WWE Raw has been one of the most iconic professional wrestling shows since its debut in 1993. Over the years, its theme songs have played a pivotal role in setting the tone and energy for the show. These themes encapsulate the intensity, drama, and excitement of the WWE experience. Here’s a look at some of the notable WWE Raw theme songs throughout its history:
1. “All Together Now” by Anthrax (1993–1995)
The debut theme set the foundation for Monday Night Raw, a revolutionary live wrestling show. The instrumental, with its gritty rock elements, reflected the raw energy of early ’90s wrestling, introducing fans to a new era of weekly sports entertainment.
2. “Thorn in Your Eye” by WWE Superstars & Slam Jam (1995–2002)
This song came to define the Attitude Era, with its heavy guitar riffs and rebellious undertones. Featuring vocals from wrestlers and rock musicians, the track symbolized WWE’s edgy content and breaking-the-rules mentality that dominated late ’90s pop culture.
3. “Across the Nation” by Union Underground (2002–2006)
This theme marked WWE’s evolution after the Attitude Era, leaning into nu-metal and hard rock. Its upbeat tempo and powerful vocals mirrored WWE’s focus on spectacle and athleticism.
4. “To Be Loved” by Papa Roach (2006–2009)
During the Ruthless Aggression Era, WWE needed a theme that reflected its stars like John Cena, Randy Orton, and Batista. Papa Roach’s track offered a mix of rebellion and optimism, signaling the show’s desire to connect with a younger, mainstream audience.
5. “Burn It to the Ground” by Nickelback (2009–2012)
As Raw entered its PG Era, this song delivered a punchy, adrenaline-filled intro. With lyrics like “We’re going till the world stops turning,” it captured the excitement of live TV and resonated with a broader audience while maintaining Raw’s aggressive identity.
6. “The Night” by Kromestatik (2012–2016)
This track was darker and moodier compared to its predecessors. The atmospheric vibe highlighted WWE’s focus on storytelling, with a polished production that reflected the company’s global expansion and its shift to embracing new technology and social media.
7. “Enemies” by Shinedown (2016–2018)
Raw’s theme shifted back to aggressive hard rock, reflecting a return to high-octane wrestling action. The lyrics about confrontation and rivalry perfectly suited WWE’s stories of betrayal, revenge, and competition.
8. “Born for Greatness” by Papa Roach (2018)
While it wasn’t the main Raw theme for long, this motivational anthem was used during special promos and pay-per-view tie-ins. It reinforced the concept of wrestlers as modern-day heroes overcoming challenges.
9. “Legendary” by Skillet (2019–2023)
Skillet’s empowering anthem celebrated Raw’s enduring legacy and the athletes who define it. The track’s inspirational vibe, combined with its heavy rock edge, embodied WWE’s mission to create legendary moments in sports entertainment.
10. “Greatness” by def rebel (2023–Present)
This modern track features a mix of hip-hop beats and rock influences, showcasing WWE’s contemporary approach. Def rebel, WWE’s in-house music group, delivers a sound that appeals to both long-time fans and newer audiences, reflecting the show’s evolving identity.
Honorable Mentions:
- “WWE Signature Openers”: Before each show, WWE’s short signature themes have also evolved, often featuring a tagline like “Then. Now. Forever.” to hype the brand’s history.
- PPV Crossovers: Songs from Raw often cross into WWE’s Pay-Per-Views, amplifying their recognition.
- Superstar Themes: Individual entrance music often rivals the Raw theme in popularity, contributing to the show’s overall atmosphere.
These theme songs not only define the eras of WWE Raw but also connect emotionally with fans, making them an essential part of WWE’s identity.
