10 Hidden Music Easter Eggs in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure You Might Have Overlooked

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure has carved out a significant niche in popular culture, particularly noted for its extensive array of references across diverse domains. The series, crafted by Hirohiko Araki, draws heavily from a broad spectrum of influences including music, fashion, film, television, art, literature, and historical events. Through these cultural nods, Araki reimagines iconic figures in a way that resonates deeply within the fan base.

Among these references, the series showcases an impressive range of musical inspirations, with numerous characters, Stands, and attacks named after renowned artists and songs. This clever integration not only adds depth to the characters but also enriches the viewer’s experience of the narrative. Here are ten of the most striking musical references found within the series.

10. Ungalo’s Stand

His Stand Is Named After Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”

Introduced in the Stone Ocean arc, Ungalo is one of Dio’s sons and engages in a fierce battle with Jolyne, aiming to assist Enrico Pucci. His Stand, aptly named Bohemian Rhapsody, possesses the extraordinary capability to manifest fictional characters into reality. This captivating aspect of his power further blurs the lines between fiction and reality, as he can invoke beloved figures such as Mickey Mouse and Spider-Man, vividly illustrating how deeply embedded musical references enhance the series. This Stand epitomizes Araki’s admiration for Queen, making it one of many instances where the band’s influence is prevalent in the story.

9. Ermes Costello’s Name and Stand

Named After Elvis Costello, with Her Stand Inspired by KISS

Ermes Costello, introduced to fans during Jolyne’s journey in Green Dolphin Street Prison, brings a wealth of musical references in her very existence. Her name is a nod to Elvis Costello, a prominent English singer-songwriter, and her Stand, Kiss, is a clever fusion as it derives its name from both the iconic rock band KISS and Prince’s hit “Kiss.”The intricate layers of her character extend even further, as Ermes’ first name is also influenced by the luxury brand Hermès, showcasing Araki’s multifaceted inspiration.

8. Names of Horses and Riders in the Steel Ball Run Race

Notable Names Include Axl RO, Billy White, Zenyatta Mondatta, and Dixie Chicken

The Steel Ball Run arc, yet to be adapted into an anime, is lauded for its clever weaving of musical references, particularly through the names of both horses and their respective riders. Each name often hearkens back to either musicians or their songs, enriching the narrative’s tapestry. Standouts include Zenyatta Mondatta, referencing The Police’s album, and Billy White, drawing from Billy Idol’s “White Wedding.”These intricacies serve as an homage to varied musical influences, though recognition may vary among fans.

7. Devil/Doppio’s Stand and Attack

Inspired by King Crimson, His Stand and Attack Name Reflect the Band’s Impact

The influence of the English progressive rock band King Crimson reverberates through the Stand wielded by the villainous Diavolo and his alter ego, Vinegar Doppio. The name King Crimson aptly reflects Diavolo’s self-perception as a ruler, while the Stand’s attack, Epitaph, alludes to a title on the band’s seminal album. This dual reference serves to deepen the character’s complexity and reinforces the thematic resonance Araki creates through his thoughtful character naming conventions.

6. Bruno Bucciarati’s Stand

Sticky Fingers Reflects the Rolling Stones’ Legacy

Bruno Bucciarati’s Stand is named Sticky Fingers, a direct homage to the Rolling Stones’ 1971 album of the same name. This Stand gives Bucciarati the extraordinary ability to create zippers across any surface, a unique fighting style that exemplifies his character’s resourcefulness. To avoid copyright complications, some translations have altered its name to Zipper Man, but the original homage remains a testament to Araki’s pattern of invoking musical icons within his storytelling.

5. Rohan Kishibe’s Stand

Heaven’s Door Draws Influence from Bob Dylan

Rohan Kishibe, introduced in Diamond Is Unbreakable, showcases his passion for storytelling as a mangaka. His stand, Heaven’s Door, allows him to inscribe information about an individual into a book, granting him control over their actions—an embodiment of artistic metaphor. The Stand takes its name from Bob Dylan’s iconic song “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door,”which further symbolizes the character’s intricate connection to creativity and narrative.

4. Josuke’s Stand and Design

Crazy Diamond Celebrates Pink Floyd and Prince

Josuke Higashikata, the protagonist of Diamond Is Unbreakable, embodies musical inspiration in both his character design and Stand. His Stand Crazy Diamond is named after Pink Floyd’s “Shine On You Crazy Diamond,”reflecting his emotional depth. Furthermore, Araki infused Josuke with elements of Prince’s iconic style, showcasing a glorious blend of rock culture that resonates through the protagonist’s appearance and abilities.

3. Robert E.O. Speedwagon’s Name

A Nod to R.E.O. Speedwagon

Robert E.O. Speedwagon, a cornerstone character from Phantom Blood, offers crucial support to Jonathan Joestar throughout the series. His name is a direct reference to the American rock band R.E.O. Speedwagon, renowned for classics like “Can’t Fight This Feeling.”This reference exemplifies Araki’s commitment to merging character development with rich musical lore.

2. Trisha Una’s Stand and Stand Cry

Her Stand Draws Inspiration from the Spice Girls

Trisha Una’s Stand and its unique cry, WANNABEEE~, pay homage to the iconic girl group the Spice Girls, with her abilities allowing her to soften objects at will. The Stand operates as an independent entity, providing Trisha a dynamic edge in battles. This clever invocation of pop culture gives fans another layer of enjoyment when engaging with Trisha’s character.

1. Yoshikage Kira’s Stand and Attacks

Killer Queen Shines with Multiple Queen References

Yoshikage Kira stands as one of the most nefarious villains in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, with his Stand Killer Queen drawing inspiration from the legendary rock band Queen. The Stand’s name pays homage to their invigorating song, while its abilities include two attacks aptly named Bite the Dust and Sheer Heart Attack, further connecting Kira to the band’s musical legacy. This duality of reference showcases Araki’s penchant for blending character narratives with his musical tributes.

For further insights on the cultural references within the series, please visit the JoJo Fandom Wiki.

Source: Screen Rant