Where everyone knows your tune.

Rob LongMay 21, 2023

Why TV Theme Songs Matter

Introduction

TV theme songs are more than just catchy tunes that get stuck in our heads. They set the tone for the show and create an emotional and cultural context for what’s about to unfold. In his book, Music for Prime Time: A History of American Television Themes and Scoring, Jon Burlingame explores the ways in which music can tell a story that words cannot.

The Power of TV Theme Songs

TV theme songs have the power to create a lot of free passes for unrealistic, unfriendly, but funny behavior. They give writers the freedom to be more creative and help shows get away with murder. For example, the theme song for Cheers tells us that this is a place where “everybody knows your name,” and that the characters can be as mean and insulting as they like to each other.

The Decline of TV Theme Songs

Unfortunately, it’s becoming increasingly rare for shows to have memorable theme songs. Network and studio executives don’t like them because they’re expensive and give the audience a chance to reconsider watching the show at all. They want one episode to glide seamlessly to the next, with no flipping allowed. But a really good theme song helps the writers be a little more free and creative.

Conclusion

TV theme songs are more than just background music. They’re a crucial part of the show’s identity and can create a lasting impression on the audience. Burlingame’s book is a trip down memory lane, reminding us of the days when identical cousins and three-hour tours seemed very possible. So next time you hear a TV theme song, take a moment to appreciate its power and influence.