WrestleMania's Main Event: A Study of Country Music's Expanding Influence in the Entertainment Industry
WrestleMania’s Main Event: A Study of Country Music’s Expanding Influence in the Entertainment Industry
Table of Contents
- Quick Facts
- Country Crooners Clash with Body Slams
- Toby Keith
- Shania Twain
- Rascal Flatts
- Keith Urban
- Carrie Underwood
- Tim McGraw
- Jon Pardi
Quick Facts
WWE WrestleMania has featured several country stars, bringing their unique sound to the world of professional wrestling.
Country Crooners Clash with Body Slams: A Look at Country Stars Who Performed at WWE WrestleMania
When you think of WWE WrestleMania, you might not immediately associate it with country music. However, over the years, several country stars have taken the stage at WrestleMania, bringing their unique sound to the world of professional wrestling. From traditional country to modern-day crossover artists, these singers have used their talents to rev up the crowd and add a touch of twang to the iconic event.
In this article, we’ll take a look at seven country singers who have performed at WWE WrestleMania, exploring their connection to the world of wrestling and what makes their music so appealing to fans of the squared circle.
1. Toby Keith
Toby Keith is country music royalty, with a career spanning over three decades and a shelf full of accolades, including two Academy of Country Music Awards and three Country Music Association Awards. Keith’s high-energy performance at WrestleMania III in 1987, featuring his hits “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” and “A Little Less Talk and a Lot More Action,” helped to put country music front and center at the event.
What sets Keith apart is his down-to-earth, no-nonsense attitude, which resonates with wrestling fans who appreciate his straightforward, hard-hitting lyrics. Keith’s music is the perfect complement to body-slamming matches and high-flying acrobatics – just ask the thousands of fans who sang along to “Whiskey Girl” during his performance!
2. Shania Twain
Shania Twain is one of the best-selling country artists of all time, with a career that’s spanned multiple genres, from country and pop to rock and adult contemporary. Her electrifying performance at WrestleMania XV in 1999 showcased her ability to captivate an audience of over 22,000 at the First Union Center in Philadelphia.
Twain’s music often deals with themes of empowerment, freedom, and living life on her own terms, which aligns perfectly with the WWE’s “sisterhood” concept, where female wrestlers support and uplift each other. Her chart-topping hits like “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” and “Any Man of Mine” got the crowd jumping, setting the tone for what would become an unforgettable night.
3. Rascal Flatts
Rascal Flatts is a country trio known for their smooth harmonies, catchy songwriting, and versatility, which has led to numerous crossover hits on the pop and adult contemporary charts. At WrestleMania XXIV in 2008, they performed their ballad “Life Is a Highway” during the Hall of Fame ceremony, honoring the inductees.
The group’s success can be attributed to their ability to blend traditional country with modern production, appealing to a wide range of listeners. Their uplifting message and relatable lyrics, such as in their hit “What Hurts the Most,” resonate with WWE fans, who are touched by the emotional moments and storylines that unfold during matches.
4. Keith Urban
Keith Urban, a multi-platinum singer-songwriter and guitarist, has had a profound impact on country music, blending rock, pop, and blues influences into his signature sound. His performance at WrestleMania 22 in 2006 featured the anthemic “Days Go By” and the fan favorite “Somebody Like You.”
Urban’s music often explores themes of love, heartache, and perseverance, mirroring the struggles and triumphs that wrestling athletes face. His guitar-driven sound and dynamic stage presence make him a natural fit for the high-energy atmosphere of WrestleMania, where fan favorites clash and legends rise.
5. Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood, a multi-platinum selling artist and American Idol winner, turned heads with her powerful performance at WrestleMania XXII in 2006. She belted out her hit “Before He Cheats” during the match between John Cena and Edge for the WWE Championship.
Underwood’s music often touches on themes of strong women, perseverance, and overcoming adversity, connecting with female fans in the WWE universe. Her wide vocal range and emotional delivery make her a compelling performer, fitting seamlessly into the world of professional wrestling.
6. Tim McGraw
Tim McGraw is a country icon with a career spanning multiple decades and over 80 million albums sold worldwide. At WrestleMania XIV in 1998, he took the stage with his wife, Faith Hill, performing their duet “It’s Your Love.”
McGraw’s music often deals with themes of love, family, and hope, which resonate with WWE fans who seek inspiration and solace in the uplifting moments during matches. His country-rock sound and memorable performances make him a natural fit for the big stage, where he can connect with thousands of fans.
7. Jon Pardi
Jon Pardi, a rising star in the country music scene, made his WrestleMania debut at WrestleMania 35 in 2019 with a performance of his hit “Heartache Medication.” Pardi’s music often explores themes of heartache, love, and the simple life, which aligns with the blue-collar, hardworking ethos of many WWE fans.
Pardi’s traditional country sound, reminiscent of classic honky-tonk and outlaw country, makes him a great fit for the WWE’s nostalgic appeal. His energetic stage presence and versatility in blending different styles create a captivating experience for fans, weaving country and wrestling into an unforgettable package.