Does WWE Own Cult of Personality?

One of the most iconic entrance songs in professional wrestling history is “Cult of Personality” by Living Colour. This powerful track has been synonymous with the legendary wrestler CM Punk, who used it as his theme song during his time in the WWE.

However, there has been much debate surrounding the ownership rights of this song and whether WWE truly owns “Cult of Personality. “

The History

“Cult of Personality” was originally released by Living Colour in 1988 as part of their album “Vivid.” The song quickly gained popularity and became a symbol of rebellion and individuality. Its catchy riffs and thought-provoking lyrics resonated with many fans, making it a perfect fit for CM Punk’s character.

CM Punk’s Use

CM Punk made his WWE debut in 2005, but it wasn’t until 2011 that he started using “Cult of Personality” as his entrance theme. The song became inseparable from his persona, adding to his rebel image and fueling his popularity among fans.

The Ownership Controversy

While CM Punk became synonymous with “Cult of Personality,” it is important to note that he did not personally own the rights to the song. The ownership lies with the band Living Colour and their record label, Epic Records. This fact leads to an interesting question: Does WWE own the rights to use “Cult of Personality” for CM Punk’s entrances?

The answer is no. In fact, WWE had to secure separate licensing agreements with both Living Colour and Epic Records in order to use the song for CM Punk’s character. These agreements allowed WWE to feature “Cult of Personality” on their programming while compensating the rightful owners.

Alternatives

After CM Punk’s departure from WWE in 2014, the company could no longer use “Cult of Personality” as his theme song. This led to the creation of a new entrance theme for CM Punk’s successor, Kevin Owens. The new theme, titled “Fight” by CFO$, was specifically composed for Owens and captured his persona.

The Impact

“Cult of Personality” will forever be associated with CM Punk and his time in WWE. The song became an anthem for the rebellious spirit that defined Punk’s character and resonated with fans worldwide. Its powerful message and catchy melody created a lasting impact that still echoes in arenas today.

In Conclusion

While WWE does not own “Cult of Personality,” they were able to secure licensing agreements with Living Colour and Epic Records to use the song for CM Punk’s entrances. The iconic track will forever be intertwined with CM Punk’s legacy, leaving a lasting impact on the world of professional wrestling.