16 TV Theme Songs That Still Live Rent-Free in Your Head
These TV theme songs are forever stuck in your brain, even if you have not heard them in years.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
Some theme songs were more than just intros. They were short, catchy, and had just the right amount of heart to keep you humming them decades later. These 16 TV theme songs earned permanent spots in your mental playlist.
1. “Friends” – I’ll Be There for You
Bright/Kauffman/Crane Productions on Wikimedia Commons
You did not even need to be a superfan to know all the claps. This theme made everyone feel like they had a built-in support system. It was upbeat, catchy, and impossible to skip.
2. “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” – Theme by Will Smith
NBC on Wikimedia Commons
Every millennial knows how this one starts. The lyrics told a full story, and kids on school buses everywhere rapped along word for word. It still sparks an instant sing-along today.
3. “Full House” – Everywhere You Look
Miller-Boyett production on Wikimedia Commons
Soft piano, cheerful vocals, and a warm vibe made this theme feel like a hug. It perfectly matched the wholesome chaos of the Tanner household. Even the first few notes can bring on major feelings.
4. “The X-Files” – Theme by Mark Snow
Fox Broadcasting Company on Wikimedia Commons
This one did not need words. Just a few eerie notes and you were instantly unsettled. It gave you chills every time and still lingers in the back of your mind.
5. “Cheers” – Where Everybody Knows Your Name
NCTH on Wikimedia Commons
This song made you feel like you belonged somewhere. It was slow, sincere, and unforgettable. Perfect for a show built around community and comfort.
6. “DuckTales” – Life Is Like a Hurricane
File:Ducktales 80s logo.png: The Walt Disney Company derivative work TilmannR on Wikimedia Commons
It was made for kids, but the adults ended up humming it too. The tempo was fast, the chorus was addictive, and the “woo-oo!” never got old. Duckburg had its anthem.
7. “The Golden Girls” – Thank You for Being a Friend
Witt/Thomas/Harris Productions(?) SVG conversion by JBarta on Wikimedia Commons
This song was pure appreciation wrapped in a melody. It felt warm, genuine, and perfectly matched the show’s vibe. It still makes people tear up, decades later.
8. “Pokemon” – Gotta Catch ’Em All
Nintendo on Wikimedia Commons
No kid who watched this in the 90s forgot it. It turned a cartoon into a full-on mission. Even grown-ups now get hyped when they hear the first “I wanna be the very best.”
9. “The Simpsons” – Instrumental by Danny Elfman
20th Century Studios on Wikimedia Commons
Even without lyrics, you knew exactly what was coming. The opening sequence and music together became iconic. It hit the perfect balance of quirky and chaotic.
10. “Charmed” – How Soon Is Now?
CBS Studios on Wikimedia Commons
It was moody, magical, and totally fit the vibe. This one pulled you into the world of the Halliwell sisters before the episode even started. The guitar riff is burned into fans’ memories.
11. “That ’70s Show” – In the Street (Cover by Cheap Trick)
Carsey-Werner Television on Wikimedia Commons
Just a group of teens singing in a car, and somehow, it worked. This theme felt fun, carefree, and captured the whole vibe of the show. You could not hear “Hello Wisconsin!” without grinning.
12. “The Brady Bunch” – Here’s the Story…
ABC Television on Wikimedia Commons
Everyone knew who the lady and the man were. This theme laid out the entire premise in one minute. It was goofy, catchy, and easy to sing along to.
13. “Power Rangers” – Go Go Power Rangers
Power Rangers on Wikimedia Commons
Guitar riffs, dramatic energy, and those iconic words made this song unforgettable. You felt like jumping into battle every time it played. It gave after-school TV its own rock anthem.
14. “Arthur” – Believe in Yourself
Warner Bros. Pictures on Wikimedia Commons
This theme had more wisdom than most adult shows. It encouraged kindness, friendship, and positivity. Kids did not just sing it — they lived by it.
15. “Gilmore Girls” – Where You Lead
Warner Bros. Television on Wikimedia Commons
It was cozy, honest, and totally heartfelt. The theme felt like a promise between mother and daughter. It still brings up memories of coffee, fast dialogue, and Stars Hollow.
16. “The O.C.” – California
Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. on Wikimedia Commons
This one hit right in the feelings. Dreamy vocals and coastal vibes made it stand out. Even if you never lived that lifestyle, you felt like you were in it for 30 seconds.