1. “The Jeffersons” – Ja’net DuBois
Yes, that iconic line, “Movin’ on up!” was sung by Ja’net DuBois, who played Willona Woods on Good Times. She didn’t just act, though—her voice gave the theme song for The Jeffersons its unforgettable energy. That catchy tune is all about triumph, and DuBois’s soulful voice made it an anthem for anyone dreaming big.
2. “Moonlighting” – Al Jarreau
This theme song for Moonlighting, the series that gave Bruce Willis his big break, was sung by jazz legend Al Jarreau. His smooth, jazzy style fit perfectly with the show’s playful, mysterious vibe, and the theme became a hit on its own. Jarreau’s voice brought class and charm, making the tune an instant classic.
3. “Friends” – The Rembrandts
Friends had one of the most beloved theme songs ever, but did you know The Rembrandts, a popular pop duo in the ’90s, were behind it? Their song “I’ll Be There for You” became an anthem for friendship and a defining part of the show. The band’s catchy tune made every episode feel like a reunion with pals, right from that famous clapping part.
4. “Maude” – Donny Hathaway
Soul icon Donny Hathaway, known for classics like “This Christmas,” lent his incredible voice to the theme song for Maude. The song, “And Then There’s Maude,” is full of attitude, just like Bea Arthur’s character, and Hathaway’s deep, resonant voice brought a powerful edge to the show’s opening.
5. “Alice” – Linda Lavin
Linda Lavin, who starred as Alice, also sang the show’s theme song, “There’s a New Girl in Town.” Lavin’s voice gave the song warmth and heart, fitting right in with Alice’s character as she navigated her life as a single mom in a new town. It was rare for the lead actress to sing the theme, but Lavin pulled it off beautifully.
6. “The Golden Girls” – Cindy Fee
While not a huge household name, Cynthia Fee’s voice has become iconic thanks to her rendition of “Thank You for Being a Friend” for The Golden Girls. Originally a song by Andrew Gold, Fee’s version became inseparable from the beloved show, bringing warmth and sincerity that made it one of TV’s most treasured themes.
7. “The Wonder Years” – Joe Cocker
Joe Cocker’s gritty, soulful cover of “With a Little Help from My Friends” was a stroke of genius for The Wonder Years. His powerful voice added weight to the coming-of-age series, creating an opening that could bring on a wave of nostalgia before the episode even began. It’s impossible to imagine the show without his unforgettable voice.
8. “Good Times” – Ja’net DuBois and Oren Waters
Ja’net DuBois strikes again! Not only did she sing for The Jeffersons, but she also sang the memorable theme for Good Times with Oren Waters. The two made the song a joyful anthem that perfectly matched the show’s themes of family and resilience. Their voices made “Good Times” a true feel-good tune.
9. “Baretta” – Sammy Davis Jr.
Sammy Davis Jr., the legendary Rat Pack singer, lent his smooth voice to the theme song of Baretta, called “Keep Your Eye on the Sparrow.” Sammy’s signature style added a cool, jazzy feel to the song, fitting perfectly with Robert Blake’s tough, streetwise character. This was definitely one of the more unique and memorable theme songs of its time.
10. “Family Ties” – Johnny Mathis and Deniece Williams
Johnny Mathis and Deniece Williams brought their magic to “Without Us,” the heartwarming theme for Family Ties. The duet between these two powerhouse singers added a whole new level of emotion to the song, setting the tone for the Keaton family’s stories. Mathis and Williams made it feel like a genuine celebration of family.
11. “The Nanny” – Ann Hampton Callaway
You may not recognize her name, but Ann Hampton Callaway’s jazzy vocals brought the unforgettable theme song of The Nanny to life. With humor, energy, and just the right amount of sass, her voice introduced us to Fran Fine in a way that was both funny and fitting. The theme quickly became a fan favorite.
12. “M*A*S*H” – Johnny Mandel
While Johnny Mandel was mainly known as a composer, he was an important part of creating the hauntingly beautiful “Suicide Is Painless,” the theme for MASH. Mandel’s song set the serious, bittersweet tone of the series, and his touch as a musician made it an unforgettable melody, unlike anything else on TV.
13. “Growing Pains” – B.J. Thomas and Jennifer Warnes
The theme song “As Long as We Got Each Other” was sung by none other than B.J. Thomas (of “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” fame) and Jennifer Warnes. Their duet added warmth and optimism to the show, making it a beloved family theme. Thomas’s voice in particular brought a comfortable, familiar feel to each episode.
14. “Happy Days” – Pratt & McClain
You may not recognize the names, but Pratt & McClain were well-known musicians who sang the theme for Happy Days. Their energetic voices brought a 1950s feel with a ’70s twist, creating an opening that made you want to tap your toes and smile along with the iconic cast. They gave “Sunday, Monday, Happy Days” a signature bounce.
15. “Dukes of Hazzard” – Waylon Jennings
Country legend Waylon Jennings didn’t just narrate The Dukes of Hazzard—he also sang the theme song, “Good Ol’ Boys.” His voice gave the tune a true country feel, capturing the Southern charm of the show. Jennings’s voice was a perfect fit, bringing grit and heart to a theme song as iconic as the General Lee itself.
16. “Who’s the Boss?” – Steve Wariner
Who’s the Boss? had the memorable theme song “Brand New Life,” and while the show’s version wasn’t sung by a major household name, country star Steve Wariner originally recorded it. Wariner’s voice added warmth and optimism to the hopeful lyrics, fitting Tony Micelli’s journey of finding a “brand new life” for his family. The show went with a slightly different recording, but Wariner’s touch remained in the melody.
17. “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father” – Harry Nilsson
Harry Nilsson, one of the most unique voices of the ‘70s, sang “Best Friend,” the gentle, warm-hearted theme for The Courtship of Eddie’s Father. Nilsson’s smooth, heartfelt vocals made this theme an emotional one that reflected the bond between Eddie and his father. The song felt less like a traditional TV theme and more like a lullaby, making it one of the most tender openings on TV.
From soul legends to country superstars, these musicians added a depth and richness to the shows they introduced each week. It’s fascinating to realize that these iconic voices became part of the stories we loved, bringing their own style to each tune and making TV openings memorable in a way that only music can.
