It’s fascinating to consider the evolution of music in wrestling. From carnival sideshows to the territorial era of the 1950s, talent would enter the ring without music. This starkly contrasted to the spectacle we see today, with its elaborate entrances and character themes. It was more like an actual fight: no flash, just crash.
Mildred Burke, Gorgeous George, and Chris Colt were among the pioneers who recognized the potential of music in wrestling. They used music to enhance their characters and create an intimidating atmosphere for their opponents. Whether George’s “Pomp and Circumstance” or Colt’s use of Alice Cooper, their contributions continue to influence not only wrestling but much of combat sports.
Two side-notes here: Gorgeous George’s theme, which you can hear at graduation ceremonies all over the world, would eventually be made famous by a certain “Macho Man,” for whom this song is just as associated with him as the Slim Jim brand or even the phrase, “Oh yeah!”
George’s flamboyant personality and trash-talking also inspired people outside of wrestling, including James Brown and, even more notably and prominently, Muhammad Ali. Without wrestling, there is no Ali.
Anyway, music is a vital part of the presentation, and, as you can guess, the next aspect we’ll discuss in the presentation of “The Wrestling Journalist” Armon Owlia. We have already defined our parameters regarding personality and attire. I would recommend looking back to read more, and I won’t go into mind-numbing details here. Still, the main thing to remember is that this persona combines journalistic integrity with wrestling intensity.
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