Grant Kirkhope Not Credited for DK Rap in The Super Mario Bros. Movie: Composer’s Absence Raises Questions

Grant Kirkhope, the acclaimed video game composer best known for his memorable work on the Donkey Kong Country and Banjo-Kazooie franchises, recently found himself omitted from the credits of The Super Mario Bros.

Movie—a notable omission given his authorship of the iconic DK Rap, which features in the film.

The animated feature, a collaboration between Nintendo and Illumination and released worldwide on April 5, 2023, has achieved significant commercial success and garnered attention from both gaming and movie audiences.

The DK Rap originally debuted in 1999 with the launch of Donkey Kong 64 for the Nintendo 64 console, and quickly became a cult favorite among fans of the franchise and video game music enthusiasts alike.

Kirkhope’s work, characterized by its playful lyrics and energetic rhythms, contributed to the cultural identity of the Donkey Kong series and maintained its popularity for decades.

The rap's enduring appeal led to its inclusion in The Super Mario Bros.

Movie, further highlighting its influence within Nintendo's multimedia projects. However, when the film’s credits rolled on opening day, Kirkhope noticed his name was missing from the relevant sections.

Publicly addressing the situation via social media, Kirkhope remarked that he had hoped to see recognition for his composition in the newly released movie, only to discover that he was not mentioned.

In a concise statement echoing his disappointment, Kirkhope acknowledged that he had anticipated this outcome but expressed regret at not being credited for the work he crafted more than two decades ago. Despite the widespread appreciation for the DK Rap and its creators within video game culture, neither Nintendo nor Illumination has provided an explanation for the absence of Kirkhope’s name in the film’s credits.

This omission has spurred renewed conversation surrounding proper recognition for composers whose music plays a vital role in creating lasting memories for fans of legendary franchises like Super Mario Bros.

and Donkey Kong. The Super Mario Bros.

Movie has already surpassed significant sales and viewership milestones, marking a successful cross-media moment for Nintendo and Illumination.

As Kirkhope’s situation gains visibility, it underscores broader industry conversations about the importance of crediting creative contributors, especially in high-profile projects drawing from classic gaming history.

Fans and fellow developers now await any updates regarding potential corrections or acknowledgments in future releases or home video editions of the movie. Kirkhope’s experience serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of video game music and the importance of recognizing the talents that bring these beloved worlds to life.

The DK Rap’s legacy remains intact, but the call for due credit continues to echo across the gaming and entertainment communities.

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