DK Rap Composer Discusses Lack of Credit in Super Mario Bros. Movie

Grant Kirkhope, renowned for composing the DK Rap among other iconic game soundtracks, shared insights into why he wasn't credited in The Super Mario Bros. Movie for the use of his famous composition. In a candid interview with Eurogamer, Kirkhope revealed that Nintendo decided not to credit composers for any music they own, with the exception of Koji Kondo. Initially, songs with vocals were slated for credits, which would have included the DK Rap, but this policy was later reversed if Nintendo owned the rights to the music.

Kirkhope expressed his disappointment, noting the irony of the situation where only he and his family remained in the theater to see the credits roll, hoping to spot his name. He lamented the minimal effort it would have taken to include a few lines of text acknowledging his contribution. His frustration was also publicly shared on social media in 2023, where he tweeted his dismay at not seeing his name in the movie credits.

The DK Rap, sampled directly from the N64 game and looped in the film, was described by Kirkhope as a "bizarre" inclusion. Despite his guitar work and the vocal contributions from the "lads from Rare," none received recognition in the movie's credits. Meanwhile, other licensed tracks in the film were properly credited to their composers and performers.

When questioned about the potential inclusion of the DK Rap in the Nintendo Music App, Kirkhope speculated on the possibility, noting that Nintendo owns all the rights and has previously added compositions by David Wise to the app. He hinted at rumors that Nintendo was never particularly fond of Donkey Kong 64, which might influence their decisions regarding the game's music.

Interestingly, while Donkey Kong 64 is absent from the N64 Switch Online lineup, elements like the Rambi theme are expected to feature in Donkey Kong Bananza. Kirkhope's full interview with Eurogamer delves deeper into topics such as the potential for a new Banjo Kazooie game, Donkey Kong Bananza, and the role of nostalgia in game soundtracks.

Looking ahead, fans of Mario's cinematic adventures can anticipate a new Super Mario Bros. movie set to release in April 2026.