All In The Family’s Theme Song Was A Hit On Music Charts
source: All in the Family/MeTV
In 1972, the American television sitcom “All in the Family” introduced viewers to the iconic theme song “Those Were the Days,” which went on to become a hit on music charts. The show, created by Norman Lear, premiered on January 12, 1971, and quickly gained popularity for its bold and controversial portrayal of social and political issues through the lens of the Bunker family.
“Those Were the Days” was written by Charles Strouse, with lyrics by Lee Adams, and was performed by Carroll O’Connor (who played Archie Bunker) and Jean Stapleton (who portrayed Edith Bunker). The song captured the essence of nostalgia and reflected on a bygone era that Archie longed for, contrasting with the changing times and his often bigoted views.
When the theme song was released as a single, it resonated with audiences and became a surprise hit on music charts. It reached number 43 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1972 and remained on the charts for several weeks. Its success was fueled by the show’s popularity and the relatability of the lyrics to a wide range of listeners.
The song’s opening lines, “Boy, the way Glen Miller played / Songs that made the hit parade,” evoked a sense of longing for the music and culture of the past, emphasizing the generational divide that was a recurring theme in the series. The catchy melody, combined with O’Connor and Stapleton’s heartfelt performances, struck a chord with audiences and helped solidify the show’s cultural impact.
The success of “Those Were the Days” showcased the crossover potential of television theme songs during that era. It demonstrated that a memorable theme song could not only enhance a show’s identity but also have a life of its own beyond the small screen. The popularity of the song further cemented “All in the Family” as a groundbreaking and influential television series.
Through its powerful storytelling, social commentary, and memorable theme song, “All in the Family” left an indelible mark on American television history. The success of “Those Were the Days” demonstrated the show’s ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels, including through the universal language of music.