5 ’80s TV Theme Songs People Still Recognize Instantly

TV theme songs are always enjoyable, but the ones from the 1980s hold a special place in television history. From introducing memorable characters to delivering instantly catchy melodies, these opening tunes can still bring entire shows to mind. Here are five ’80s TV themes that many people can still hum along to.

1. “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” – Cheers

Few TV themes are as closely tied to a setting as “Where Everybody Knows Your Name.” Written by Gary Portnoy and Judy Hart Angelo, the song served as the musical introduction to Cheers, the Boston bar where the sitcom’s characters met week after week. WatchMojo placed it among the standout TV themes from the 1980s. Even if it has been years since you last watched Cheers, the tune can still summon the show’s neighborhood feel.

2. “Thank You for Being a Friend” – The Golden Girls

Cynthia Fee’s version of “Thank You for Being a Friend” became inseparable from The Golden Girls. Originally written and recorded by Andrew Gold, the song took on new meaning through the sitcom’s opening credits. Best Life points to its lasting familiarity among viewers. For longtime fans, the lyrics are almost impossible to hear without picturing Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia together and laughing.

3. “Believe It or Not” – The Greatest American Hero

Joey Scarbury’s “Believe It or Not” accomplished something many television themes never do: it became a true pop hit. The song from The Greatest American Hero reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, according to Stereogum. That success gave it an audience beyond viewers of the ABC series. It works both as a TV opener and as a standalone song.

4. “Miami Vice Theme” – Miami Vice

Jan Hammer’s instrumental theme for Miami Vice is recognizable even without lyrics. Its synth-driven sound matched the show’s sleek style and helped set the mood before each episode began. Stereogum noted that the song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it a true piece of 1980s pop culture. The mix of electronic music, stylish visuals, and fast-paced action made the opening feel unlike anything else on television.

5. “The A-Team Theme” – The A-Team

The theme from The A-Team blended narration, percussion, brass, and a strong sense of urgency into an opening that was hard to forget. Classic Gold included it among its picks for memorable 1980s television songs. No lyrics were necessary for this one to stick. For anyone who grew up with the show, just a few seconds of the music can bring back the memories.