Album Review: WWE Time To Rock & Roll (Trish Stratus Feat Lil Kim) by James A. Johnston
Released in 2011 under WWE, Inc., WWE Time To Rock & Roll is one of those albums that straddles multiple genres with a confidence only wrestling-themed music can pull off. With its eclectic mix of Pop, Funk/Soul, Hip Hop, Blues, Electronic, and even Stage & Screen vibes, this record feels like an auditory rollercoaster ride through the WWE universe. The featured track “WWE: Time To Rock & Roll (Trish Stratus)” alongside Lil Kim stands out as both nostalgic and surprisingly fresh—even years later.
Let’s dive into it. First up, the titular track. If you’re familiar with Trish Stratus’ legacy in WWE, hearing her name attached to this anthem makes perfect sense. It’s punchy, upbeat, and dripping with attitude—a vibe she brought to the ring herself. Lil Kim adds her signature swagger, spitting bars that elevate what could’ve been just another gimmicky sports theme song. The fusion of Rhythm & Blues and Pop Rap here works unexpectedly well; it’s not trying too hard but still delivers enough energy to get fans hyped for Monday Night Raw or SmackDown. You remember this track because it doesn’t just play—it commands attention.
Another standout moment comes from the album's broader stylistic range. While some tracks lean heavily into Soundtrack territory—think dramatic orchestration meeting wrestling drama—there are moments where James A. Johnston experiments with electronic beats and funk undertones. One particular cut blends these elements seamlessly, creating something that wouldn’t feel out of place at a retro arcade or during a climactic entrance on WWE programming. The production quality shines despite the odd genre-hopping, which might confuse purists but keeps things interesting for listeners who enjoy variety.
What makes this album memorable isn’t necessarily its complexity—it’s how it captures the spirit of WWE itself. Sure, there are cheesy bits, over-the-top theatrics, and some questionable lyrical choices (because hey, it’s wrestling), but that’s part of the charm. Tracks like “Time To Rock & Roll” remind us why we fell in love with wrestling themes in the first place: they’re bold, unapologetic, and larger than life.
Reflecting on this project now, it’s kind of wild how much effort went into crafting music specifically tied to wrestling personas. Back then, soundtracks weren’t just background noise—they were extensions of characters’ identities. And while this album may not win any Grammys, it holds a special place in the hearts of fans who lived for those iconic entrances. Honestly? Listening to it today feels like stepping back into a time capsule filled with body slams, mic drops, and pyrotechnics. Who knew nostalgia could hit so hard?
Final thought: If nothing else, give props to whoever decided Lil Kim and Trish Stratus needed their own anthem. That combo alone deserves respect.
