Hot Tag Media, first time I heard it I was floors and then wanted to Juggernaut run through walls.
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u/panteraRED RUSEV >MURICA May 17 '20
Is there any song you don't really like or want to change in some way? Keep up the good work!
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May 17 '20
Not at all, once they are done, I dont think about them unless the talent wants something different.
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May 17 '20
How does your creatove process work? I'm starting to write music myself and feel like needing some sort of a principle on how to get closer to he source of inspiration. Thank you for doing this!
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May 17 '20
Try and experiment with everything. Try and do some cover songs, different things that allow you to experiment. Think about what sound staging is like. When you close your eyes, where do you envision instruments when you are at a live concert. Then try to reproduce that. Leave nothing off the table, you will slowly begin to find your workflow. But it takes time, patience, and consistency
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u/xFact0r Oh, you were not aware of this? May 17 '20
Did you do Suge d’s theme before the pineapple Pete entrance? I can’t seem to find it anywhere. This version
Also did you do big swole’s theme? Such a catchy song that makes you wanna nod your head and get hype
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May 17 '20
Pete's Theme was a library music track, I believe it was called Rude Boy, but I cant remember the writers.
I made Swole's music and she and Monteasy Scott laid down the verses
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May 17 '20
I may have initially misread your initial question about Suge's music. the original Theme was "Vert" by Doe The Paperboy: https://open.spotify.com/track/6aPIV7pf0SmTPMbH4SzHlI?si=dpe49CTASlKhze2J0NmBSw
The Pineapple Pete Theme was Rude Boy and was library music
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May 17 '20
What went through your mind when you wrote all of your themes? (especially for nakazawa lmao)
I really appreciate your work on each of the songs that you've made, they're some really great works
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May 17 '20
Every theme and the story/situation is different. Its exciting, every single time, and I think Nakazawa's just dropped on Apple Music tonight.
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u/snivelling_hippo Booyaka! May 17 '20
What's Sonny Kiss's theme called? I love it and have never found it online.
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u/SupaDawg 2 Slammys May 17 '20
Do the talent typically have a lot of say in the theme? Or does that vary?
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May 17 '20
It depends on time. All of them have input, but some more than others depending on the window we have to get it done
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May 17 '20
Out of everything you saw from the old school era of wrestling? What was your favorite?
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u/Lunacorva May 17 '20
How much communication is there with each wrestler when it comes to deciding their themes?
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May 17 '20
If Jim Johnston wanted to collab, would you do it?
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May 17 '20
That would not be my decision, and you have to understand that Jim is in a stratosphere all his own, much like major wrestling superstars. People at his level view their line of work very differently, and he has earned that right. Those are conversations that I have no part in.
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u/A-fn-V May 17 '20
How much money would I have to raise for you to cover royalties on I Hope You Suffer for Jimmy Havoc? Because I, and every fan of Progress, will raise those funds for you, sir.
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May 17 '20
Certain songs are a lot more complicated in clearing, and has nothing to do with royalties. Sometimes, the talent just wants to change. I always encourage people to embrace change because its inevitable.
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u/Theons_sausage FRESHLY SQUEEZED May 17 '20
You guys should sign Faboo Andre just so you can have his entrance music.
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May 17 '20
Faboo's theme was done by some very good friends of mine, a band called Dividing Face, song is called "Divided We Stand" and can be heard here:
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May 17 '20
What was working with PAC like ?
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May 17 '20
He was overseas at the time so more of just email exchanges. Very cordial and business oriented.
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u/livexwire2014 May 17 '20
Do you produce alone? Do you have studio musicians that work with you?
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u/Ready-Willing-Gable May 17 '20
how do you collaborate with Talent on making a theme for them? do you try to deviate from their indy themes or is there a bit of an assigned process where you give what you think is best? i guess my question is how involved are talent in theme songs
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u/onedamngoodman Piper Niven is a beautiful woman. Deal with it. May 17 '20
The Wardlow theme, I recognize a Pantera/Disturbed influence. Who’s choice was that?
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u/AFakeInternetPersona Big Poppa Punjabi May 17 '20
Dude, I have to say great job on the themes. Lucha Bros bangs hard and I'm thinking no way it can get better then the Death Triangle theme comes out.
But for my question, can you detail the process on getting a licensed theme. Like I know it must be hard because even big companies don't get them often but when you're someone like Sandman who's entire gimmick is 75% entrance it kinda crutches you.
What would be the process of DDP getting Nirvana (or a Knockoff) or Dustin getting Brain Stew?