There's a certain magic when a TV show's theme song feels like it was written just for it. Think of The Rembrandts' "I'll Be There for You" and how it instantly evokes Central Perk, or the way Nerf Herder's punk-rock riff set the tone for Buffy's monster-of-the-week battles. But beyond those iconic pairings, a treasure trove of classic rock anthems remains untapped, waiting to elevate a series to new heights.
While the CSI franchise famously leaned on The Who, and Tour of Duty used the Rolling Stones' "Paint It, Black," the possibilities are endless. Here are 10 classic rock songs that would be a perfect fit for these beloved shows, offering a fresh sonic layer to their storytelling.
"Fight the Good Fight" by Triumph for The Good Fight
The legal drama The Good Fight follows Diane Lockhart and her goddaughter Maia as they rebuild their careers after a financial scandal upends their lives. They join a firm that takes on police brutality, the MeToo movement, and online harassment—truly fighting for justice. Triumph's 1981 anthem "Fight the Good Fight" is a rallying cry about resilience and persistence, making it the perfect thematic opener for a series about standing up for what's right.
"Jailbreak" by AC/DC for Prison Break
It's almost too obvious: a show about escaping prison and a song about escaping prison. AC/DC's "Jailbreak" tells the story of a man breaking out, just like Lincoln Burrows in Prison Break. While the show's later seasons veer into conspiracy territory, the raw energy of this track would perfectly capture the adrenaline of the early escape attempts. It's a match made in rock-and-roll heaven.
"California Girls" by David Lee Roth for Baywatch
Let's be honest: Baywatch was as much about the slow-motion runs on the beach as it was about lifeguard drama. While Jimi Jamison's "I'm Always Here" is a solid opener, the end credits could use a boost. David Lee Roth's 1984 cover of "California Girls" brings a playful, lascivious edge that perfectly matches the show's sun-soaked aesthetic. It's a wink to the audience, acknowledging the real reason we tuned in.
"She Drives Me Crazy" by Fine Young Cannibals for I Love Lucy
Lucy Ricardo's schemes always drove Ricky up the wall, but his love for her never wavered. Fine Young Cannibals' 1988 hit "She Drives Me Crazy" captures that exact dynamic—the frustration and adoration intertwined. While the song came decades after the show, its lyrics about being driven nuts yet unable to walk away are tailor-made for the iconic sitcom couple.
"Through the Fire and the Flames" by DragonForce for Game of Thrones
DragonForce's seven-minute power metal epic is a whirlwind of war, survival, and epic battles—just like Game of Thrones. The song's imagery of warriors riding into battle mirrors the struggles in Westeros, and the title itself echoes Daenerys Targaryen's fiery rebirth. At 200 BPM, it would inject adrenaline into any battle scene, making it a perfect fit for the series' most intense moments.
"Got the Time" by Anthrax for 24
Jack Bauer's day is a race against the clock, and Anthrax's frantic "Got the Time" captures that urgency perfectly. The song's breakneck pace and ticking-clock energy would be the ideal soundtrack for the show's countdown sequences. It's a punk-metal anthem that screams "every second counts," just like the series itself.
"Highway to Hell" by AC/DC for Supernatural
Sam and Dean Winchester spend their lives hunting demons and navigating the road to damnation. AC/DC's "Highway to Hell" is practically their theme song—a gritty, rebellious track about embracing the chaos. It would fit perfectly during a montage of the brothers driving the Impala, hunting monsters, and facing their own demons.
"Don't Stop Me Now" by Queen for Breaking Bad
Walter White's transformation from mild-mannered teacher to drug kingpin is a wild ride, and Queen's "Don't Stop Me Now" captures that unhinged energy. The song's explosive optimism and relentless drive mirror Walter's descent into power. It's a track that screams "I'm on top of the world," even as everything crumbles around him.
"Born to Run" by Bruce Springsteen for Stranger Things
The kids of Hawkins are always on the run—from monsters, from the government, from the Upside Down. Bruce Springsteen's "Born to Run" is an anthem of youthful rebellion and escape, perfectly matching the show's 80s nostalgia and its themes of friendship and survival. It's a song that says "we're getting out of here," which is exactly what the gang tries to do every season.
"Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi for The Office
Dunder Mifflin's employees are just trying to get by, and Bon Jovi's "Livin' on a Prayer" is the ultimate anthem for working-class perseverance. The song's themes of holding on and making it through tough times resonate with the office's everyday struggles. It would be the perfect track for a season finale montage, celebrating the small victories of the Scranton branch.
These classic rock songs have the power to elevate a show's emotional beats, add layers to its characters, and create unforgettable moments. Whether it's the raw energy of AC/DC or the epic scope of DragonForce, the right song can make a series truly iconic. So, showrunners, take note—your next perfect soundtrack might just be a classic rock hit waiting in the wings.
