The opening moments of Ted Lasso are instantly recognizable, not just for the warm smile of Jason Sudeikis, but also for its infectiously uplifting theme song. More than just an intro, this tune sets the tone for the entire series, embodying the show’s optimism and heart. But who is behind this now-iconic piece of music, and what makes the Ted Lasso Theme Song so special?
The Masters Behind the Music: Mumford & Howe
The minds behind the Ted Lasso theme song are the talented duo of British musician Marcus Mumford and composer Tom Howe. Securing Mumford, frontman of the globally acclaimed band Mumford & Sons, was a significant win for the show’s creators, particularly Jason Sudeikis. Adding to the personal touch, Sudeikis and Mumford share a close friendship in real life, injecting an extra layer of authenticity and passion into the project. Tom Howe, with his extensive experience in film and television scoring, brought his expertise to craft a theme that is both catchy and emotionally resonant.
| Song: | Ted Lasso Theme Song |
|---|---|
| Composers: | Marcus Mumford & Tom Howe |
| Year released: | 2020 |
The collaboration between Mumford and Howe proved to be a perfect match, resulting in a theme song that perfectly captures the spirit of Ted Lasso. The initial vision, spearheaded by Sudeikis, was to enlist a prominent artist to create a theme that would stand out, even in an era where many viewers are quick to skip intros.
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Image alt text: Jason Sudeikis and Marcus Mumford, the creators of the Ted Lasso theme song, smiling together.
Mumford described the creative process to The Hollywood Reporter, explaining their transatlantic inspiration: “We felt the theme song had to be placed somewhere right in the middle of the Atlantic, between the UK and the US… we listened to a lot of Beatles and Gerry and the Pacemakers, and then also Creedence Clearwater Revival, as references, in saying it should feel somewhere halfway between London and Kansas, where Ted’s from.” This blend of British and American musical influences perfectly mirrors the show’s premise, with an American coach navigating the world of English football.
The version heard in the opening credits is a concise 22-second burst of energy, while a full version extends to 2 minutes and 16 seconds, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the song’s nuances and uplifting message.
Decoding the Lyrics: A Motivational Anthem
The lyrics of the Ted Lasso theme song are deceptively simple yet profoundly impactful. They encapsulate Ted Lasso’s optimistic philosophy and his ability to inspire those around him. Here are the complete lyrics:
Yeah, it might be all that you get
Yeah, I guess this might well be it
If you slow down for a second, take your time
You know I’m yours if you remember that you’re mine
And when everybody’s telling me I have no time
I prove ’em wrong again
Yeah, it might be all that you get
Yeah, I guess this might well be it
But heaven knows I’ve tried
No, my hands won’t be tied down
And I will not lay them down
‘Cause I can finally see the truth
So simple but so clear
Accepting an ocean’s depths were out of reach for me and you
If you’re coming up for air breathing in
You know I’ll be there when you first begin
And when everybody’s telling us we have no time
We’ll prove ’em wrong again
‘Cause, yeah, it might be all that you get
Yeah, I guess this might well be it
But heaven knows I’ve tried
And heaven knows I’ve tried
These lyrics resonate with the core themes of Ted Lasso. They speak to perseverance in the face of adversity (“heaven knows I’ve tried”), the importance of taking your time (“slow down for a second, take your time”), and the power of belief (“we’ll prove ’em wrong again”). The lines also subtly hint at Ted’s personal struggles, including his divorce, with the poignant line: “And when everybody’s telling us we have no time we’ll prove ’em wrong again.” This can be interpreted as Ted’s determination to make his new life in England work, despite personal challenges.
More Than Just a Theme: Critical Acclaim and Soundtrack Highlights
The Ted Lasso theme song has not only captured the hearts of viewers but has also earned critical acclaim. A testament to its quality and impact is its Emmy nomination in 2021 for Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music. This recognition underscores the song’s role in enhancing the viewing experience and solidifying the show’s identity.
Beyond the theme song, Ted Lasso is celebrated for its carefully curated soundtrack, featuring a diverse range of artists and genres. The show’s music supervisors expertly weave songs into the narrative, amplifying emotional moments and adding depth to the characters and storylines. Here’s a glimpse into the eclectic mix of music featured in Ted Lasso:
- Rainbow Chaser – Nirvana
- Wonderwall – Oasis
- Wishin’ and Hopin’ – Dusty Springfield
- Juice – Lizzo
- Jerk It Out – Caesars
- Diamond Dogs – David Bowie
- Fairytale of New York – The Pogues & Kirsty MacColl
- She’s A Rainbow – The Rolling Stones
- Song 2 – Blur
- Dreams – The Cranberries
This diverse soundtrack, combined with the iconic Ted Lasso theme song, contributes significantly to the show’s overall charm and emotional resonance. The music of Ted Lasso, especially its theme, is more than just background noise; it’s an integral part of the show’s identity, embodying its hopeful and heartwarming spirit.
