Cody Rhodes’ return to WWE in 2022 was a momentous occasion for wrestling fans.  Beyond his electrifying presence in the ring, his entrance music, “Kingdom,” instantly captured attention.  

This powerful and catchy theme song serves as the sonic embodiment of Cody’s persona, “The American Nightmare.”  Let’s delve into the story behind “Kingdom,” exploring its creation, lyrical meaning, impact on fans, and its place in wrestling history.

From Dusty’s Dream to Cody’s Anthem: The Birth of “Kingdom”

The origins of “Kingdom” lie not just with Cody Rhodes, but with his legendary father, Dusty Rhodes.  Dusty, a wrestling icon himself, always envisioned his son reaching the pinnacle of the sport.  

He would often tell Cody, “Hard times breed better men,” a quote that would become a central theme in their lives.

Following his departure from WWE in 2016, Cody embarked on a journey of self-reinvention, establishing himself as a major force in independent wrestling and other promotions.  

During this time, he decided it was crucial to have a theme song that truly reflected his new identity.

Teaming up with the Florida-based rock band Downstait, Cody envisioned a powerful and anthemic song that captured the essence of his journey.  He shared his vision with the band, emphasizing the importance of Dusty’s words and his own determination to become a champion.

Downstait, understanding the emotional weight associated with the project, crafted a song that perfectly encapsulated Cody’s story.  The result was “Kingdom,” a hard-hitting rock anthem with soaring vocals and a driving rhythm section.

Breaking Down the Lyrics: A Message of Perseverance

“Kingdom” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a lyrical manifesto for Cody Rhodes.  Let’s explore the meaning behind some key lines:

“Whoa! (Hard times breed better men) Whoa! (Hard times breed better men)”  This opening chant directly references Dusty’s words, highlighting the struggles Cody has overcome and how they have shaped him into a stronger competitor.

“This ain’t your father’s game, this ain’t your father’s name”  This line acknowledges the legacy of Dusty Rhodes while establishing Cody’s own identity.

“We built this empire from the ground, brick by brick, round by round”  This powerful statement showcases Cody’s dedication and hard work in carving his own path in the wrestling world.

The lyrics of “Kingdom” resonate with fans who have faced adversity and persevered.  It’s a message of determination, self-belief, and ultimately, achieving one’s dreams against all odds.

The “Woo!”: A Fan Favorite Ritual

One of the most captivating aspects of “Kingdom” is the now-iconic crowd participation during the opening “Whoa!” chants. It started organically during Cody’s independent wrestling days and has transcended promotions, becoming a signature element of his entrance.

Kingdom’s Legacy: A Modern Classic in Wrestling History

“Kingdom” has cemented itself as a modern classic in the world of wrestling themes.  It’s instantly recognizable, perfectly capturing the essence of Cody Rhodes’ character and his journey in the ring.  Here’s why “Kingdom” stands out:

Memorable Melody:  

The driving guitar riffs, catchy chorus, and soaring vocals create a memorable soundscape that stays with fans long after the song fades.

Thematic Cohesion:  

The lyrics perfectly complement Cody’s persona, conveying his determination, respect for his past, and unwavering ambition.

Fan Interaction:  

The “Woo!” chants foster a sense of community and participation, further elevating Cody’s entrance and creating a truly electric atmosphere.

“Kingdom” isn’t just a song; it’s a symbol of Cody Rhodes’ unwavering spirit. It’s a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to carve your own path in the face of adversity.  Whether Cody reaches the pinnacle of WWE remains to be seen, but there’s no doubt that “Kingdom” will forever be etched in the memory of wrestling fans.

FAQs

Q: What is the name of Cody Rhodes’ current WWE theme song?

A: Cody Rhodes’ current theme song is called “Kingdom.”

Q: When did “Kingdom” debut as Cody Rhodes’ theme song?

A: “Kingdom” debuted on the April 3rd, 2022 episode of WrestleMania 38, marking Cody Rhodes’ triumphant return to WWE.

Q: Who created Cody Rhodes’ theme song “Kingdom”?

A: Cody Rhodes collaborated with a band called Downstait to create “Kingdom.”

Q: Was there any inspiration behind the theme song’s title or lyrics?

A: There’s speculation that “Kingdom” references both Cody’s wrestling legacy and his desire to establish his own dominance within the WWE.

Q: What genre of music is Cody Rhodes’ theme song?

A: “Kingdom” falls under the rock genre with a heavy metal influence.

Q: What are some of the key features of the song?

A: “Kingdom” features a powerful guitar riff, driving drums, and Cody’s signature “Woohoo!” vocalization incorporated into the music.

Q: How did fans react to Cody Rhodes’ theme song?

A: “Kingdom” was met with a positive reception from fans, becoming a popular entrance anthem for Cody Rhodes.

Q: Can I listen to Cody Rhodes’ theme song “Kingdom” online?

A: You might find the song or fan uploads on music streaming platforms or video sharing websites. However, copyright restrictions might apply.

Q: Where can I find the full lyrics to Cody Rhodes’ theme song?

A: You can find the full lyrics to “Kingdom” on various wrestling fan websites or online lyric repositories.

Q:  Do the lyrics of “Kingdom” hold any deeper meaning?

A: Some fans interpret the lyrics as a declaration of Cody’s resilience and his journey to achieve wrestling greatness.

Q:  Is there a specific line in the song that stands out?

A: The line “Hard times breed better men” is a recurring theme, potentially referencing Cody’s time outside of WWE and his personal growth.

Q:  Does the song mention any past achievements or rivalries of Cody Rhodes?

A: The lyrics don’t directly reference past events, focusing more on a general message of perseverance and dominance.

Q:  Has Cody Rhodes ever used a different theme song in WWE?

A: Yes, before “Kingdom,” Cody wrestled under the “Dashing” Cody Rhodes persona with a different theme song.

Q:  Is “Kingdom” likely to remain Cody Rhodes’ theme song for the foreseeable future?

A: It’s difficult to say definitively. Wrestlers sometimes change theme songs based on character development or creative decisions.

Q:  If Cody Rhodes left WWE again, could he still use “Kingdom” as his theme song?

A: This depends on copyright ownership of the song. If Cody co-owns it, he might have some usage rights.

Q:  How does “Kingdom” compare to other popular WWE theme songs?

A: “Kingdom” stands out for its rock influence and empowering message, contributing to the diverse soundscape of WWE themes.

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