’80s TV Shows That You Could Recognize By Their Theme Songs

What sticks in your head longer, the show or the music that kicked it off? The ‘80s had a way of delivering opening tunes that became legends in their own right. Some shows faded into nostalgia, but their themes still make you pause, hum along, or belt out the lyrics. Get ready to revisit TV’s golden age, where a few opening notes were all it took to bring back the magic.

The Greatest American Hero

It is an underdog superhero show with a theme song that soared above its premise. “Believe It or Not” by Joey Scarbury became a surprise pop hit, climbing to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1981. The song’s uplifting lyrics and soft rock melody made it a radio favorite.

The Dukes Of Hazzard

Waylon Jennings’ “Good Ol’ Boys” was a country hit in its own right, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. The song perfectly captured the carefree spirit of the Duke boys, even if the show itself was more about absurd car chases and exaggerated Southern charm.

Magnum, P.I.

Before Tom Selleck’s mustache stole the spotlight, the show’s theme music did. Composed by Mike Post and Pete Carpenter, the theme featured a bold electric guitar riff that felt like the soundtrack to the adventure itself. It was impossible to forget. That theme song had power and still sounds just as bold today.

Miami Vice

Jan Hammer’s “Miami Vice Theme” was a neon-drenched, synth-powered adrenaline rush that landed at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song was as stylish and sleek as the show, setting the perfect mood for a world of fast cars and undercover drama.

The A-Team

“If you have a problem, if no one else can help…” You know the rest. This theme music from the show felt like a military march on steroids, complete with brass and an energy level that could power an entire action sequence. It made you feel like you were part of the mission.

Perfect Strangers

Optimism has rarely sounded as infectious as “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Me Now.” This feel-good anthem captured the dream-chasing spirit of the show’s mismatched cousins, Balki and Larry. The series may have faded from mainstream memory, but that soaring chorus? It still brings a smile to anyone who remembers it.

Growing Pains

“As Long As We Got Each Other” was a warm hug in musical form. Initially sung by B.J. Thomas and later joined by Jennifer Warnes, this sentimental tune encapsulated family life’s joys (and occasional chaos). The show had its moments, but that theme song? That was the real heart of it.

Cheers

Written by Gary Portnoy and Judy Hart Angelo, the heartfelt piano-driven “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” became one of TV’s most beloved anthems. The lyrics made you want to walk into your local bar and be greeted like an old friend. You didn’t have to watch “Cheers” to feel the pull of those opening lines.

The Golden Girls

“Thank You for Being a Friend” wasn’t originally written for the show, but once it was attached, it became inseparable. Originally recorded by Andrew Gold in 1978 and later re-recorded by Cynthia Fee for the series, this upbeat tune perfectly embodied the spirit of four women, proving that friendship only gets better with age.

Night Court

Few shows blend humor and chaos quite like “Night Court,” but its jazzy theme song truly sets the tone. The opening bassline and snappy saxophone create a cool, laid-back groove that instantly transports viewers into the show’s offbeat world. It is an instrumental that feels like it belonged in a smoky late-night lounge.