Episode 122

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Published on:

23rd Jul 2024

Exploring the Evolution of TV Theme Songs in the 70s and 80s

Today's episode delved into the surprising lack of mainstream musicians creating theme songs for TV shows in the 70s and 80s. While some artists like Barry Manilow found success with jingles, it was not common for well-known musicians to create TV theme songs. The host also hinted at upcoming discussions on AI-generated content for the week. Stay tuned for more insights and updates on the next episode!

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Transcript

In the podcast episode, the host discusses how theme songs in the 70s and 80s were not commonly performed by mainstream musicians for TV shows. The host mentions that during that era, there were few well-known musicians creating theme songs for television programs, with exceptions like Andrew Gold, Jack Jones, Cindy Greco, John Sebastian, and Waylon Jennings. However, it was not a widespread practice at the time.

One notable musician who delved into creating jingles and theme songs was Barry Manilow. He gained popularity for his jingle for McDonald's, "Two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame seed bun." Manilow's success in creating jingles led him to collaborate with artists like Bette Midler before establishing his own successful solo career.

The podcast episode suggests that mainstream musicians in the 70s and 80s were more focused on their music careers and less inclined to create theme songs for TV shows, contrasting with the present-day where collaborations between musicians and television productions are more common. The episode provides insight into the historical context of theme song creation in the music industry and how it has evolved over time.

Barry Manilow was a significant figure in the creation of jingles and theme songs, as highlighted in the podcast episode. One of his notable works was the iconic McDonald's jingle: "Two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions on a sesame seed bun." This jingle became widely recognized and associated with the fast-food chain.

Barry Manilow's talent for creating catchy and memorable jingles extended beyond McDonald's. He was known for his work in the advertising industry, composing jingles for various products and brands. His ability to craft music that resonated with audiences made him a sought-after figure in the world of advertising and marketing.

Furthermore, the podcast episode mentioned that Barry Manilow transitioned from creating jingles to working with artists like Bette Midler. His success in the jingle industry paved the way for his career as a musician and performer. Despite his collaborations with other artists, Barry Manilow's impact on the jingle industry and his ability to create memorable tunes for commercials solidified his reputation as a versatile and talented musician.

The podcast host emphasizes the importance of smiling at someone to brighten their day. This simple act of kindness can have a significant impact on others and create a positive ripple effect. By encouraging listeners to smile at someone, the host is promoting a sense of community and connection among the audience.

Furthermore, the host expresses deep gratitude for the support of the listeners. They acknowledge that the audience's presence and engagement are what keep the podcast going. This gratitude highlights the host's appreciation for the listeners and the value they bring to the podcast.

Incorporating these elements into daily interactions can foster a more positive and supportive environment. By spreading kindness through smiles and expressing gratitude for the support received, individuals can contribute to creating a more uplifting and connected community.

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About the Podcast

5 Minutes With Grey Hair Dave
Wisdom, wit and Sarcasm from a Boomer
Well, it's me just being me.
Welcome to 5 Minutes with Gray Hair Dave!
Hello, everyone! I'm Gray Hair Dave, and I'm thrilled to introduce my new podcast, which will run for about 5 to 10 minutes each episode. I plan to share these episodes daily, despite my full-time job, so expect some flexibility in release times.
In this podcast, I'll be sharing my life experiences, having worked in various industries from paper mills to airlines, and even running a dance studio. I've also had my fair share of personal challenges, including two marriages that didn't work out, but that's life, and I'm here to share the wisdom I've gained.
I'm also excited to talk about my new venture, Boomer Podcasting, where I aim to teach fellow baby boomers and anyone interested in podcasting how to share their stories and leave a legacy.
This podcast isn't just for baby boomers, though. I welcome listeners of all generations to join in as I discuss life lessons, my new business, and a range of topics from family and friendships to music, TV shows, cars, technology, books, historical events, and even encounters with famous individuals.
I promise to keep the content upbeat and child-friendly, with no cursing or ranting. I've got a lot planned for the first 30 days and am open to more ideas. So, stay tuned for engaging stories, reflections on past decades, and discussions on holiday traditions.
Remember, this podcast is for everyone, and I want to show that anyone can podcast, even with just a phone. I'm looking forward to sharing more and hope you'll join me on this journey. Keep an eye out for my website, which will be up soon, and feel free to reach out with suggestions or just to say hi.
Thanks for listening, and I can't wait to connect with you all through my podcast, 5 Minutes with Gray Hair Dave. Spread the word, and let's enjoy this adventure together!
Gray Hair Dave
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About your host

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Dave Carter

I am a podcaster talking to Baby Boomers about podcasting and why they should get into the Indie Podcast sector. I have a course they can buy within membership also. Just so everyone knows, it is not mandatory but helpful. I hope you enjoy the show.