Theme songs are an important element in television productions, helping to establish the tone and create an emotional bond between the viewer and the show. Sometimes, theme songs are created specifically for a production. Other times, they are adapted from existing music. Even if a television show does not have a theme song with lyrics, they still use specific melodies and notes that are easily recognizable by viewers.

Below are some examples of how theme songs aid in a television series’ storytelling.

Giving Background Information

The Fresh Prince of Bel Air is arguably one of the most well-known television theme songs. Its lyrics contain important information about the plot, which is particularly useful for new viewers to the show who are catching one of the episodes mid-season.

“THE FRESH PRINCE OF BEL AIR Intro HD” by DerIntroViewer

The Brady Bunch is another example of a theme song that gives background information about the show for new viewers.

“Brady Bunch,The (Intro) S4 (1972)” by RetroAlexander

Setting the Tone

Theme songs are also a quick and easy way to establish the tone of the show, whether it is a light hearted series, an action-filled one, a drama, and more.

The Monkees, for example, is a sitcom about a band trying to make it in the world of rock ‘n roll. The show’s fun and catchy theme song told viewers what to expect from the show, which was that The Monkees actually do “monkey around.”

“The Monkees Opening and Closing Themes” by TheMaddster2000

American Horror Story‘s creepy intro song utilizes “nonlinear” sounds (sounds emitted by young, scared animals or a dissonant chord) to elicit feelings of fear and suspense.

“American Horror Story – Theme Song – Cesar Davila Irizarry and Charlie Clouser” by Horrormoviefan7

Establishing the Location / Environment / Time Period

Theme music can also help paint a clearer picture of the type of setting the show takes place at.

Hawaii Five-0‘s theme song features a surf rock vibe that goes along perfectly with the show’s location.

“Hawaii 5-0 Intro” by Mario Ladouceur

Futurama‘s theme song also does a great job of using “futuristic” sound effects to complement the show’s theme of being set in the future.

“Futurama theme song” by Futurama

If you are looking for a professional to help you create a theme song for your next production, check out our online Nevada Production Directory to find music arrangers and composers, music supervisors, or sound designers in Nevada. You can also drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory!

If you are a professional and experienced music arranger / composer, music supervisor, or sound designer and are not yet listed in our Nevada Production Directory, you can learn more about how to sign up for the NPD here.

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