Top 10 Iconic TV Theme Songs from the 1970s

The 1970s marked a golden era for TV theme songs, spanning across action, crime, comedy, and family sitcoms, showcasing some of the most memorable music ever heard on television. Funk, rock, and pop were the dominant genres, with the decade's top theme tunes becoming deeply ingrained in popular culture to the point that many would recognize them today, even without having watched the original series. In an era predating streaming and on-demand television, a catchy theme song was crucial for staying in viewers' minds between episodes.

The best theme songs of the 1970s ranged from funk instrumentals that established the show's mood to heartfelt ballads with lyrics that succinctly summarized the plot. These tunes were catchy, upbeat, and easily memorable, with contributions from legendary musicians like Quincy Jones and specialized television composers such as Mike Post. A defining characteristic of 1970s theme songs was the wide variety of instruments utilized, reflecting the experimentation happening in mainstream pop music during that time. The decade was truly filled with an abundance of fantastic TV theme songs.

Sanford and Son (1972 – 1977)

“The Streetbeater” by Quincy Jones

Sanford and Son - “The Streetbeater” by Quincy Jones - Sanford and Son (1972 – 1977)

The Sanford and Son theme song, known as "The Streetbeater," is considered iconic for its groovy funk stylings featuring organ, saxophone, and trumpet. Composed by Quincy Jones and released in 1973 on the album You've Got It Bad Girl, the music became instantly recognizable even to those who had not watched the show. Over the years, the theme song has maintained its popularity, being featured in other series like Scrubs and The Simpsons, solidifying its place in popular culture.

Diff'rent Strokes (1978 – 1986)

"It Takes Diff'rent Strokes" performed by Alan Thicke, Linda Harmon, Gloria Loring and Gene Morford

Gary Coleman in Diff'rent Strokes - "It Takes Diff'rent Strokes" performed by Alan Thicke, Linda Harmon, Gloria Loring and Gene Morford - Diff'rent Strokes (1978 – 1986)

The iconic theme song of the NBC sitcom Diff’rent Strokes conveyed a powerful message of acceptance and understanding. Written by Alan Tichke, Linda Harmon, Gloria Loring, and Gene Morford, the song beautifully encapsulated the essence of the show. It told the story of a businessman and his daughter who welcome two boys from Harlem into their home, emphasizing that everyone is different and it takes a variety of perspectives to make the world go round. With its memorable lyrics and progressive message, the theme song of Diff’rent Strokes perfectly set the tone for the show.

The Jeffersons (1975 – 1985)

"Movin' On Up" performed by Ja'net DuBois

The Jeffersons - "Movin' On Up" performed by Ja'net DuBois - The Jeffersons (1975 – 1985)

The Jeffersons, a groundbreaking sitcom, fearlessly addressed contemporary issues and featured a married interracial couple as its central focus. The gospel choir performing "Movin' On Up" in the theme song symbolized the show's themes of social advancement and hinted at its progressive nature compared to other 1970s sitcoms. With a predominantly African American cast, The Jeffersons delved into topics like alcoholism, racism, gun control, and transgender issues at a time when these subjects were not commonly explored on television.

Taxi (1978 – 1983)

"Angela" by Bob James

Andy Kaufman Taxi Latka - "Angela" by Bob James - Taxi (1978 – 1983)

The opening music to the ABC sitcom Taxi, titled "Angela," set a slow, relaxing, and melancholic tone that was a departure from the flashy themes of its time. Featuring a beautiful recorder followed by groovy keys, saxophone, and flute, "Angela" effectively captured the essence of the show as the opening sequence depicted a cab leisurely crossing the Queensboro Bridge. This serene introduction provided a contrast to the chaotic and humorous lives of New York cab drivers portrayed in Taxi.

The Rockford Files (1974 – 1980)

The Rockford Files by Mike Post and Pete Carpenter

James Garner in The Rockford Files - The Rockford Files by Mike Post and Pete Carpenter - The Rockford Files (1974 – 1980)

The iconic theme song of The Rockford Files, composed by Mike Post and Pete Carpenter, stood out as one of the best of the 1970s. Featuring a unique blend of electric guitar, synths, harmonica, and banjo, the song became a chart-topping hit in both the United States and Canada in 1975. This memorable theme perfectly set the tone for the James Garner detective series, showcasing Post's talent for creating unforgettable music. Post went on to craft more iconic theme songs for popular TV shows in the 1980s, including The A-Team, Quantum Leap, Magnum P.I., and Hill Street Blues.

