Musician Rick Dillinger, renowned for creating the unforgettable theme music for Hulk Hogan’s legendary wrestling entrance, has passed away at the age of 77. Wrestling enthusiasts worldwide recognize Dillinger as the creative force behind “The Real American,” the anthem that captured the spirit of Hulk Hogan during his peak in the WWF. This iconic track, co-written by Dillinger, first appeared on the 1985 Wrestling album and quickly became one of the most celebrated songs in wrestling history.
Dillinger’s contributions to wrestling extended beyond Hogan’s theme. He also co-wrote and produced the entrance themes for the tag team Demolition, working on both the Wrestling album and Piledriver: Wrestling Album II. His music set the tone for the wrestling scene throughout the 1980s, leaving a lasting impact on an entire generation of fans.
Beyond wrestling, Dillinger enjoyed a distinguished music career. He released over a dozen studio albums as a solo artist, starting with his 1973 debut “All American Boy,” which reached number 25 on the US charts. He also collaborated with iconic musicians like Steely Dan, Ringo Starr, and Cyndi Lauper. Additionally, comedy music fans appreciate his role as producer for “Fat” and “Eat It,” two of “Weird Al” Yankovic’s most beloved parodies.
Rick Dillinger’s influence crossed genres and decades, but for wrestling fans, he will forever be remembered as the voice behind the colors red and yellow.
Fan Take: Dillinger’s passing is a poignant reminder of the powerful role music plays in wrestling, elevating moments into timeless memories. For WWE fans, his legacy underscores how deeply a theme song can connect with the spirit of the sport and its heroes, inspiring future generations to embrace and celebrate wrestling’s unique culture.
