Best 80s TV Theme Songs and Playlist
The 1980s were a great time for television, with many shows becoming household names. Part of what made these shows so memorable were their theme songs. These catchy tunes not only set the tone for the episodes but also became an inseparable part of the shows themselves.

Why did these theme songs become so iconic and how did they manage to capture the essence of their respective shows? This article will explore some of the best TV theme songs from the 1980s, highlighting why they stood out and how they contributed to the success of their series.
1. Knight Rider
The theme song for Knight Rider is one of the most iconic TV themes of the 1980s. The show aired from 1982 to 1986 and featured David Hasselhoff as Michael Knight, who fought crime with his advanced, indestructible car named KITT.
Song Details:
- Song Name: Knight Rider Theme
- Album: Knight Rider Original Television Soundtrack
- Release Date: 1982
Why we included this song on the list:
The Knight Rider theme is memorable for its distinctive synth sound, which captures the show’s futuristic and action-packed essence. It perfectly sets the tone for the fast-paced adventures of Michael and KITT.
Interesting or fun facts about the song:
The theme song was composed by Stu Phillips and Glen A. Larson. It has been remixed and sampled in various media, illustrating its lasting impact.
2. The A-Team
The theme song for “The A-Team” is one of the most recognizable tunes from the 1980s. Composed by Mike Post and Pete Carpenter, this song set the tone for the action-packed series about a group of ex-military vigilantes.
- Song Name: The A-Team Theme
- Name of the Album: The A-Team Original TV Soundtrack
- Release Date: 1983
Why we included this song on the list
The theme song captures the essence of the show. Its upbeat and militaristic sound perfectly fits the exciting and adventurous spirit of the series. It’s a song that immediately brings to mind the exploits of Hannibal, Face, B.A., and Murdock.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
The A-Team theme was so popular that it was released as a single and became a hit. The show’s opening narration, combined with the powerful music, sets the stage for the viewer, reminding them of the A-Team’s backstory. The song is a classic example of how music can define a television show’s identity and enhance its action-packed scenes.
For more about this iconic piece, you can check out details on The A-Team theme.
3. Miami Vice
“Miami Vice” featured a mix of catchy tunes and high-energy instrumentals. The theme song, simply called “Miami Vice Theme,” became a massive hit in the 1980s. This track by Jan Hammer brought a unique sound that perfectly matched the show’s vibe.
- Song Name: Miami Vice Theme
- Album: Miami Vice Soundtrack
- Release Date: October 1985
Why we included this song on the list
The “Miami Vice Theme” stands out as one of the most iconic TV theme songs of the 1980s. Its blend of synthesizers and rock elements set the tone for the entire series. The song’s energy and style helped make “Miami Vice” a show that many still remember fondly.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
The “Miami Vice Theme” made history by hitting the top of the Billboard Hot 100 on November 9, 1985. This marked the first time a TV show generated a number one hit on both the singles and album charts in the U.S. The show aired on NBC and quickly became famous for its stylish portrayal of law enforcement in Miami.
Check out the Miami Vice Theme for a trip down memory lane and see why it remains a favorite among fans of 80s TV shows. Listen to some of the best songs from Miami Vice and enjoy the iconic soundtrack that brought viewers back each week.
4. Cheers
The theme song for the TV show “Cheers” is titled “Where Everybody Knows Your Name.” This song became one of the most beloved TV theme songs of the 1980s and has left a lasting impression on viewers.
- Song Name: Where Everybody Knows Your Name
- Album: Cheers: Music from the TV Series
- Release Date: 1982
Why we included this song on the list
“Where Everybody Knows Your Name” is synonymous with the TV show “Cheers.” The song perfectly captures the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the bar where everyone feels at home. Its melody and lyrics are instantly recognizable, which helped to cement its status as one of the greatest TV theme songs of all time.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
The song received an Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Achievement in Music and Lyrics in 1983. It was voted the best television theme song of all time in a 2011 Readers Poll by Rolling Stone magazine. In 2013, editors of TV Guide named it the greatest TV theme of all time.
“Where Everybody Knows Your Name” showcases a timeless charm, connecting viewers emotionally to the show and its characters.
5. Magnum, P.I.
The 1980s brought us many unforgettable TV theme songs, and the theme from Magnum, P.I. is certainly one of them. This action-packed show stars Tom Selleck as Thomas Magnum, a private investigator in Hawaii.
- Song Name: Theme from Magnum, P.I.
