Throughout his extensive career, Hulk Hogan made numerous appearances in Japan, particularly in New Japan Pro-Wrestling during the early 1980s. During this time, he became a notable figure, earning the moniker "Ichiban," which means "number one" in Japanese. His immense popularity in Japan led him to record a four-track disco-funk EP in 1983, named after his nickname.
The EP features Hogan as the vocalist and bassist, backed by session musicians, presenting a quirky piece of memorabilia from that era. The lead track, "Ichiban," showcases Hogan singing in a faux Southern accent over a bassline reminiscent of Lips’s "Funky Town." While the production may be rough, the songs present a unique charm, especially as Hogan ventures into disco with "You Now Leave" and an anthem titled "Ax Bomber."
Though these tracks don’t hold legendary status, they offer a sense of entertainment that adds to Hogan’s eclectic career. While his vocal skills might be debatable, his bass playing shines through, highlighting a rhythm that brings some life to the songs. The EP was exclusive to Japan and never attained a "classic" label. Following Hogan’s passing at 71, Warner Music’s Rhino label made the EP available online, further acknowledging his multifaceted legacy.
Fan Take: This revelation about Hogan’s musical venture adds another layer to his already storied career, reminding wrestling fans of the cultural impact he had even beyond the ring. It showcases the varied expressions of wrestlers as entertainers, emphasizing that their legacies can extend into unexpected realms like music.
