A Decade of Iconic Tunes
The 1990s were a time of grunge music, high-waisted jeans, and some of the most iconic TV shows and movies to ever hit our screens. One thing that set this decade apart from others was the memorable soundtracks that accompanied many of our favorite films and shows. From catchy opening credits themes to epic scores that elevated entire movies, the 1990s soundtracks continue to get us going to this day.
1. “The X-Files” Theme
The haunting, pulsing theme from Chris Carter’s “The X-Files” perfectly captures the show’s eerie atmosphere and mystery. With its memorable ditty of the FBI theme and the iconic “bum-bum-BUM” bass line, it’s no wonder this theme remains etched in our collective memory.
2. “Friends” Theme
Who didn’t sing along to “I’ll Be There for You” every Thursday night when “Friends” aired? The catchy opening credits theme from The Rembrandts’ song remains one of the most iconic TV theme songs of all time, and its nostalgia factor is off the charts.
3. “Seinfeld” Theme
Jerry Seinfeld’s classic comedy show wouldn’t be the same without the iconic piano riff that accompanies the show’s opening credits. Composed by Jonathan Wolff, the theme sets the tone for the witty banter and wacky misadventures that follow.
4. “Saved by the Bell” Theme
Who wouldn’t want to be saved by the bell? This catchy tune, composed by Neal McCoy, gets stuck in our heads every time we think of the gang at Bayside High School. The show may have been cheesy, but the theme remains an ode to ’90s pop culture.
5. “Pinky and the Brain” Theme
From the genius of composer Billy Vera comes this catchy theme song that never fails to make us smile. Who can resist singing along to the whimsical melody and clever lyrics of “Pinky and the Brain”?
6. “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” Theme
Remember those epic team-ups, dramatic saves, and endless battles between good and evil? The iconic Power Rangers theme song from Haim Saban gets us pumped up for a thrilling adventure every time it plays.
7. “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” Theme
Will Smith’s classic TV show would be nothing without the catchy “Now, this is a story all about how…” The theme, performed by Will Smith and Quincy Jones, became an instant classic and launched Smith’s music career.
8. “Beavis and Butt-Head” Theme
From the iconic duo comes this absurd, hilarious theme song that still resonates today. Who wouldn’t want to sit back, snicker, and watch the duo of Beavis and Butt-Head mangle some poor unsuspecting music video?
9. “Space Jam” Theme
“Space Jam” – the movie where Looney Tunes meets basketball and the 90’s pop culture magic unfolds. The film’s theme, featuring Seal and R. Kelly, remains one of the most recognizable and beloved themes in film history.
10. “The Simpsons” Theme
“The Simpsons” TV show, without its equally iconic theme song, would be vastly different. Danny Elfman’s wacky tune is instantly recognizable, and its ability to capture the zany essence of Springfield’s favorite animated family has been unmatched since its introduction in 1989.
11. “Home Improvement” Theme
For those who grew up with Tim Taylor’s wisecracking carpentry escapades, the catchy theme from Grant Geissman becomes a symphony of joy. Who can forget the infamous “More Power” catchphrase?
12. “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” Finale
Speaking of iconic, what about that unforgettable “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” series finale? With its nostalgic vibes and emotional ending, the final song, “Laugh Now/Cry Later” featuring Will Smith, Puff Daddy, and Slick Rick, is etched in the collective memory of TV history.
13. “Friends” Finale Theme
“The Friends” series finale had its share of emotional moments, especially when “I’ll Be There for You” – the same opening credits theme we adore – becomes a sentimental earworm for Ross and Rachel’s tender goodbye. Get ready to sniffle at the nostalgia.
14. “Wayne’s World” Theme
It’s only fitting to pay tribute to the cinematic masterpiece “Wayne’s World” with its inimitable, ear-wormy theme song from Jimi Jamison and Jason Newsted. Who wouldn’t wanna “Schwing!” in the car?
15. “Hey Arnold!” Theme
From the creative geniuses behind Nickelodeon comes the underrated gem of an animated show, “Hey Arnold!,” whose theme song never fails to charm. Composer Craig Bartlett’s composition still gets our hearts warmed every time, and who wouldn’t want to “Hang in There, Baby”?
