Has there ever been a bigger banger than Donkey Kong 64’s intro jam, DK Rap? If you needed a hint, the answer is a resounding no. Released way back in 1999, DK Rap is as iconic a Nintendo tune as any ever brought to life. Composed by Grant Kirkhope (GoldenEye 007, Banjo-Kazooie, Perfect Dark), the character of Donkey Kong wouldn’t be the same without Kirkhope’s stellar songwriting.
Yet, to the internet’s overwhelming terror, Grant Kirkhope was not credited for his work once all was said and done after The Super Mario Bros. Movie. In a twist that no one saw coming, Nintendo and Illumination straight up snubbed our boy Grant Kirkhope. For shame, you wayward movie makers, for shame.
There it is, clear as crystal. Kirkhope was not credited for his work on the DK Rap, and fans around the globe won’t stand for it. If anyone is “the leader of the bunch,” it’s Grant Kirkhope. After all, he was the original member of the DK Crew.
Our guess would be that due to certain legalities, Nintendo and Illumination simply didn’t have to give Kirkhope credit — all done in (theoretically) an effort to save out on the money they’d have to pay him in royalties. Again, for shame.
Sadly, there’s probably not much anyone can do about a move like this, but that hasn’t stopped fans from sharing their support. In the end, we ALL know who’s responsible for bringing DK Rap to life. Stay strong, Grant.