Jan Hammer, the maestro behind the iconic Miami Vice theme song, has dropped a new music video that’s pure, unadulterated 80s synth magic. It’s a vibrant reminder of why the Miami Vice theme song remains a timeless instrumental classic and a benchmark for television music. Even decades later, the pulsating rhythm and electrifying melodies of the Miami Vice theme song continue to captivate audiences and transport them straight back to the neon-drenched streets of 1980s Miami.
In this new video, Hammer doesn’t just revisit his legendary Miami Vice theme; he dives headfirst into it, showcasing his virtuosity on the Fairlight CMI synthesizer, the cutting-edge instrument that helped define the sound of the 80s. For synth enthusiasts, it’s a treat to watch Hammer interact with this iconic piece of technology, demonstrating the expressive capabilities he wrung from its digital circuits. The video itself is playfully reminiscent of the era, complete with stylized visuals that echo the show’s signature aesthetic.
The release of this music video is perfectly timed with the digital availability of the Miami Vice soundtrack, allowing fans to easily access the full scope of Hammer’s groundbreaking work for the series. His innovative approach to scoring Miami Vice was revolutionary for television at the time. In a revealing 2014 interview with Rolling Stone, Hammer discussed his creative freedom and his conscious decision to move away from traditional orchestral scores, embracing synthesizers to create a sound that was as dynamic and unconventional as the show itself. He articulated a desire to inject the expressiveness of human voice and instruments like violins and guitars into keyboard melodies through the synthesizer’s flexible controls, effectively discovering his unique voice in electronic music through this very theme song and soundtrack work.
The Miami Vice theme song isn’t just a catchy tune; it’s a cultural phenomenon. It famously topped the Billboard charts, a rare feat for a TV theme, cementing its place in pop culture history. Even today, it stands as a testament to the power of instrumental music to evoke strong emotions and imagery. While contemporary theme songs like those from White Lotus and Succession have garnered attention, the Miami Vice theme retains its crown as the chart-topping king of television themes. For anyone seeking an instant injection of 80s nostalgia, or simply an example of masterful synth composition, Jan Hammer’s Miami Vice theme song remains an essential listen and a vibrant piece of television history.