- Album Name: Not from a specific album
- Release Date: 1980
Why we included this song on the list
The theme from Magnum, P.I. stands out due to its catchy and energetic melody. It perfectly captures the adventurous spirit of the show. Composed by Mike Post, this theme song has a timeless quality that makes it memorable even today. Its dynamic sound became synonymous with Magnum’s thrilling escapades.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
- Mike Post, the composer, is also known for creating other famous TV themes such as Hill Street Blues.
- The theme helped drive the show’s popularity and remains instantly recognizable.
- The original theme used in the first few episodes was a mid-tempo jazz piece by Ian Freebairn-Smith but was replaced by Mike Post’s version.
For more insights on this iconic theme, check out the article on Screen Rant. To listen to the theme, visit TVLine.
6. The Greatest American Hero
“The Greatest American Hero” theme song, known as “Believe It or Not,” is iconic. The show aired from 1981 to 1983 and was about a teacher who gets superpowers. This catchy tune was performed by Joey Scarbury and written by Mike Post and Stephen Geyer.
- Song name: Believe It or Not
- Name of the album: The Greatest American Hero Theme
- Release date: 1981
Why we included this song on the list
The song’s uplifting and catchy melody made it memorable. Its popularity soared, and it reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1981. The tune captured the spirit of the series, making it a favorite among fans.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
Mike Post, who co-wrote the song, is known for creating other famous TV themes like Magnum, P.I.. The tune has been featured in various commercials and TV shows, cementing its place in TV theme song history. It’s also been parodied and referenced many times, showcasing its lasting impact.
7. The Wonder Years
“The Wonder Years” is a beloved 1988 dramedy that captured the hearts of many. The show is noted for its nostalgic look at American family life during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Its theme song, “With a Little Help from My Friends” by Joe Cocker, is iconic and memorable.
- Song Name: “With a Little Help from My Friends”
- Album: The Wonder Years: Music From the Emmy Award-Winning Show & Its Era
- Release Date: 1989
Why we included this song on the list
This song perfectly captures the essence of the show. The soulful rendition by Joe Cocker adds a timeless quality to the beloved series. It also set the tone for each episode, making it a quintessential part of the viewing experience.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
Joe Cocker’s version of “With a Little Help from My Friends” was so popular that it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2001. The soundtrack from the show, featuring this song and other tracks, was officially released in 1989. The show and its music continue to garner recognition for their emotive strength and cultural impact.
8. Growing Pains
The theme song for the sitcom Growing Pains, “As Long As We Got Each Other,” quickly became a standout piece in the 1980s. The show aired from 1985 to 1992 and followed the comedic and heartfelt moments of the Seaver family.
- Song name: “As Long As We Got Each Other”
- Name of the album: Growing Pains (TV show)
- Release date: 1985
Why we included this song on the list
“As Long As We Got Each Other” captures the essence and warmth of family life, which resonated with many viewers during the 1980s. Its catchy tune and sentimental lyrics helped it gain a place in the hearts of fans, making it an unforgettable part of the show.
Interesting or fun facts about the song
The song was co-written by Steve Dorff and John Bettis. John Bettis is also known for writing the lyrics to famous hits like Michael Jackson’s “Human Nature” and Madonna’s “Crazy for You.” The theme saw different versions throughout the series, including duets and solos, adding to its charm and longevity.
9. Family Ties
The theme song for “Family Ties” is called “Without Us.”
- Song Name: “Without Us”
- Album: N/A
- Release Date: 1982
Why we included this song on the list:
“Without Us” is unforgettable for fans of the 80s sitcom era. The song’s lyrics captured the essence of the show, highlighting the bond of the Keaton family. It was performed by Johnny Mathis and Deniece Williams, adding a touch of warmth and nostalgia to the series.
Interesting or fun facts about the song:
“Family Ties” aired from 1982 to 1989, running for seven seasons and 180 episodes. The show starred Michael J. Fox, Meredith Baxter, and Michael Gross. The theme song stood out for its heartfelt lyrics and became an integral part of the viewing experience. The show often addressed various social issues of the time, making it a beloved classic.
For more details on Family Ties and its iconic theme song, visit 80sXChange.
10. Perfect Strangers
“Perfect Strangers” was an iconic TV show from the 1980s. The theme song for this show is “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Me Now.” This song perfectly captures the spirit of the show and the era.
