If you’re a fan of high-energy rock music, you’ve likely heard of Downstait. Known for their powerful vocals and electrifying guitar riffs, this American band from Fort Wayne, Indiana, has made a name for itself both in the rock world and in professional wrestling.

Their track Kingdom has become the iconic entrance theme for WWE superstar Cody Rhodes, with Cody Rhodes Kingdom lyrics symbolizing his journey.

Downstait blends post-grunge, alternative metal, and nu-metal influences, drawing comparisons to bands like Drowning Pool and Papa Roach.

In this blog, I’ll share Downstait’s rise, their impact on wrestling culture, and how their music continues to shape the hard rock scene.

About the Song

Kingdom by Downstait is more than just a song; it’s a declaration of identity, purpose, and grit.

Originally released as Cody Rhodes’s entrance theme, this track has grown into an iconic anthem in professional wrestling, echoing through arenas and hearts alike.

Released as a single in 2016; later featured on various WWE theme compilations, including the 2024 RAW Superstar Themes playlist.

Kingdom Lyrics by Downstait

[Verse 1]

Adrenaline in my soul
Every fight out of control
Do it all to get them off their feet
Crowd is here, about to blow
Waitin’ for me to start the show
Out the curtain, lights go up, I’m home
(Whoa!)

[Pre-Chorus]

And my father said, when I was younger
Hard times breed better men (better men!)

[Chorus]

You took it all away, I give it all away
Can’t take my freedom
Here to change the game, a banner made of pain
I built my kingdom
Now you bow to me
You took my dreams but not my name
You’ll follow me into the end
I am my kingdom

[Verse 2]

Lights go down, I’m ready now
Tear this roof off for the town
Gonna give ’em what they came to see
Hear the crowd on their toes
Ready for me to start the show
Out the curtain, lights go up, I’m home
(Whoa!)

[Pre-Chorus]

And my father said, when I was younger
Hard times breed better men (better men!)

[Chorus]

You took it all away, I give it all away
Can’t take my freedom
Here to change the game, a banner made of pain
I built my kingdom
Now you bow to me
You took my dreams but not my name
You’ll follow me into the end
I am my kingdom

[Bridge]

You tried to tell me what to do
(I saw the door and kicked it down)
I stepped right over and right through
(And you can never stop me now)
Bow! Now!
(I am the king and you’re the clown)
Now watch me as I take my throne
And rule my kingdom

[Chorus]

You took it all away, I give it all away
Can’t take my freedom
Here to change the game, a banner made of pain
I built my kingdom
Now you bow to me
You took my dreams but not my name
You’ll follow me into the end
I am my kingdom
You took it all away, I give it all away (Give it all away)
Can’t take my freedom
Here to change the game, a banner made of pain (I’m here to change the game)
I built my kingdom
Now you bow to me
You took my dreams but not my name
You’ll follow me into the end
I am my kingdom

[Outro]

Now you bow to me

Similar Songs LikeKingdom by Downstait

Here are some similar songs that capture the same high-energy, anthemic rock vibe as Kingdom:

• Adelitas Way – Invincible: An empowering anthem about overcoming obstacles, Invincible is packed with raw energy and a driving rhythm, making it the perfect soundtrack for a victorious moment.
• Skillet – Monster: With its hard-hitting guitar riffs and intense lyrics, Monster is all about embracing inner strength and taking control, delivering the same adrenaline-pumping vibe as Kingdom.
• Shinedown – Sound of Madness: This song brings intense emotions and a rebellious spirit. Sound of Madness has the same bold, in-your-face attitude, making it a perfect match for fans of Kingdom.
• Pop Evil – Trenches: Trenches combines heavy guitar work with motivating lyrics about fighting through adversity, making it an anthem for those who love a hard rock track with a purpose.
• Red Sun Rising – The Otherside: With a gritty, post-grunge sound and lyrics about resilience, The Otherside captures the same intense, defiant energy that makes Kingdom so powerful.

Similar Artists Like Downstait

Here’s a lineup that blends hard rock, post-grunge, and alternative metal, just like Downstait:

1. Adelitas Way

A hard rock band with raw energy and anthemic choruses, Adelitas Way brings a mix of modern rock and post-grunge vibes.

• Genre: Hard Rock, Post-Grunge
• Notable Tracks: Invincible, Sick, Notorious

2. Skillet

Skillet is a Christian rock band known for its symphonic elements and heavy alternative metal sound, perfect for fans of bold, powerful music.

• Genre: Christian Rock, Alternative Metal
• Notable Tracks: Monster, Hero, Feel Invincible

3. Shinedown

With a blend of hard rock and post-grunge, Shinedown’s music is emotional and powerful, delivering impactful lyrics alongside intense instrumentals.

• Genre: Hard Rock, Post-Grunge
• Notable Tracks: Sound of Madness, Devil, Second Chance

4. Pop Evil

A staple in the hard rock scene, Pop Evil mixes heavy guitar riffs and catchy hooks, creating a dynamic sound that appeals to alternative metal fans.

• Genre: Hard Rock, Alternative Metal
• Notable Tracks: Trenches, Footsteps, Waking Lions

5. Red Sun Rising

Red Sun Rising brings a hard-hitting mix of alternative rock and post-grunge, known for its powerful vocals and introspective lyrics.

• Genre: Alternative Rock, Post-Grunge
• Notable Tracks: The Otherside, Emotionless

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Kingdom Stand Out Among Other Wrestling Entrance Songs?

Kingdom is unique for its emotional depth and powerful lyrics, reflecting Cody Rhodes’s personal journey, making it resonate deeply with fans and adding to its iconic status.

What is the Significance of the Kingdom Lyrics for Cody Rhodes?

The lyrics of Kingdom represent Cody Rhodes’s fight for legacy, independence, and self-determination, mirroring his journey in wrestling and the struggles he overcame to succeed.