Why Certain TV Show Theme Songs Can Darken Even the Best Shows

Are there any TV shows that you love deeply but can’t stand the theme music? If so, you are not alone. In this article, we will explore some of the most notable examples where the chase for perfection in the show is completely derailed by its theme music. Whether you are a fan of classic television shows or modern series, this journey through memorable theme tunes will provide an interesting insight into what makes exceptional shows less enjoyable sometimes.

Don’t Come for Me: The Brady Bunch – The Most Sappy Theme Ever

If you grew up in the late 1960s or early 1970s, you probably cannot forget the famous “The Brady Bunch” theme song. Its saccharine harmony and overly twee lyrics will stick in your memory for a lifetime, much to the chagrin of many grown-ups. The song’s sweet overtones bear no resemblance to the reality of the show, where the characters had to deal with awkward family situations, and the show tackled more substantial themes like class differences and parental conflicts.

The Car Song from ‘My Mother, the Car’ – A Terrible Yet Adorable Misfire

My Mother, the Car’s theme song, if you can call it that, is arguably one of the worst you will come across. Two minutes of cute, lovable nonsense accelerate to the point where it becomes a joyful, albeit bizarre, experience. The song mimics the action of the show with lyrics about caring for a car, and if that wasn’t enough, you can’t help but smile.

Star Trek: Enterprise – The Worst Theme Tune in Television History

Star Trek: Enterprise suffered from more than just poor plotlines. The disastrous theme song, “Where My Heart Will Take Me,” sung by the British tenor Russell Watson, includes a cover version of Rod Stewart's “Faith of the Heart” with some added verses about making comedic political statements. This song received such intense backlash from fans that fans protested outside Paramount Studios. The show itself, however, was critically acclaimed and considered a strong addition to the Star Trek franchise. At the end of the show, the producers appeased the fans by replacing the theme with the beautiful “The Archer’s Theme,” which was actually a different version of the original opening credits.

The Opening Credits of Homeland – Endure the Music, Love the Show

While Homeland is widely regarded as a fantastic series, its theme song is often criticized for its absurdity and length. The show's opening credits feature a jazz trumpet backed by a noise resembling toddler’s music-making attempts. Political audio clips and out-of-focus black and white visuals enhance the surreal experience. The whole segment is designed to create suspense and build tension, but many viewers find it irksome and distracting. Fans of the show often avoid watching the opening credits to fully enjoy its narrative depth and character development.

A Timeless Classic: The Theme to the Wonder Woman Series

The theme to the old Wonder Woman series, starring Lynda Carter, remains a cherished piece of television history. Sung by Bette Midler, the iconic theme is a mix of power, romance, and a dash of patriotism. Its lyrics encapsulate the show's message of hope, justice, and empowerment. The catchy and beautifully crafted melody includes memorable lines like 'Wonder Woman, Wonder Woman, All the world's waiting for you…' The song is a true testament to its show's enduring legacy and the aspirations of its characters.

While the themes discussed here bring out a mixture of love and hatred, they collectively demonstrate that a great show can be marred by a poorly composed theme. But don't forget that the true enjoyment lies in the narrative, character development, and the underlying themes that make these shows so compelling and memorable.