These days, most of my TV time happens after my little ones are snug in bed. At that hour, I’m all about lighthearted fun, but sadly, sitcoms today just don’t hit the same notes as those from my childhood. Modern comedies seem so focused on being edgy, sporting darker characters and complex plots that I barely recognize them. Gone are the days of live studio audiences, laugh tracks, and catchy theme songs that stick with you long after the credits roll.
Back in the ’80s, prime-time sitcoms were the highlight of my evenings. I would snuggle up with my family at 8 p.m. for that magical hour filled with laughter and warmth. The moment the theme song began, a wave of nostalgia would wash over me, and I’d feel right at home with characters that felt like family. If I hear any of these classic theme songs now, it’s a surefire way to bring a tear to my eye.
Here are a few that are guaranteed to stir up some emotions:
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Cheers
Who hasn’t wished to find a place where everybody knows their name? The theme song from Cheers, penned by Gary Portnoy and Judy Hart Angelo, strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and sentimentality. The show beautifully encapsulates the essence of friendship and love, even amidst its quirky characters. -
Taxi
This theme song doesn’t need lyrics to make you feel emotional. Titled “Angela,” it’s a stunning instrumental piece crafted by Bob James. It perfectly captures the spirit of late ’70s and early ’80s New York, evoking the deep camaraderie among the characters in Taxi. -
Who’s the Boss?
The theme song “Brand New Life” (written by Martin Cohan and Blake Hunter) starts off innocently enough, but then hits you hard with its bridge: “There were times / When I lost a dream or two / Found the trail, and at the end was you.” You can’t help but feel a swell of joy for Tony as he navigates fatherhood and his relationship with Angela. -
Golden Girls
“Thank you for being a friend…” is a phrase that can bring tears to anyone’s eyes. The theme from Golden Girls encapsulates the beauty of lifelong friendship, and it always reminds me of my grandparents, who loved spending winters in sunny places like Florida. -
Punky Brewster
Gary Portnoy’s “Every Time I Turn Around” is a sugary delight that captures Punky’s journey as an orphan and her heartwarming bond with Henry. The lyrics remind us of the power of companionship: “You may be lonely and then / One day you’re smiling again.” And let’s not forget the adorable duo of Punky and her pup! -
Laverne & Shirley
“Shlemiel, schlemazl, Hasenpfeffer Incorporated!” These lyrics might have been a mystery to me as a kid, but I loved every moment of Laverne & Shirley. The show was all about friendship, fun, and doing things your own way—values that resonate even more as an adult. -
Family Ties
The theme song “Without Us,” crafted by Jeff Barry and Tom Scott, is perhaps the most emotional of them all. The Keatons felt like my own family, and the lyrics, “What would we do, baby / Without us?” hit you right in the feels, reminding us of the importance of family bonds.
While ’80s sitcoms may not have been the epitome of depth and sophistication, their theme songs had a unique ability to make you believe in the heart and soul of the show. Despite the modern critique of these classics, they hold a cherished place in our hearts.
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In summary, the ’80s sitcoms and their iconic theme songs have left a lasting impact, evoking nostalgia and emotions that many of us still cherish today.