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Soundcheck

Wednesday, April 23, 2008
  • Old TV

    Where Did The Memorable TV Theme Songs Go?

    Themes from classic television shows are among the most memorable songs ever recorded, yet few modern shows open with one. Today: Find out what happened to the TV theme song. Also: keyboardist Marco Benevento of the indie instrumental Benevento Russo duo talks about his new solo album and performs live in our studio. This is a repeat edition of Soundcheck.

They're Creepy and They're Kooky

Most people can sing at least a few lines from the songs that opened television shows like "Gilligan's Island," "The Brady Bunch," or "The Jeffersons." Yet few programs today kick off with a musical explanation of the series' premise. We ask Eric Deggans, media critic at the St. Petersburg Times, why the TV theme song is an endangered species. And longtime lyricists Marilyn and Alan Bergman talk about creating themes for "Good Times," "Alice," and other hit shows.

Tell us: Do you have a favorite TV theme song? Do you miss opening themes?

Our blog: John proposes a mash-up of two TV themes.

Eric Deggans' story in the St. Petersburg Times
Alan and Marilyn Bergman's website

Duo Guy Goes Solo

Keyboardist Marco Benevento earned his chops as one half of the hard-touring, jammy Benevento-Russo Duo. In 2007, he drew praise for his three-CD set of live performances recorded at the now-shuttered nightclub Tonic. Benevento joins us to perform songs from his first solo studio album, "Invisible Baby."

Marco Benevento's Web site

The Swell Season in The Greene Space

Soundcheck

Joshua Bell in The Greene Space

Soundcheck