2K Sports has unveiled the official soundtrack for the upcoming wrestling simulation game, WWE 2K23, and it comes with a personal touch from one of the industry's most iconic figures. John Cena, the 16-time world champion and Hollywood actor, curated the 12-song playlist, marking his first time as executive producer on a WWE game since his appearance on the cover two decades ago. The soundtrack blends rock, hip-hop, Latin, and electronic influences, reflecting Cena's eclectic musical taste.
John Cena’s Role as Executive Producer
John Cena’s involvement in WWE 2K23 goes beyond lending his image. As executive producer, he oversaw the game’s creative direction, including the soundtrack. In a promotional tweet, 2K Sports wrote, “The Thuganomics Doctor, John Cena, has left his personal mark on the WWE 2K23 soundtrack as executive producer. Listen now.” This marks Cena’s return to the cover after his appearance on WWE 2K15 in 2015, and his first as producer.
Cena’s connection to music runs deep. His entrance theme, “The Time Is Now,” has become synonymous with his wrestling persona. In 2004, he contributed “Basic Thuganomics” to the WWE 2K soundtrack, a nod to his early rap career. Over the years, Cena has performed at WrestleMania, released a rap album, and even hosted Saturday Night Live. His curation of the WWE 2K23 soundtrack reflects his ability to fuse commercial appeal with underground edge.
Full Track List and Analysis
The soundtrack features a diverse lineup:
- Metallica – “Sad But True”
- Bizarrap & Quevedo – “BZRP Music Sessions Vol. 52”
- Doja Cat – “Vegas”
- Luciano – “SUVs”
- Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Can’t Stop”
- Joyner Lucas & Lil Baby – “Ramen & OJ”
- Hardy – “Jack”
- Bullet For My Valentine – “No More Tears”
- Del V ft. Omar Courtz – “Dame Lu”
- Letdown. – “Shipwreck”
- Idles – “Grounds”
- Post Malone ft. Ozzy Osbourne, Travis Scott – “Take What You Want”
Metallica’s “Sad But True” is a classic thrash metal anthem from their self-titled 1991 album, often used in WWE video packages. The inclusion of Bizarrap and Quevedo’s Latin trap hit highlights the growing global influence on wrestling soundtracks. Doja Cat’s “Vegas,” from the Elvis soundtrack, brings a modern pop flair. Luciano, a German rapper, marks the first time a German-language track appears on a WWE 2K soundtrack, reflecting the franchise’s international appeal.
Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Can’t Stop” is a staple of alternative rock, while Joyner Lucas and Lil Baby deliver hard-hitting hip-hop. Hardy’s “Jack” represents country-rock, and Bullet For My Valentine’s “No More Tears” is a metalcore cover originally by Ozzy Osbourne. Del V and Omar Courtz offer reggaeton, while Letdown. provides emo-rap. Idles’ “Grounds” is a post-punk banger, and Post Malone’s collaboration with Ozzy Osbourne and Travis Scott blends pop, rock, and hip-hop.
Background on the WWE 2K Franchise
The WWE 2K series has been published by 2K Sports since 2013, replacing the WWE SmackDown vs. Raw series. Each year, the soundtrack is carefully curated to match the game’s energy. Previous soundtracks have included artists like Imagine Dragons, Post Malone, and Eminem. The 2023 edition, WWE 2K23, features a revamped gameplay engine, enhanced graphics, and a new “WarGames” mode. John Cena’s involvement is expected to boost sales, as he remains one of the most recognizable figures in entertainment.
Cena’s career spans over two decades in WWE, with legendary feuds against the likes of The Rock, Randy Orton, and Brock Lesnar. His transition to Hollywood has been equally successful, with roles in Fast & Furious 9, Blockers, and the upcoming Peacemaker series. Despite his acting commitments, Cena has maintained a strong connection to WWE, making occasional appearances and now contributing to the video game franchise.
Cultural Impact and Fan Reactions
The announcement of John Cena as executive producer and curator of the soundtrack has generated mixed reactions. Some fans applaud the inclusion of diverse genres, while others miss the heavy rock emphasis of older WWE games. The addition of German rapper Luciano is seen as a strategic move to attract European fans. On social media, many users shared their excitement for the classic metal and hip-hop tracks, noting that the soundtrack captures the intensity of professional wrestling.
WWE 2K23 is scheduled for release on March 17, 2023, for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and PC. Alongside the standard edition, a “Bonus” and “Deluxe” edition will be available, offering early access and additional in-game content. The soundtrack will be available on streaming platforms, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the game’s atmosphere before launch.
In conclusion, the collaboration between John Cena and 2K Sports has produced a soundtrack that reflects both Cena’s personal taste and the game’s high-octane nature. With a blend of rock, rap, Latin, and pop, WWE 2K23 aims to appeal to a broad audience, continuing the franchise’s tradition of marrying sports entertainment with music.
Source: Rolling Stone News