Theme songs and insert songs of American TV dramas
I’ve put together a collection of theme songs and insert songs featured in American TV dramas.
The selection ranges widely, from friendly, catchy pop tunes to tracks that evoke the heat of rock.
Some of these are popular series that are frequently broadcast in Japan with dubbed versions, so be sure to check them out.
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- Popular songs and insert tracks from the Mission: Impossible series
- A catchy tune that sounds familiar
- Popular love song themes from Monday 9 p.m. dramas. Including the theme song from that smash-hit drama.
- Theme Songs of NHK Taiga Dramas Through the Years: The Allure of Music That Colors Historical Stories
Theme and insert songs of American TV dramas (1–10)
Cities and DustJunkie XL

An impressive cover that blends a mysterious, atmospheric sound with elements of electro house.
Inspired by the eruption of the ancient city of Pompeii, the piece expresses grand drama through a modern arrangement, with Lauren Rocket’s vocals heightening the tension.
Released in March 2008 on the album “Booming Back at You,” it reached No.
11 on the Billboard Top Electronic Albums chart.
It was also featured in the popular drama Gossip Girl and the racing game Burnout Paradise, earning widespread acclaim.
Shining in high-tension or energetic scenes, this track is also perfect as background music for driving or workouts.
Mystery Movie ThemeHenry Mancini

“Columbo” is a detective drama set in the Los Angeles Police Department that portrays the exploits of the police officer Columbo, and it is also very well known in Japan.
This piece of music was originally the theme for the broadcast slot “NBC Mystery Movie,” and in Japan it is famous as the “Columbo Theme.”
CaliforniaPhantom Planet

A breezy coming-of-age rock anthem that captures a longing for California and the exhilaration of travel.
Featured on Phantom Planet’s January 2002 album “The Guest,” the song stands out with its catchy melody and memorable piano-led intro.
Chosen as the theme song for the FOX TV drama series “The O.C.,” it became a hit, reaching the top 10 in countries including Austria, Ireland, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
A gentler arrangement was also showcased in 2005 during Season 3 of “The O.C.,” drawing even more attention.
It’s a perfect track for driving, recommended when you want to spark anticipation for new places and a sense of adventure.
Theme songs and insert songs from American TV dramas (11–20)
Who Needs Wings to FlySally Field

The Flying Nun is a situational comedy set in a convent on the island of Puerto Rico, depicting the adventures of Sister Bertrille, who can fly.
The theme song is Who Needs Wings to Fly, sung by Sally Field.
Who Are You?The Who

CSI: Crime Scene Investigation is a television drama set in Las Vegas that depicts the work of a forensic science team, and it ran through Season 15.
The theme song is “Who Are You,” a single released by The Who in 1978, and one of the band’s members, Roger Daltrey, also appeared on the show.
Labels Or LoveFergie

The theme song that colors the film adaptation of the globally acclaimed drama Sex and the City is a work that showcases Fergie’s appeal to the fullest.
Set to a poppy, rhythmic melody, the song passionately celebrates luxury brands and romance, vividly capturing the feelings of women living in the city.
Released in May 2008, the track reached No.
15 on Australia’s ARIA Singles Chart.
It opens the film and superbly conveys the movie’s worldview.
It was also chosen as the opening theme for the Korean TV program Let Me In, earning international recognition.
It’s the perfect track for those who admire an urban lifestyle or seek a refined, sophisticated vibe.
God’s Gonna Cut You DownJohnny Cash

One of Johnny Cash’s signature songs, which left a profound mark on American music history, is a piece that reconstructs a traditional American folk song through his unique interpretation.
Included on the fifth installment of the American Recordings series, the album “American V: A Hundred Highways,” it was released posthumously in 2006.
The track is characterized by a minimalist arrangement and his deep baritone voice, with handclaps, footsteps, and simple acoustic guitar accompaniment creating a solemn atmosphere.
Featured in numerous works, including the TV dramas Gotham and The Blacklist, this weighty song—centered on themes of judgment and redemption—resonates powerfully in tense scenes.


