There’s something magical about hearing a TV theme song that instantly transports you back to your childhood living room, sprawled out on the shag carpet with a bowl of cereal in hand. Back in the ’60s and ’70s, theme songs weren’t just catchy tunes—they were the heartbeat of the shows we loved, setting the mood and sticking in our heads long after the credits rolled. Whether it was a jaunty whistle, a swinging big band, or a folksy melody, these songs became as iconic as the shows themselves. Let’s dive into 13 TV theme songs from the ’60s and ’70s that still spark instant recognition—and maybe even a little humming.
1. The Andy Griffith Show (1960)
Even if you’ve never seen a full episode, chances are you’ve whistled along to The Andy Griffith Show’s theme song, officially titled “The Fishin’ Hole.” That simple, cheerful whistle paired with the image of Andy and little Opie heading to the fishing hole is pure Americana. The tune perfectly matched the show’s small-town charm and wholesome humor, becoming synonymous with Mayberry itself. Whistling the opening bars today still feels like a trip back to simpler times.
This theme is a reminder of how something so minimal—just a whistle and a gentle guitar—can evoke powerful nostalgia. It’s not just a song; it’s the sound of a bygone era when life moved a little slower.
2. Gilligan’s Island (1964)
“Just sit right back and you’ll hear a tale…” and instantly, you’re picturing a tiny boat setting sail with a quirky cast of characters. The theme song for Gilligan’s Island is storytelling at its finest, giving viewers a full rundown of the crew before the first scene even starts. Composed by George Wyle and Sherwood Schwartz, the catchy, sea-shanty vibe made it impossible not to sing along.
Even decades later, fans can rattle off “the Skipper too, the millionaire, and his wife…” without missing a beat. It’s a perfect example of how a theme song can stick with you, turning into a cultural touchstone.
3. The Brady Bunch (1969)
“This is the story of a lovely lady…” and you know exactly where this is headed. The Brady Bunch theme song didn’t just introduce the characters—it became a defining part of the show’s charm. Written by Frank De Vol and Sherwood Schwartz, the song’s catchy chorus and repetitive structure made it easy for kids (and adults) to memorize.
Hearing it today brings back memories of bell-bottoms, avocado-green kitchens, and good old-fashioned family sitcom chaos. It’s the musical equivalent of a warm, retro hug.
4. Mission: Impossible (1966)
Few theme songs make you feel like a secret agent quite like the pulse-pounding, fast-paced beat of Mission: Impossible. Lalo Schifrin’s iconic composition, with its driving rhythm and suspenseful horns, is as thrilling today as it was when it first hit the airwaves. That ticking time signature almost dares you not to get hyped.
This theme has endured through countless adaptations and reboots, proving that some tunes are just timeless. Hearing it instantly conjures up images of tape recorders self-destructing and daring espionage missions.
5. The Beverly Hillbillies (1962)
“Come and listen to a story ‘bout a man named Jed…” and suddenly, you’re picturing oil-rich hillbillies moving to Beverly Hills in their rickety truck. The bluegrass twang of The Beverly Hillbillies theme song, sung by Jerry Scoggins with Flatt and Scruggs on instruments, perfectly matched the show’s fish-out-of-water humor. It’s impossible not to smile at the upbeat, folksy tune.
The song didn’t just introduce the characters—it set the tone for the entire show. Even today, “black gold, Texas tea” is part of the pop culture lexicon, thanks to this catchy number.
6. Hawaii Five-O (1968)
The surf-rock instrumental that kicks off Hawaii Five-O is pure adrenaline. Composed by Morton Stevens, this theme song’s pounding drums and brass section immediately grab your attention and don’t let go. It’s the kind of tune that makes you want to grab a surfboard—or maybe just solve a crime.
Decades later, the theme remains one of the most recognizable in TV history, and it’s been covered by everyone from high school bands to rock groups. Hearing it today still brings to mind those sweeping shots of Hawaii’s stunning beaches and the classic line, “Book ’em, Danno.”
7. The Flintstones (1960)
“Flintstones, meet the Flintstones…” and just like that, you’re transported to the Stone Age suburbia of Bedrock. This animated classic’s theme song, written by Hoyt Curtin, William Hanna, and Joseph Barbera, is one of the most joyful jingles in TV history. Its bouncy melody and playful lyrics perfectly captured the show’s prehistoric hijinks.
Even if you haven’t watched an episode in years, you probably still know every word. It’s the kind of theme that sticks with you, proving that some tunes never go extinct.
8. Sanford and Son (1972)
That funky, unforgettable riff at the start of Sanford and Son is the work of none other than Quincy Jones. Titled “The Streetbeater,” the theme’s groovy bass line and jazzy vibe set the perfect tone for the show’s mix of humor and heart. It’s impossible to hear it without picturing Fred Sanford’s grumpy antics.
The song’s funky rhythm transcended the show, becoming a cultural staple all on its own. Even people who haven’t seen the series recognize that iconic groove.
9. The Addams Family (1964)
Snap twice and you’re instantly in the spooky, kooky world of The Addams Family. Vic Mizzy’s theme song, with its harpsichord melody and those iconic finger snaps, is a masterclass in setting a quirky tone. The lyrics introduced each character’s oddball charm while the tune stuck in your head for days.
It’s still one of the most beloved theme songs, spawning countless covers and parodies over the years. Hearing those snaps today brings back fond memories of Gomez, Morticia, and the whole creepy crew.
10. Bonanza (1959)
Though it technically started in 1959, Bonanza’s theme song rode strong into the ’60s, becoming synonymous with classic Western TV. Composed by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, the rousing, galloping melody evokes images of the Cartwright family riding across the Ponderosa Ranch. It’s bold, adventurous, and instantly recognizable.
The opening chords alone can make you feel like saddling up for a frontier adventure. Even if Westerns aren’t your thing, this theme song is pure, nostalgic gold.
11. Happy Days (1974)
“Sunday, Monday, happy days…” and just like that, you’re back in the 1950s, hanging out with Richie, Fonzie, and the gang. The upbeat theme song, performed by Pratt & McClain, perfectly captured the feel-good vibe of the show. It was so catchy, it even became a Billboard hit in 1976.
Hearing it today is like flipping through an old photo album of poodle skirts, jukeboxes, and leather jackets. It’s a musical time machine to simpler, sunnier days.
12. Green Acres (1965)
“Green Acres is the place to be…” and suddenly, you’re in the middle of a city-slicker-meets-country-folk comedy. The theme song, sung by stars Eddie Albert and Eva Gabor, perfectly captured the show’s whimsical clash of lifestyles. Its playful, back-and-forth duet format made it a standout among TV themes.
The quirky lyrics and catchy tune make it one of those songs that sticks with you long after the show’s over. It’s impossible not to smile when you hear it.
13. The Jeffersons (1975)
“Movin’ on up to the east side…” and you can’t help but feel the triumphant joy of George and Weezy’s rise to the top. The soulful theme song, “Movin’ On Up,” was sung by Ja’net DuBois and perfectly encapsulated the show’s message of success and perseverance. It’s upbeat, uplifting, and undeniably catchy.
Even today, it’s a song that makes you want to sing along, no matter where you hear it. It’s the perfect blend of music and message, making it one of the most memorable TV themes of all time.
These theme songs are more than just catchy tunes—they’re time capsules, each one holding memories of nights gathered around the TV with family and friends. They remind us of the shows that shaped our childhoods and the simpler times we all look back on fondly. Even today, hearing just a few notes can bring those feelings rushing back. So, whether you’re whistling The Andy Griffith Show or snapping along with The Addams Family, these songs prove that great TV music never fades.
