As much as we love modern television, one of the elements we miss most from the classics is theme songs. New shows want to use that extra 90 seconds on stories, so you don’t get a catchy intro. However, the best themes never go out of style, so we’re flashing back to the good old days with a round up of our favorite Black TV theme songs.
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The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Obviously we had to start with one of the most popular, catchy themes of all-time. When Will performs this, people still get excited to sing every word.
The Jeffersons
Anyone who’s ever made a major move, personally or professionally, can’t help belting, “We’re movin’ on up to the east side!” Bonus points if you get your George Jefferson dance on.
Good Times
While things don’t usually work out for the Evans, they’ve always got each other, which keeps them in a positive space. That’s the message in the upbeat, fun theme. They laugh through the pain.
227
There’s nothing better than a song that instantly lets you know what the show is about. And that’s exactly what “227″ does. Before the episode starts, we already know the people in this building aren’t just neighbors, they’re family.
A Different World
Aretha Franklin’s soulful voice brilliantly matches the show’s HBCU setting. As she sings about entering “A Different World” it perfectly describes everything the young adults of Hillman are going through.
Moonlighting
This one is a bit of a cheat because “Moonlighting” isn’t exactly a Black show. But the theme was beautifully sung by the great Al Jarreau and became a hit as the series’ popularity took off. If you also had an aunt who loved this show, you heard it a lot.
Amen
The supremely underrated late ‘80s sitcom “Amen” has a churchy theme song that instantly lets viewers know this series is about a Black church where we’re going to laugh and praise.
Diff’rent Strokes
When you listen to the lyrics, the “Diff’rent Strokes” themse is extremely cheesy. But that’s part of the fun of revisting ‘80s TV, so just relax and enjoy it.
Barney Miller
You will not find a TV series with a better bass line than “Barney Miller.” These cops were different and the funky theme lets the audience know they’re in for something fun.
Living Single
Queen Latifah delivered another one of her unforgettable female empowerment anthems with the “Living Single” theme. This classic comedy is all about supporting your girls and so is the song.
Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper
TV themes are meant to be catchy so you hum along and think of the show whenever you sing it. With En Vogue’s harmonies leading the way, it’s impossible to get “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper” out of your head once you hear it.
Fame
Yes it’s a TV version of the movie theme, but that doesn’t make it any less awesome. Don’t act like I’m the only one who loves Debbie Allen’s mid-song speech and has it memorized.
Gimme a Break!
As a series, “Gimmie a Break!” is a mixed bag. There are certain episodes and storylines that definitely haven’t aged well. But Nell Carter’s powerhouse voice never goes out of style.
Moesha
What makes “Moesha” so cool is that it doesn’t feel like a TV theme song. Frankly, it’s just another one of Brandy’s unforgettable jams. And just a reminder, Frank was the worst.
Sanford & Son
The last thing you want is for the theme to feel out of place with the show. You’d be hard pressed to find a song that fits the show’s vibe and aesthetic better than “Sanford & Son.”
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