Show Tunes

Today, we’re diving into one of the most iconic TV theme songs of all time: the opening theme to Malcolm in the Middle.

You know the one— it’s upbeat, catchy, rebellious, and practically impossible to forget. You can already hear it in your head right now, can't you?

This barnstorming theme, composed by the legendary alt-rock duo They Might Be Giants, isn’t just another TV intro – it is doorway to the late 90s, early noughties.

Boiled down to just 30 seconds there’s not an inch of fat to be found in Boss Of Me. In fact, the song is so unforgettable that many folks will instantly sing along, even if they weren’t necessarily fans of the show, even years after the show’s last episode aired in 2006.

(image: RTL Netherlands)

The final Show Tunes of 2024 is a proper classic

The theme to Game of Thrones is one that you could easily guess in a pub quiz, even if there’s a rabble spouting of nonsense at the table next to you, and if you’re likely to wince when someone says ‘Winter is coming’ in a faux Northern accent.

That is to say that the theme is one of most recognizable and iconic television scores ever created - and its creation is as intricate and thoughtful as the show itself.

Ramin Djawadi, the composer, had the unenviable task of capturing the grand scale of George R.R. Martin's world and translating it into a musical piece that would strike right at the hearts and souls of viewers who’d already take to the material on a deep emotional level.

The Thunderbirds theme, composed by Barry Gray, is one of the most iconic pieces of television music ever...

...instantly recognizable for its bold, heroic orchestration. First airing in 1965, the British sci-fi series created by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson became a beloved classic, with its blend of puppetry, futuristic technology, and action-packed plots. Gray's composition, featuring sweeping brass fanfares and cinematic orchestration, perfectly captured the high-stakes world of the show, adding excitement and grandeur to its thrilling rescues and advanced machines.

The theme’s lasting cultural impact is undeniable, becoming a symbol of British pop culture. Inspired by Hollywood blockbusters and military marches, Gray’s music conveyed a sense of bravery, adventure, and urgency, making it a perfect fit for the global, elite organization of International Rescue.

Over the years, the theme has been performed by orchestras, remixed, and parodied, cementing its place in the collective consciousness. Nearly six decades later, Thunderbirdsand its theme continue to be celebrated for their imagination and influence—though we can all agree, Thunderbird 2 was the best!

In Episode 10 of Show Tunes, Stephen Steps Lowe takes a deep dive into the iconic theme song of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

We look at how Joss Whedon envisioned the show's opening credits to blend the eerie atmosphere of horror with a lively rock 'n roll vibe, signaling that Buffy was far from a typical victim. Originally aiming for a somber instrumental intro, Whedon quickly realized the need for a more upbeat, rebellious sound that captured the show's quirky, youthful essence.

After a failed attempt with a Hollywood composer, Alyson Hannigan suggested the band Nerf Herder, who composed and recorded the unforgettable theme in just a few hours. The track became a defining part of the show’s identity, capturing Buffy’s fight against darkness while balancing her high school life.

The song's energetic riff became synonymous with the show, and its infectious melody resonated with fans, becoming an anthem of sorts. While the lyrics don't directly reference the show's plot or characters, they capture the spirit of Buffy’s dual life as a high school student and a vampire slayer.

The theme’s success went beyond its initial run, even being released as a single and remaining a beloved part of Buffy fandom. Despite its cultural impact, the song's humble beginnings and rapid recording process show how a bit of indie spirit helped define a generation of fans.

In this episode of Show Tunes, Stephen Steps Lowe explores the iconic theme song for The Muppet Show

....composed by Jim Henson and Sam Pottle and written in 1976, the song became a key part of the show’s identity, setting the stage for the fun, eccentric world of the Muppets. Henson wanted the theme to be a joyful invitation, not just an introduction, which is reflected in the catchy and celebratory lyrics, "It's time to play the music, it's time to light the lights." The upbeat orchestration, with its brass, strings, and rhythm section, perfectly matched the whimsical antics of characters like Kermit, Miss Piggy, and Fozzie Bear.

The theme song quickly became a symbol of the Muppets' charm, with its infectious tune becoming part of pop culture. It was covered, parodied, and featured in countless adaptations, from Muppet movies to theme park attractions. The song’s success is a testament to its universal appeal, making it an essential part of the Muppets’ legacy.

With its playful, irreverent energy, the Muppet Show theme remains one of the most recognizable and beloved TV openings of all time.

The iconic theme song to The Prisoner (first hitting screens in 1967), is composed by Ron Grainer, and has been reckoned as one of the most memorable and d

Ronald Erle Grainer (11 August 1922 – 21 February 1981) was an influential Australian composer, known for his work in the UK during the 1960s and 70s. He composed iconic theme music for TV shows like Doctor Who, Steptoe and Son, and Tales of the Unexpected, and also scored films such as The Omega Man (1971) and The Assassination Bureau (1969).

Grainer's theme was chosen after two other composers, Robert Farnon and Wilfred Josephs, created themes that were rejected by series executive producer Patrick McGoohan.

It’s Movember as we record this, so there can be no better time than now to pull out our Hawaiian shirts, dust off the Ferrari and wax that Mustache…

....because this week, well this week, we are doing this:

Magnum P.I.'s theme is one of those rare TV moments that perfectly captures the essence of the show it represents.

It’s not just that it’s catchier than a dose of the seasonal flu, it’s downright iconic in its own right, immediately recognizable and full of energy.

Even if you have never seen the show, you know the tune, you know the names and you want to believe

The iconic theme song for cult sci-fi show, The X-Files was composed by Mark Snow, an American composer best known for his work in television and film. Instantly recognizable for its eerie, atmospheric sound, it became synonymous with the show’s mysterious, supernatural tone.

The theme song for The Sopranos, Woke Up This Morning is written by the criminally underrated, Brixton band, Alabama 3.

The track, for which, Alabama 3, rightly or wrongly, are perhaps best known, perfectly captures the essence of the series. Its blend of blues, rock, and electronic elements creates a gritty, atmospheric sound that mirrors the classic show’s exploration of the American mob life.

Unless this is all a fevered slip in the shower dream sequence we are uncovering one of the biggest and best themes ever: the iconic tune for Dallas.

This is episode four of our run, where, assuming we don’t get cancelled, like some of the shows we will go on to mention, we are looking at some of the best gosh darned TV themes of all time. The theme for this unmissable slice of 80s prime time TV was composed by Jerrold Immel, capturing the show's supposed essence of drama and intrigue. Immel's composition features a distinctive blend of orchestral and contemporary elements. That’s a polite way of saying it is overblown and pompous. Not unlike some of the shoulder pads on offer, eh?