By Edward M. Melendez

When you think about your favorite TV shows, what often comes to mind first? Is it the dramatic plot twists, the memorable characters, or perhaps the iconic settings? While these elements undoubtedly play a significant role, there is another crucial component that often gets overlooked: the theme song. A well-crafted TV theme has the power to instantly transport you to the world of the show, evoke a spectrum of emotions, and etch itself into the cultural memory. The art of writing memorable TV themes is a fascinating journey through music, storytelling, and a bit of magic.

The golden age of TV themes arguably began in the 1950s and 60s, a time when television was becoming a central part of family life. Shows like “I Love Lucy” and “The Andy Griffith Show” introduced audiences to the concept of a catchy opening number that set the tone for the episodes to come. The “I Love Lucy” theme, composed by Eliot Daniel, is a perfect example. Its lively, upbeat melody mirrored the energetic and humorous nature of the show, becoming synonymous with Lucille Ball’s zany antics. The tune is so memorable that even decades later, it can evoke images of Lucy’s iconic misadventures.

As we moved into the 1970s and 80s, TV themes started to become even more integral to a show’s identity. Take, for instance, the theme from “MAS*H,” officially titled “Suicide Is Painless.” Composed by Johnny Mandel with lyrics by Michael Altman, this hauntingly beautiful piece captures the poignant blend of comedy and tragedy that defined the series. The song’s melancholic tone and reflective lyrics provided a stark contrast to the often chaotic and comedic scenes that followed, reminding viewers of the show’s deeper themes about the absurdities of war.

Another prime example from this era is the theme for “Cheers,” written by Gary Portnoy and Judy Hart Angelo. The song, “Where Everybody Knows Your Name,” is a heartfelt ode to the comfort and camaraderie found in the show’s titular bar. Its warm, inviting melody and relatable lyrics struck a chord with viewers, making it an instant classic. Interestingly, the decision to use Portnoy’s demo version as the final cut is a testament to the raw, authentic feel that sometimes resonates most with audiences.

The 1990s brought us some of the most recognizable TV themes ever created. Who could forget the infectious clapping in “I’ll Be There for You,” the theme song for “Friends”? Written by Michael Skloff and Allee Willis, and performed by The Rembrandts, this song captured the essence of friendship and young adulthood with its upbeat tempo and reassuring lyrics. The theme’s popularity was so immense that it even became a chart-topping hit, proving that a great TV theme can transcend its original medium to become a pop culture phenomenon.

Similarly, the theme for “The X-Files,” composed by Mark Snow, demonstrated the power of instrumental music in setting a show’s tone. Snow’s eerie, otherworldly composition, featuring a haunting whistling melody, perfectly encapsulated the show’s blend of science fiction, horror, and mystery. It was so effective that just a few notes could evoke the show’s signature sense of intrigue and suspense, a testament to Snow’s skill in creating an auditory atmosphere.

As TV production values increased in the 2000s and 2010s, so did the ambition and complexity of TV themes. Ramin Djawadi’s theme for “Game of Thrones” is a masterclass in orchestration and thematic development. The powerful, sweeping melody, performed by a full orchestra, captures the epic scope and grandeur of the series. Djawadi’s use of leitmotifs—recurring musical themes associated with specific characters or locations—adds depth and cohesion to the show’s vast narrative landscape. The “Game of Thrones” theme became so iconic that it was performed at concerts worldwide, further cementing its place in the annals of TV history.

Not all memorable TV themes are grandiose orchestrations, though. Sometimes, simplicity is key. Consider the theme for “The Office,” composed by Jay Ferguson. The quirky, upbeat piano tune is instantly recognizable and perfectly reflects the show’s blend of humor and heartfelt moments. Its catchy melody is straightforward yet effective, embodying the everyday charm and absurdity of the Scranton branch of Dunder Mifflin.

In more recent years, streaming services have revolutionized the way we consume television, and this has had an interesting impact on TV themes. With the ability to skip intros at the click of a button, theme songs must now capture viewers’ attention more quickly and effectively than ever before. Shows like “Stranger Things” have risen to this challenge with their evocative themes. The “Stranger Things” theme, composed by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein of the band Survive, is a nostalgic nod to 1980s synth music, perfectly setting the stage for the show’s blend of supernatural mystery and retro charm. Its pulsating, electronic melody immediately immerses viewers in the eerie, otherworldly atmosphere of Hawkins, Indiana.

One of the most fascinating aspects of TV theme composition is how it can reflect and even shape the cultural zeitgeist. Take, for example, the theme for “Mad Men,” composed by RJD2. The instrumental piece, titled “A Beautiful Mine,” captures the sleek, sophisticated, and somewhat unsettling world of 1960s advertising. Its modern, electronic sound juxtaposed with the show’s period setting creates a unique auditory experience that highlights the timeless nature of the show’s themes of ambition, identity, and societal change.

The impact of a great TV theme extends beyond the small screen. These songs often become cultural touchstones, evoking a sense of nostalgia and connection among fans. Think about the theme from “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” performed by Will Smith. Its catchy rap verses not only told the story of the show’s premise but also became an anthem for a generation. Even today, it’s common to hear people reciting the lyrics from memory, a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted theme song.

Creating a memorable TV theme is no small feat. It requires a deep understanding of the show’s tone, characters, and overarching themes, as well as the ability to distill these elements into a concise and engaging piece of music. Composers must balance creativity with accessibility, crafting melodies that are both unique and instantly recognizable. This delicate art has produced some of the most iconic pieces of music in modern media.

In conclusion, the art of writing memorable TV themes is a multifaceted and fascinating endeavor. From the early days of catchy, straightforward tunes to the complex and evocative compositions of today, TV themes have evolved alongside the medium itself. They serve as the auditory gateways to our favorite shows, setting the tone and drawing us into the narrative world. Whether through the nostalgic charm of “The Andy Griffith Show,” the haunting beauty of “MAS*H,” the infectious energy of “Friends,” or the epic grandeur of “Game of Thrones,” these themes hold a special place in our hearts and minds. They are the melodies that define our viewing experiences, reminding us of the power of music to enhance storytelling and create lasting memories.