The 1990s were a golden age for sitcoms, and few shows are as fondly remembered as “Family Matters.” But beyond the lovable Winslow family and the iconic Steve Urkel, there’s another element that sticks in our minds: the theme song. Many fans might not realize the depth and subtle connections behind this seemingly simple intro. Let’s explore the “Family Matters” theme song, and uncover why it resonates even today, especially when you realize its surprising link to another 90s classic.
It turns out that the earworm behind “Family Matters,” like many other TGIF hits, comes from the same musical mastermind: Jesse Frederick. Yes, the same Jesse Frederick who gifted us the equally catchy “Full House” theme song. This revelation often leads to the kind of lightbulb moment my friend had – a hazy suspicion that these tunes are somehow related. And they are, in more ways than one.
Frederick wasn’t just a one-hit wonder in the sitcom theme song department. He also penned the openings for “Step By Step” and “Perfect Strangers,” solidifying his place as the king of feel-good TV intros. Understanding this shared DNA makes the “Family Matters” theme song even more intriguing. It’s not just a standalone piece; it’s part of a larger tapestry of 90s television music.
But let’s get down to the lyrical nitty-gritty. Both the “Family Matters” and “Full House” theme songs, despite their upbeat melodies, begin with a surprisingly similar sentiment: a lament for a changing world.
“Family Matters” Opening Verse: A Sign of the Times?
“It’s a rare condition, this day and age,
to read any good news on the newspaper page.
Love and tradition of the grand design,
some people say it’s even harder to fiiiind.”
These lines paint a picture of a world where good news is scarce and traditional values are fading. While the original article humorously questions this pessimism, it’s worth considering the context. The early 90s weren’t without their anxieties, and this opening verse might tap into a broader cultural feeling of unease, even within a family sitcom.
“Full House” Opening Verse: Predictability Lost
“Whatever happened to predictability?
The milkman, the paperboy, evening TV.”
Similarly, “Full House” yearns for a lost sense of predictability, referencing now-nostalgic figures like the milkman and paperboy. Both songs, in their own way, establish a need for something stable and comforting amidst perceived societal shifts. And for both shows, the answer, according to Jesse Frederick, lies within the family unit.
This shared starting point reveals a fascinating insight into the thematic concerns of 90s sitcoms. They weren’t just about laughs; they were subtly addressing anxieties about a changing world and offering the family as a comforting anchor.
However, the “Family Matters” theme song takes an interesting lyrical turn in its second verse, hinting at a deeper meaning beyond simple family values.
“Family Matters” Second Verse: Walls and Dreams
“Well then there must be some magic clue inside these tearful walls
‘Cause all I see is a tower of dreams
real love burstin’ out of every seam.”
The original article playfully interprets “tearful walls” as a reference to Robert Frost’s “Mending Wall,” suggesting a conflict between family unity and individual boundaries. Whether intentional or not, this line adds a layer of complexity to the theme song. It’s not just about simple, happy families; it acknowledges potential challenges and “tearful walls” within those structures. Yet, it ultimately emphasizes the positive – a “tower of dreams” and “real love.”
While the humorously Freudian interpretation in the original article might be a stretch, it highlights the song’s evocative language. “Tower of dreams” and “love bursting out of every seam” are powerful images that contribute to the theme song’s lasting impact.
In conclusion, the “Family Matters” theme song is more than just a catchy intro to a beloved sitcom. It’s a piece of 90s pop culture that reflects broader societal themes of change and the enduring importance of family. Penned by the same composer as other iconic TGIF themes, it shares a common DNA with “Full House” while also carving out its own unique lyrical space. So, the next time you hear that familiar tune, remember it’s not just nostalgia; it’s a little piece of 90s cultural history, packed into a catchy and surprisingly thoughtful theme song.
