Television has been an integral part of popular culture for decades, and one of the elements that have made it so beloved is the music. From theme songs that get stuck in our heads for days to perfectly placed tracks that enhance a scene’s emotional impact, TV songs have played an important role in shaping our viewing experiences. The most memorable TV songs transport us back to a particular moment in time, evoke feelings of nostalgia, and become an essential part of our personal soundtracks. As such, it’s no surprise that numerous songs have become just as famous as the shows that they were featured in.
In this article, we’ll be counting down the top ten TV songs of all time, taking into account a wide range of factors. We’ll examine the impact these songs have had on popular culture and how they’ve contributed to the success of the shows they were a part of. We’ll also consider the lyrics, melody, and production values that make each song so special. Whether you’re a die-hard TV fan or just someone who enjoys a good tune, our list is sure to have something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to relive some of the best TV moments of all time through the power of music.
1. ‘The Jeffersons’ CBS, 1975-85
“The Jeffersons” theme song, written by Jeff Barry and Ja’net Dubois, is a catchy and upbeat tune that perfectly captures the spirit of the show. The song opens with a groovy bass line and is quickly joined by a brass section and percussion, creating a lively and dynamic sound. The lyrics tell the story of George and Louise Jefferson’s journey from their humble beginnings to their new life in a luxurious apartment on the East Side of Manhattan. The chorus, with its repetition of the phrase “We’re movin’ on up,” is both memorable and infectious, making it impossible not to sing along. The vocals, performed by Ja’net Dubois, are soulful and confident, matching the show’s overall tone of empowerment and success. Overall, the “Jeffersons” theme song is a classic example of how a great TV song can not only set the tone for a show but also become an iconic piece of popular culture in its own right.
2. TIE: ‘The Brady Bunch’ and ‘Gilligan’s Island’ ABC, 1969-74; CBS, 1964-67
Tied for second place on our list of the best TV songs of all time are two classic tunes: “The Brady Bunch” and “Gilligan’s Island.” Both songs are beloved for their catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and ability to transport viewers to a specific time and place. “The Brady Bunch” theme song, written by Frank De Vol and Sherwood Schwartz, tells the story of a blended family with nine children and their adventures in a beautiful California home. The song’s upbeat tempo and harmonious vocals perfectly capture the show’s cheerful and wholesome vibe. Meanwhile, “Gilligan’s Island,” composed by Sherwood Schwartz and George Wyle, tells the story of seven castaways who become stranded on a deserted island. The song’s tropical feel and memorable lyrics, which introduce each character and their personality traits, have made it a beloved classic. Overall, both of these songs are excellent examples of how TV songs can become just as famous as the shows themselves, and continue to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
3. ‘Sanford and Son’ NBC, 1972-77
The theme song for “Sanford and Son,” composed by Quincy Jones, is a high-energy jazz-funk instrumental that perfectly captures the show’s vibrant and humorous tone. The song opens with a memorable trumpet riff that is quickly joined by a groovy bass line and lively percussion. The melody is fast-paced and upbeat, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation. The instrumentation is complex and layered, with multiple instruments coming together to create a rich and dynamic sound. The song’s use of horns, in particular, gives it a distinct sound that sets it apart from other TV theme songs of its era. Overall, the “Sanford and Son” theme song is a masterful example of how music can enhance a show’s tone and atmosphere, and it remains a beloved classic to this day.
4. ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’ CW, 2015-19
The theme song for “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend,” written by Rachel Bloom and Adam Schlesinger, is a hilarious and irreverent take on romantic comedy tropes. The song, which features Bloom singing and dancing through various musical styles and genres, begins with an upbeat and bubbly pop melody before quickly transitioning to a more somber ballad. The lyrics, which poke fun at the show’s own premise and the unrealistic expectations placed on women in romantic comedies, are clever and witty, and Bloom’s vocal performance is both powerful and comedic. The song’s use of various musical styles, from rap to Broadway to country, is a testament to the show’s willingness to experiment and take risks with its storytelling. Overall, the “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” theme song perfectly encapsulates the show’s unique blend of comedy, drama, and musical theater, and it’s a must-listen for fans of the series.