- Song name: Nothing’s Gonna Stop Me Now
- Album: Perfect Strangers Soundtrack
- Release Date: 1986
Why we included this song on the list:
The theme song to “Perfect Strangers” is memorable and catchy. The lyrics are inspiring and emphasize determination and optimism. This fits well with the show’s plot, which follows the adventures of two mismatched cousins navigating life in Chicago.
Interesting or fun facts about the song:
Composed by Jesse Frederick and Bennett Salvay, the song became well-known for its uplifting tone. The opening credits of the show, featuring the song, depict scenic views of Chicago and highlight the main characters. The catchy tune and upbeat lyrics have made it a favorite among fans of 80s TV shows.
To listen to the theme song and see the opening credits, you can visit the YouTube link. For more information on the best TV theme songs of the 1980s, you can check out the TVLine article.
Cultural Impact of 80s TV Theme Songs
The 80s TV theme songs didn’t just introduce shows; they often became anthems that helped define the era. Their catchy tunes influenced modern TV, and their memorable melodies played a crucial role in boosting the popularity of the shows they represented.
Influence on Modern TV Themes
The catchy and memorable nature of 80s TV theme songs set a standard that many modern TV shows try to emulate. Composers today often aim to create opening sequences that are as iconic as those from the 80s, such as the themes from Magnum P.I. and The A-Team. These songs showed that a great theme could capture attention even before the storyline began.
Modern shows like Stranger Things use nostalgic-sounding music to create a connection with the audience, similar to what 80s themes achieved. The influence is also evident in how current shows focus on themes that are more than just background music but are integral to setting the show’s tone and mood.
Role in Popularizing TV Shows
80s TV theme songs did more than provide a catchy intro; they became a major tool in promoting and popularizing the shows themselves. For instance, the opening theme of Fame not only captured the spirit of the series but also became a hit song in its own right, winning an Academy Award and further spotlighting the show.
Songs like Believe It Or Not from The Greatest American Hero outlived the shows they were attached to, becoming hits on the radio and part of popular culture. This cross-platform popularity helped keep these shows in public memory, ensuring they maintained a lasting fan base. The infectious nature of these themes made it hard for viewers to forget the shows, turning them into cultural touchstones of the decade.
Characteristics of Iconic 80s TV Theme Songs
Iconic 80s TV theme songs were marked by catchy tunes and meaningful lyrics. These elements ensured the themes became memorable and essential to the shows’ identities.
Memorable Melodies
Many 80s TV theme songs had unforgettable melodies. These were often simple yet effective, making them easy for viewers to remember and hum along to. The use of synthesizers was prominent, giving the tunes a distinct sound that was emblematic of the decade.
Shows like “Full House” and “Miami Vice” featured themes with such memorable tunes. These melodies played a crucial role in setting the mood before each episode began.
Lyrics and Storytelling
Lyrics in 80s TV theme songs often told a story or highlighted the central theme of the show. This made the songs not only catchy but also relevant to the plot, helping to draw viewers into the world of the show.
For example, the theme of “Fame” encapsulated the aspirations of the characters. Similarly, the “Family Matters” theme summarized the essence of family and togetherness.
Effective lyrics combined with strong melodies ensured these theme songs left a lasting impression on viewers.
Legacy of 80s TV Theme Songs
The 1980s produced some of the most enduring TV theme songs. These melodies have become cultural touchstones, continuing to enchant audiences and influencing modern music.
Continued Popularity
TV theme songs from the 1980s still enjoy widespread popularity. Themes like “Everywhere You Look” from Full House and the Miami Vice theme are instantly recognizable. They evoke strong feelings of nostalgia for those who grew up during that era.
Events often play these songs, and they are featured on streaming platforms, playlists, and TV show reboots, keeping them in public awareness. Their catchy tunes and memorable lyrics have cemented their place in pop culture. Additionally, these songs are frequently used in commercials, social media, and even new TV shows that want to create a retro feel.
Cover Versions and Homages
Many modern artists pay tribute to 80s TV theme songs by creating cover versions or homages. For example, the Stranger Things theme, though original, evokes the same synth-heavy style. The 80s influence is clear in the soundtracks of many contemporary shows and movies.
Bands and musicians often perform these covers at live concerts or feature them in albums dedicated to the 80s. Such covers help introduce these classic tunes to younger audiences who may not have seen the original shows. In addition, TV and film creators sometimes use these songs in ways that highlight their timeless appeal, ensuring that the legacy of 80s TV theme songs continues to thrive.