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Japan Anime News Edit by Taimu Tsuji

Official Sampling of Akira Ifukube's "Godzilla Theme" in "Godzilla vs. Kong: A New Empire" Theme Song, with Comments

"Godzilla vs. Kong: A New Empire" (Opening April 26) ©2024 Legendary and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

"Godzilla vs. Kong: A New Empire" (Opening April 26) ©2024 Legendary and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.


As the release date for "Godzilla vs. Kong: A New Empire" approaches in Japan on April 26, having already premiered internationally, the Japanese theme song has been revealed as "RISE TOGETHER feat. OZworld" by Yaffle x AI. A Japanese dub trailer featuring this song has also been released.


Japanese theme song for "Godzilla vs. Kong: A New Empire" (Opening April 26), "RISE TOGETHER feat. OZworld," featuring artist AI, Yaffle.

Japanese theme song for "Godzilla vs. Kong: A New Empire" (Opening April 26), "RISE TOGETHER feat. OZworld," featuring artist AI, Yaffle.


Yaffle, a highly acclaimed music producer who has recently gained attention for his work on various artists' tracks and prominent movie scores, chose AI as his "combat partner" for her powerful voice, fitting to triumph over Godzilla. AI, one of Japan's leading artists, continues to captivate many with her charm and beloved personality, in addition to her singing prowess.

Both share a profound love for Godzilla. They sampled the original score of "Godzilla's Theme" by Akira Ifukube, a hallmark of the Godzilla series, elevating the film's tagline "Rise Together or Fall Alone" into a new anthem for the Godzilla movie franchise. This marks the first official sampling of the original Godzilla music in history.

Joining them in this collaboration is HIP HOP artist OZworld (Oswald), known for his unique flow and skillful rapping. His involvement ensures a powerful collaboration fitting for the film, which portrays the ultimate alliance between Godzilla and Kong.

The Japanese dubbed trailer features the iconic phrase from "Godzilla's Theme" followed by AI's gospel-like roar at the end, offering a preview of the dub before the movie's release.


Japanese theme song for "Godzilla vs. Kong: A New Empire" (Opening April 26), "RISE TOGETHER feat. OZworld," featuring artist OZworld.

Japanese theme song for "Godzilla vs. Kong: A New Empire" (Opening April 26), "RISE TOGETHER feat. OZworld," featuring artist OZworld.


Comments from Yaffle

"I never imagined I'd be standing in a diorama space for the music video shoot, so I'm quite moved. And to be involved with Mr. Ifukube's magnificent composition is truly overwhelming.

The movie itself was immensely powerful and expansive, which inspired me to infuse the song with equal force. After laying down the initial beat, I reached out to AI, known for her compelling presence, and OZworld, admired for his cool rap and vocal artistry. They perfectly executed their parts, creating a powerful track. I love it as a listener myself.

Growing up watching Godzilla, I've always hoped to contribute to its film music. I'm honored to be part of the ongoing global Godzilla wave. The character has persisted for 70 years, a truly incredible feat. I hope it continues for another 100, 200 years."


Comments from AI

"When I received the offer for this major movie featuring Godzilla and Kong, I was thrilled. There was no reason to refuse. I had previously worked with Yaffle on my latest album and felt a strong musical connection, making me very happy to collaborate again.

My children love Godzilla, and our house has been full of Godzilla items even before this project (laughs). Having grown up with Godzilla myself, I was deeply familiar with 'Godzilla's Theme.' The moment Yaffle played the sampling for me, I got goosebumps. We worked closely to ensure our melody stood up to the powerful music.

Now that the song is complete, I'm truly happy and eager for everyone to hear it!

Godzilla has been beloved worldwide for 70 years. My father knows it, and even my mother, who is foreign, is aware of it... It's rare for a character to be loved for so long.

It's still so cool and captivating. Happy Anniversary."


Comments from OZworld

"When the request for this song came, I literally got goosebumps. The day has come to work with the embodiment of love, AI, and I was overflowing with happiness.

As a child, I played with Godzilla and enemy monster toys, and Godzilla was always a part of my monster play, like a big cousin character.

Most importantly, the theme of 'cooperation' between GODZILLA and KONG in this project resonates as a message necessary for our times. It aligns closely with the core theme I wanted to convey in my third album released last September.

So, the lyrics for this song came naturally from within me. I'm truly happy to be involved in this significant anniversary project. Da-ra-ra, Da-ra-ra!"


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