WKRP In Cincinnati (1978 – 1982)

WKRP in Cincinnati Main Theme by Tom Wells and Hugh Wilson

WKRP-In-Cincinnati - WKRP in Cincinnati Main Theme by Tom Wells and Hugh Wilson - WKRP In Cincinnati (1978 – 1982)

The theme song for WKRP in Cincinnati, composed by Tom Wells and Hugh Wilson, perfectly encapsulated the essence of the show. With its groovy soft pop sound and 1970s vibe, the song reflected the smooth radio style of the era, reminiscent of the popular West Coast yacht rock sound. It played a crucial role in setting the tone for the misadventures of the AM radio station staff portrayed in the series.

The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970 – 1977)

"Love Is All Around" by Sonny Curtis

Mary Tyler Moore on the Mary Tyler Moore Show - "Love Is All Around" by Sonny Curtis - The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970 – 1977)

The iconic theme song of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, composed and performed by Sonny Curtis, captures the essence of the main character's journey towards a fresh start following the end of her relationship. With its uplifting message of "you're gonna make it after all," the theme sets a tone of optimism and empowerment for the series. Reflecting the show's feminist undertones, the theme celebrates a woman who is independent, single, and leading a rich, fulfilling life - a portrayal that was groundbreaking for its time in the 1970s.

The Muppet Show (1976 – 1981)

"The Muppet Show Theme" by Jim Henson and Sam Pottle

Kermit the Frog on The Muppet Show. - "The Muppet Show Theme" by Jim Henson and Sam Pottle - The Muppet Show (1976 – 1981)

The theme song for The Muppets Show, co-written by Jim Henson and Sam Pottle, remains one of the most iconic elements of the beloved series. Its catchy and memorable lyrics, such as "sensational, inspirational, celebrational, Muppetational," have resonated with audiences of all ages and have become synonymous with characters like Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. This enduring piece of music has played a significant role in the lasting success of The Muppets Show.

Mission: Impossible (1966 – 1973)

“Theme from Mission: Impossible” by Lalo Schifrin

The cast of the Mission Impossible TV series looking at the camera. - “Theme from Mission: Impossible” by Lalo Schifrin - Mission: Impossible (1966 – 1973)

The iconic theme music from the original Mission: Impossible television series, which aired in the late 1960s and throughout the 1970s, remains one of the most enduring elements of the franchise. Composer Lalo Schifrin is said to have based the memorable theme on the rhythm of the M.I. in Morse code, creating a piece of music that has become synonymous with the series. This theme has been a constant presence in the franchise, being used in the 1988 revival TV show and the popular Tom Cruise-led movie series.

Happy Days (1974 – 1984)

"Happy Days" by The Ron Hicklin Singers

Cast of Happy Days - "Happy Days" by The Ron Hicklin Singers - Happy Days (1974 – 1984)

The theme song of the 1970s TV show Happy Days stands out as a remarkable piece that successfully captured the essence of the 1950s. Written by Norman Gimbel and Charles Fox, the upbeat and iconic song was performed by Jan Haas along with The Ron Hicklin Singers and later by Pratt & McClain. With its infectious blend of 1950s rock 'n' roll, doo-wop harmonies, and catchy pop beats, "Happy Days" remains one of the most beloved theme songs in television history.

Sources: Songfacts, NME

Editor's P/S:

This article is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, highlighting some of the most iconic TV theme songs that graced the screens in the 1970s. The decade was a golden era for music on television, and these theme songs not only set the tone for their respective shows but also became ingrained in popular culture, leaving an enduring legacy.

The article showcases the diversity and creativity of the music that defined the era, ranging from groovy funk to heartfelt ballads. It also celebrates the contributions of legendary musicians like Quincy Jones and Mike Post, who crafted unforgettable themes that perfectly encapsulated the essence of their shows. Each song had its own unique charm, whether it was the upbeat optimism of "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" or the serene melancholy of "Taxi." These theme songs were not just background music; they were integral parts of the television experience, enhancing the viewer's connection to the characters and stories on screen.