In contemporary television, much of my viewing occurs after my children have settled down for the night. During this time, I lean towards lighthearted shows, yet I find myself longing for the sitcoms of my childhood. Today’s comedies often strive for edge and complexity, featuring darker characters that starkly contrast with the warmth I remember. Moreover, modern shows typically shy away from the charm of a live studio audience, laugh tracks, and especially those memorable theme songs that once defined an era.
Growing up in the ’80s, prime-time sitcoms were a cherished family ritual. At 8 p.m., our living room would fill with the comforting sounds of familiar theme songs, instantly enveloping me in nostalgia and excitement to reconnect with beloved characters who felt like family. Even now, hearing those tunes can evoke a wave of emotion, often bringing me to tears.
Here are seven theme songs from the ’80s that are guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings:
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Cheers
Who doesn’t yearn for a place where everyone knows your name? The theme from Cheers, crafted by Gary Portnoy and Judy Hart Angelo, is one of the most iconic tear-jerkers. Its sweet melody beautifully complements the show’s themes of friendship and love, even among its quirky characters. -
Taxi
The theme music for Taxi, known as “Angela,” is a lyrical-less composition by Bob James that stirs deep emotions in me. This enchanting piece perfectly captures the essence of New York during the late ’70s and early ’80s, reflecting the camaraderie shared among the show’s characters. -
Who’s the Boss?
“Brand New Life,” the theme for Who’s the Boss?, penned by show creators Martin Cohan and Blake Hunter, starts off innocently but hits hard with its heartfelt bridge. It evokes feelings of happiness as we root for Tony to create a loving home for his daughter and perhaps find love with Angela. -
Golden Girls
“Thank you for being a friend…” How can anyone hold back tears when the Golden Girls theme plays? This show, while often hilarious, ultimately revolves around enduring friendships, and the song brings back fond memories of my grandparents who used to winter in sunny locales. -
Punky Brewster
The sweet theme song “Every Time I Turn Around,” also by Gary Portnoy, captures Punky’s journey as an orphan who finds solace in her relationship with Henry. The lyrics highlight their mutual need for companionship, evoking nostalgia and joy. -
Laverne & Shirley
The catchy opening lines of Laverne & Shirley may have sounded nonsensical to kids, but the show celebrated friendship and authenticity. Looking back, I appreciate how the theme song encapsulated their spirit of independence and fun. -
Family Ties
The theme song “Without Us,” composed by Jeff Barry and Tom Scott, is perhaps the most emotional of all. Family Ties presented a family dynamic that resonated deeply with viewers, and the lyrics poignantly ask, “What would we do, baby / Without us?”—a sentiment that can overwhelm the heart.
While ’80s sitcoms might have been light on depth and at times absurd, their theme songs resonated with genuine heart and warmth. They remain a nostalgic reminder of a simpler time, and no matter the critique, these shows hold a special place in our hearts.
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In summary, the theme songs of ’80s sitcoms evoke profound feelings of nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of cherished moments spent with family and friends, both on-screen and off.