15 Greatest Black TV Theme Songs of All Time

Netflix just dropped the news that the vocal bible herself, Brandy Norwood, is lending her legendary pipes to a new rendition of the A Different World theme. Get ready to feel that HBCU spirit when it hits the streaming giant on September 24. The Cinderella star told TUDUM, “Singing this iconic theme song for A Different World means everything to me. It was one of those shows that I had to watch every time it came on. I remember the song and how it made me feel.” 

This made us think about the iconic theme songs that made us feel deeply. From “Movin’ on Up” to the streets of Bel-Air, Black TV theme songs have done more than open shows. They have celebrated culture, reflected changing times, and created unforgettable moments that continue to unite generations through music.

1. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1990-1996)

Performed by: DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
Arguably the most iconic TV theme song ever. There may be no TV theme song more universally known. Will Smith turned the show’s premise into a rap that became a pop culture phenomenon. Even people who never watched the series can recite the opening.