Ken's theme originates from Street Fighter II, Capcom's landmark fighting game released in 1991, where it plays as the stage music for Ken Masters. Over time it became one of the most familiar tracks in fighting game history, helped by arcade popularity, console ports, remixes, and later appearances across the Street Fighter series. Creators still use it because the melody instantly signals classic arcade action, competitive play, and retro game culture, even in short meme edits or montage clips.