Why Did WWE Stop Using Goldberg's Theme from 2003-2004 and Not Use His WCW Theme?

The iconic wrestler Goldberg has left a lasting impression on the world of professional wrestling, particularly within the WWE. One fascinating aspect of his career is the evolution of his themes over different time periods. This article delves into the reasons behind the changes in Goldberg's themes during his time from 2003 to 2004 and why WWE did not use his original WCW theme during his first WWE run.

WWE and the Departure of Goldberg (2003-2004)

WWErsquo;s decision to stop using Goldberg's theme from 2003 to 2004 was primarily due to his departure from the company. His original WWE theme, composed by Bill Conti, was associated with his brief run in WWE before he left the promotion following WrestleMania XX in 2004. Character shifts, brand changes, and the desire to create a fresh identity for wrestlers often influence theme changes.

Licensing Issues and Character Separation

The reasons behind WWE not using Goldberg's WCW theme during his first run in WWE in 2003 are more complex. These include licensing issues. WWE generally wants complete control over the music they use. Creating an original composition might have been preferred to avoid complications related to the rights of the WCW theme. Additionally, WWE aimed to establish Goldberg's character in a new context separate from his WCW legacy. This shift was further supported by having a theme that better fit the WWE environment.

The Sound Differences and License Disputes

Themes are also trademarked, and WWE had to create their own versions. To the untrained ear, some similarities might be noticeable between the WCW and WWE themes, but they are not identical. Goldbergrsquo;s WWE theme, while sounding somewhat similar to his original WCW theme, has a slight twist that makes it more upbeat. The WCW version is more of a march, whereas the WWE version is less somber.

The WWE doesn't actually own the rights to the theme music that he had in WCW. They licensed it from a production company, just as WCW did. This is why WWE had to change his music in 2003. The reason for the cessation of using the WWE version lies in the popularity of the WCW version, which was retained. Furthermore, the WCW version was not created by WCW themselves. Instead, it was produced by Bill Conti, making ownership and licensing issues even more complicated.

Raw Episode and Main Event Dynamics

Interestingly, WWE utilized Goldberg's WCW theme in a specific episode of Raw in 2003. This happened when he first appeared on WWE Raw following WrestleMania 19 and confronted The Rock for the first time. The theme was still in use for a few weeks until the WWE replaced it with their version at the Backlash pay-per-view when Goldberg wrestled The Rock in the main event. This decision might have been made to maintain the character's continuity and avoid conflicts with licensing agreements.

Understanding the nuances of Goldberg's themes offers a deeper perspective on the complexities involved in professional wrestling, particularly regarding character development, licensing, and brand identity. Goldberg's journey in the WWE remains a remarkable part of wrestling history, showcasing the meticulous planning behind each element of his persona.