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

If you're a fan of classic video game soundtracks, you might recall the iconic DK Rap from Donkey Kong 64, composed by the legendary Grant Kirkhope. In an interview with Eurogamer, Kirkhope shed light on why his contribution to The Super Mario Bros. Movie went uncredited.

According to Kirkhope, Nintendo decided not to credit composers for music owned by the company, a policy that excluded all but Koji Kondo from receiving recognition. Despite the DK Rap being a vocal piece, which initially qualified for credit, the final ruling stated that if Nintendo owned the rights, composers would remain unnamed.

"I appreciated their policies," Kirkhope recounted, "but by the time the credits rolled, the theater was empty, save for my family and me, watching my name fade into obscurity. For the sake of a few words on the screen... well, that was that."

Kirkhope later expressed his disappointment via social media in 2023, lamenting the oversight. Interestingly, other Nintendo-owned tracks like Bowser's Fury shared the same fate, while licensed music received proper credits.

When asked about the inclusion of the DK Rap in the film, Kirkhope described the process as "bizarre," noting that the track was essentially sampled directly from the original N64 version. He played guitar on the track, with Rare's team handling vocals, yet none of them were credited.

Eurogamer inquired about the possibility of the DK Rap appearing on the Nintendo Music App. While some of David Wise's compositions have been featured, Kirkhope admitted it ultimately depends on Nintendo's discretion. He also mentioned a rumor suggesting Nintendo didn't hold the game Donkey Kong 64 in high regard during its development days at Rare.

As for future projects, fans can look forward to a new Super Mario Bros. movie scheduled for release in April 2026. Meanwhile, discussions with Kirkhope revealed insights into potential sequels for Banjo Kazooie and Donkey Kong Bananza.