Shinsuke Nakamura’s entrance theme, “Rising Sun,” is a defining element of his WWE persona from the moment he debuted. The violinist behind this iconic sound, Count Manain of Seven Suns, recently shared how the track was created. He revealed that when WWE music producer CFO$ first contacted him to record the piece, he had no idea what it was for.
Manain explained that upon arriving at the studio, he found that CFO$ already had a complete MIDI demo ready. They wanted him to add a distinctive touch with his violin playing. Although the structure and main riff were set, Manain had the freedom to experiment. The CFO$ team had envisioned a violin part but left the details to his creativity.
He used both electric and acoustic violins for the recording. The electric violin, processed through an amplifier simulator, provided a deep, contemporary sound, while the acoustic violin carried the melody. Manain emphasized that the acoustic violin played the main theme.
During the session, Manain improvised many solos and unique riffs spontaneously. However, his improvisation was not random; it was rooted in his extensive experience and practiced musical phrases. These solos are natural extensions of his musical style, honed over years of playing.
Interestingly, though not a wrestling fan himself, Manain understood the importance of creating hype and excitement for the audience. He recognized the role his music played in amplifying Nakamura’s entrance and energizing WWE viewers.
Ultimately, the theme not only thrilled fans but also significantly bolstered Nakamura’s presence on WWE television, all stemming from a session Manain almost forgot about.
— Fan Take: This insight into the creation of Nakamura’s iconic entrance theme highlights how vital music is in shaping WWE characters and moments. For WWE fans, it reinforces how behind-the-scenes artistry contributes to the excitement and emotional connection that make wrestling unforgettable.
