For fans of the legal drama Suits, the opening bars are instantly recognizable. The driving beat and energetic rhythm of the show’s theme song, “Greenback Boogie,” are as integral to the Suits experience as Harvey Specter’s sharp suits and Mike Ross’s photographic memory. This track isn’t just background music; it’s a statement, perfectly encapsulating the ambition, drive, and high-stakes world of Pearson Specter Litt. As we eagerly anticipate the arrival of Suits LA, let’s delve into what makes the original Suits theme song so iconic and explore the story behind its memorable lyrics.
Unveiling “Greenback Boogie”: The Anthem of Ambition
The theme song that catapults viewers into the fast-paced legal world of Suits is “Greenback Boogie” by Ima Robot. This track, released in 2010, is a bonus from the Los Angeles-based band’s album Another Man’s Treasure. Fronted by Alex Ebert, who later gained further acclaim with Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes, Ima Robot delivered a song that resonated far beyond its initial release, finding its perfect match in the opening sequence of Suits.
The Serendipitous Selection: How “Greenback Boogie” Became the Suits Theme
While many iconic theme songs are custom-made for a show, “Greenback Boogie” was a pre-existing track that was discovered and chosen by Kevin Bray, the director of the Suits pilot episode. Suits creator Aaron Korsh revealed on social media that Bray was instrumental in selecting the song. Apparently, another song was considered, but Bray’s intuition led him to “Greenback Boogie,” a choice that has become a defining aspect of the show’s identity. Korsh himself has expressed his fondness for the song, even sharing lightheartedly about singing along with his daughter despite not knowing all the lyrics perfectly. This anecdote underscores the catchy and infectious nature of the tune, proving its broad appeal.
Diving into the Lyrics: Money, Ambition, and the “Greenback Boogie” Meaning
The lyrics of “Greenback Boogie,” though brief in the Suits opening credits, are surprisingly thematic and relevant to the show’s core themes. They speak directly to the motivations that drive many characters within the Suits universe: ambition, success, and the pursuit of wealth. Here are the lyrics featured in the Suits intro:
See the money wanna stay, for your meal
Get another piece of pie, for your wife
Everybody wanna know, how it feel
Everybody wanna see, what it’s like.
I’ll even eat a bean pie, I don’t mind
Me and Missy is so very busy busy making money.
Alright…
All step back, I’m ’bout to dance
The greenback boogie.
The lyrics emphasize the allure of money (“greenback” being slang for US dollar bills) and the desire to experience the lifestyle that comes with it. Lines like “Everybody wanna know, how it feel / Everybody wanna see, what it’s like” reflect the aspirational element of Suits. Viewers are drawn into a world of high-powered lawyers and luxurious lifestyles, and the theme song immediately sets this tone. The chorus, with its declaration “All step back, I’m ’bout to dance / The greenback boogie,” adds a layer of confidence and swagger, mirroring the personalities of characters like Harvey Specter who navigate their world with self-assuredness and a touch of bravado.
The Enduring Legacy: More Than Just a Theme Song
“Greenback Boogie” has become synonymous with Suits. Fans not only recognize it instantly but actively search for the song and its lyrics, demonstrating its impact and popularity. The theme song has contributed significantly to the show’s branding, creating an energetic and memorable introduction that sets the stage for each episode. Its catchiness has even led to fans creating their own renditions and sharing their appreciation online, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
Suits LA and the Theme Song Question: Will “Greenback Boogie” Return?
As the Suits universe expands with the upcoming Suits LA series, a key question lingers in the minds of fans: will “Greenback Boogie” make a comeback? While there’s no official confirmation yet, the producers are surely aware of the original theme song’s popularity and its strong association with the Suits brand. Whether Suits LA opts for a fresh theme or re-energizes “Greenback Boogie” for a new setting, the legacy of the original Suits theme song remains undeniable.
For now, fans can revisit all nine seasons of Suits and immerse themselves once again in the world of legal drama, driven by the unforgettable rhythm of “Greenback Boogie.” The theme song is more than just an intro; it’s the heartbeat of Suits, encapsulating its energy, ambition, and undeniable appeal. Catch up on all seasons of Suits on Peacock and get ready to see what musical direction Suits LA will take.
