Before streaming platforms made skipping intros a reflex, theme songs reflected the art of storytelling. Some set the mood, but the best ones handed you the entire premise before the first scene. In less than a minute, you’d meet the characters, learn their backstory, and even catch a hint of the tone that set the stage. The theme songs of old TV shows really gave it all away. Here are some of the theme songs that were designed to open the door to a whole world.
#1: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Will Smith’s opening rap lays out the whole backstory in under a minute: playground trouble in West Philly, a worried mother, a quick plane ride, and a move to Aunt and Uncle’s mansion in Bel-Air. The lyrics set the tone and character for The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, folding social contrast, humor, and family into one quick verse so the pilot can jump straight into the comedy.
