AEW has enhanced its product for viewers at home by securing licensed songs for talent to use as part of their entrances.
Bryan Danielson has used "Final Countdown," Jon Moxley uses "Wild Thing," Orange Cassidy uses "Jane," and more.
Whether they have licensed songs for one event or video package, or songs are used as full-time themes, Tony Khan likes using well-known songs to increase the viewing and live experience.
Speaking at Starrcast, AEW attorney Christopher Peck discussed securing licensed songs and some of the tougher asks he's had to make.
"The one that I was most proud of that we got cleared was the Rolling Stones song. That was one where the firm came back to me and said, 'Tell Tony we're not getting this, it's not happening.' 'No, we're gonna go for it.' This is a firm that works with the NFL and other organizations. 'Listen, it's been 30 years I've been doing this, we're not getting it.' We went through the process and the approval came through. I've never seen Tony so happy. His eyes lit up like a Christmas tree. Final Countdown was another one. That was one we went back and forth and were working with the rights holders. When that came through, just as a wrestling fan, that was a cool moment," said Peck. "We go down swinging. I always tell guys, 'we might not get it.' An example for this past week, I flew in on Friday (before AEW All In) and got a request at five eastern for a song for Sunday. That's not going to happen, it's two days from now."
AEW secured "Sympathy For The Devil" for MJF to use at AEW All Out 2022. Bryan Danielson has used "Final Countdown" for AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door and AEW All Out 2023.
When asked which song was the closest call in getting approval, Peck replied, "Kansas, for The Elite, that was one where I was getting calls and texts during the show trying to chase it down. We had an alternate track. I don't think we had it locked in until the show was in progress."
The Elite (Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks) use "Wayward Son" as their trios entrance.
Elsewhere during the podcast, Peck revealed a time where a wrestler wanted to bring a hatcher to the ring. You can find his full comments by clicking here.
If you use any of the quotes above, please credit the original source with a h/t and link back to Fightful for the transcription.