5.‘Mister Rogers‘ Neighborhood’ PBS, 1968-2001
The theme song for “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” written and performed by Fred Rogers himself, is a gentle and comforting tune that has become synonymous with the show. The song’s simple melody and Rogers’ warm, soothing voice make it an instant classic, and its lyrics, which encourage kindness, curiosity, and self-esteem, are just as important today as they were when the show first aired. The song’s use of a piano and a string section gives it a soft and gentle quality, perfect for setting the tone of the show. The song’s iconic opening line, “It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood,” has become a cultural touchstone, and the song itself is a testament to the power of music to connect with and inspire viewers of all ages. Overall, the “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” theme song is a beloved classic that will continue to be cherished for generations to come.
6. ‘The Twilight Zone’ (CBS, 1959-’64)
The theme song for “The Twilight Zone,” composed by Marius Constant, is a haunting and eerie piece of music that perfectly captures the show’s mysterious and otherworldly tone. The song’s opening notes, played on a theremin, immediately set the stage for the show’s exploration of the strange and supernatural. The melody is unsettling and disorienting, with a sense of tension that builds throughout the song. The use of percussion and brass gives the song a sense of urgency and danger, adding to the show’s overall sense of unease. The song’s use of atonal and dissonant notes was groundbreaking for its time, and it remains an iconic piece of television music to this day. Overall, the “Twilight Zone” theme song is a masterful example of how music can set the tone for a show and enhance its overall impact on viewers.
7. ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ NBC, 1990-96
The theme song for “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” written and performed by Will Smith, is a fun and catchy rap that perfectly captures the show’s lighthearted and comedic tone. The song’s opening lines, “Now this is a story all about how / My life got flipped, turned upside down,” have become instantly recognizable, and Smith’s energetic delivery and playful lyrics make it impossible not to sing along. The song’s use of a funky beat and scratch samples give it a distinctly ’90s hip-hop vibe, while the lyrics tell the story of a young man from West Philadelphia who moves in with his wealthy relatives in Bel-Air. Overall, the “Fresh Prince” theme song is a classic example of how a TV song can become just as iconic as the show itself, and it remains a beloved piece of pop culture to this day.
8. ‘Friends’ NBC, 1994-2004
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLisEEwYZvw
The theme song for “Friends,” performed by The Rembrandts, is a bouncy and upbeat pop song that perfectly captures the show’s warm and comedic tone. The song’s catchy melody and sing-along chorus, which repeats the line “I’ll be there for you,” have made it a beloved classic, and its use of acoustic guitars and jangly percussion gives it a laid-back, feel-good vibe. The song’s lyrics, which speak to the importance of friendship and support, have become a cultural touchstone, and its opening guitar riff is instantly recognizable to fans of the show. Overall, the “Friends” theme song is a testament to the power of a great TV song to capture the spirit of a show and become an iconic piece of pop culture in its own right.
9. ‘The O.C.’ Fox, 2003-07
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CN_ekku9jAM
The theme song for “The O.C.,” performed by Phantom Planet, is a catchy and upbeat rock tune that perfectly captures the show’s youthful and rebellious spirit. The song’s opening guitar riff, which repeats throughout the song, is instantly recognizable, and its use of a driving drumbeat and energetic vocals create a sense of urgency and excitement. The song’s lyrics, which speak to the feeling of being young and alive, perfectly encapsulate the show’s themes of coming-of-age and self-discovery. The song’s use of distorted guitar and electronic effects gives it a modern, edgy feel that was perfectly suited to the show’s contemporary setting. Overall, the “O.C.” theme song is a classic example of how a great TV song can not only set the tone for a show but also become an essential part of its identity and a beloved piece of pop culture.
10. ‘Too Many Cooks’ Adult Swim, 2014
The theme song for “Too Many Cooks,” created by Casper Kelly, is a bizarre and hilarious parody of classic TV sitcom opening themes. The song begins with a typical sitcom melody and visuals, but quickly spirals into a surreal and darkly comedic montage featuring a never-ending cast of characters. The song’s use of multiple musical styles, including a rap breakdown and a heavy metal section, adds to the overall absurdity of the piece. The lyrics, which repeat the phrase “Too many cooks,” are both catchy and nonsensical, and perfectly capture the show’s satirical and irreverent tone. Overall, the “Too Many Cooks” theme song is a testament to the power of humor and parody in the world of TV music, and it remains a cult favorite among fans of Adult Swim and offbeat comedy.
Erica Henderson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
