Top 10 Classic TV Shows Theme Songs, A Look Back
While watching back-to-back episodes of Hawaii Five-0, this idea came to mind. That is one kick-ass theme song. But is it the best theme song in history? It ranks high on the list.
There have been many memorable music scores written for television series throughout history which have been etched in pop culture’s collective memory.
This list reflects the classics, like Five-0, which happens to be running a remake on CBS. Which other ones come to mind when you look back?
Happy Days, Shaft, The Mod Squad, The Avengers, these are some of the names that appear in any list, when it comes to theme songs. Are you old enough to remember? Do you hum when you happen to catch a re-run?
If you do, then we want to remind you of some of the very best ones. Most of them are themes for old action shows, most of them cops shows which have been popular throughout television history.
When it comes to classic TV shows theme songs, it’s a matter of taste, if you grew up watching these series, then you know what we are talking about, if not, we can introduce you to what made for great television in the ’70s and ’80s.
Hawaii Five-0 (1968-1980)
Hawaii Five-0 followed an elite branch of the Hawaii State Police answerable only to the governor and headed by Steve McGarrett. Starring Jack Lord and James McArthur.
S.W.A.T (1975-1976)
The missions of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics unit. Starring Steve Forrest, Robert Urich, and Mark Shera.
The Mod Squad (1968-1973)
Three young outsiders fight crime as undercover agents for the police. Starring Michael Cole, Clarence Williams III, and Peggy Lipton.
The Avengers (1961-1969)
A quirky spy show of the adventures of an eccentricly suave British agent and his predominately female partners. Starring Patrick Mcnee and Diana Rigg.
Happy Days (1974-1984)
Here’s a non-cop show that had a memorable theme song. The Cunningham family live through the 1950s with help and guidance from the lovable and almost superhuman greaser, Fonzie. Starring Ron Howard (the director), Henry Winkler, Marion Ross, and Tom Bosley.
Bonanza (1959-1973)
The story of the Carthwrights and the adventures that take place at their ranch, called Bonanza. Starring Lorne Green, Michael Landon, Dan Blocker, and Pernell Roberts.
The Brady Bunch (1969-1974)
The misadventures of a large family which comes together when two widowers re-marry. Starring Robert Reed, Florence Henderson, and Ann B. Davis.
Dallas (1978-1991)
The soapy, backstabbing machinations of Dallas oil magnate J.R. Ewing and his family. Starring Larry Hagman, Linda Gray, Patrick Duffy, and Victoria Principal.
The Six Million Dollar Man (1974-1978)
After a crippled test pilot is rebuilt with nuclear powered limbs and implants, he serves as a unique intelligence agent. Starring Lee Majors and Richard Anderson.
Charlie’s Angels (1976-1981)
The adventures of three sexy lady investigators. Starring Farrah Fawcett, Jaclyn Smith, and Kate Jackson.
This completes this list, which could keep going as there are so many classic TV shows that have given viewers memorable theme songs. Do you agree? Do you have an old favorite?
