DK Rap Composer Reveals Reason for Lack of Credit in Super Mario Bros. Movie

Grant Kirkhope, renowned for composing the music for games like Donkey Kong 64, shared insights into why he wasn't credited for the DK Rap in The Super Mario Bros. Movie. In a conversation with Eurogamer, Kirkhope revealed that Nintendo chose not to credit composers for any music it owns, except for Koji Kondo. The policy initially allowed for vocal tracks to be credited, which should have included the DK Rap, but this was later overturned because Nintendo also owns the rights to the song.

Kirkhope expressed his disappointment, noting that by the time the credits roll, most audiences have left the theater. He lamented the lack of recognition, especially since his family was among the few who stayed to see if his name would appear. In a 2023 social media post, Kirkhope shared his frustration, stating, "I was really looking forward to see my name in the credits for the DK Rap, but alas as expected it's not there ........ fml."

Interestingly, while the DK Rap and Bowser's Fury went uncredited, licensed tracks in the film did receive proper acknowledgments. Kirkhope described the use of the DK Rap in the movie as "bizarre," suggesting it was simply sampled from the N64 game and looped. He contributed guitar to the original track, while members of Rare performed the iconic "D-K" chant, yet none received credits.

When asked about the potential inclusion of the DK Rap in the Nintendo Music App, Kirkhope speculated it was possible but noted Nintendo's lukewarm reception to Donkey Kong 64, hinting at internal sentiments at the company during his time at Rare.

Eurogamer also touched on the absence of Donkey Kong 64 from the N64 Switch Online lineup, although elements like the Rambi theme might feature in Donkey Kong Bananza. Kirkhope's full interview with Eurogamer delves into more topics, including the prospects of a new Banjo Kazooie game and the nostalgic appeal of game soundtracks.

Looking ahead, a new Super Mario Bros. movie is in development, set to be released in April 2026.