Classic TV Theme: Valerie etc (Stereo)

The etc above represents the various name changes this series underwent. Originally the 1986 sitcom was about Valerie and her family. It changed when Valerie Harper couldn't come to financial agreement with producers. As a result, in season three it became 'Valerie's Family' with Sandy Duncan added to the cast. It was explained that Valerie had suddenly died (which opened the door for a 'very special episode'). Eventually the show title would change again to 'The Hogan Family'. For the final season it switched from NBC to CBS, where it did not prosper. Amidst all the changes the theme stayed the same: 'Together Through the Years' sung by Roberta Flack (composers: Charles Fox, Stephen Geyer). Three opens representing the three titles and a few cast changes, plus the closing credits (visuals fan-made).

[Boygonebad]

Back when shows had awesome theme songs

[jenmarks]

The theme song makes me sad, it reminds me of how life was so carefree and fun in the 80's.

[Orcl]

Valerie Harper had filmed a 3rd season episode before she was unjustly fired. It was used in the lawsuit against the producers. She ended up making more for the third season. And when the show went into syndication she got paid for all six seasons.

[thar]

Thus, I just sent chills down my spine. I miss all of the 1980's.

[supesII]

There’s something quite melancholy about this theme song. I like it.

[jgweems]

This family had more fun in these 4 1/2 minutes than I had with my family during my whole life. ;)

[roysanders]

I love all of the theme song versions and I also love Roberta Flack and the way she sung them. She did a great job and I have to say the sitcom did a great job on both NBC and CBS (1986-91)!!!

[roblou]

This is arguably the best 80s theme songs, and there are just so many to choose. I loved this show too! Thank you for posting!

[AldenRDavis]

From “Valerie, ” to “Valerie’s Family: The Hogans” to “The Hogan Family.” I love this show. I wish it was out on DVD and aired on both NETFLIX and Roku.

[BetheasByteRELOADED]

I'm just glad the theme song didn't change. It's perfect for this show.

[robwalton]

I grew up watching The Hogan Family, one of my favorite shows as a kid. And what a great theme song - arguably one of the best show theme songs from the 80s. Personally, I think Edie McClurg as Mrs. Poole, the nosy neighbor, made that show - she was downright hilarious!

[tonyjones]

I just love these theme songs they bring back so many memories 👍

[zekeigtos]

I was very much a bookworm in the 1980s and recall to this day how this series massively portrayed sports as "normal" and academic studying as "nerd" like behavior. I guess I can't blame them, it was the sign of the times. However, notice in every one of the opening credits, there is a scene of one of the more athletic boys getting adoration and praise and the school work either a joke or performed alone.

[TinaLouise]

This American tv sitcom was the only show I wud rush home from school from in the 80s to watch on tv in the uk at 3.30pm!!!

[jesahnorrin]

I absolutely loved this show. I wish it was streaming somewhere.

[jetjax]

Literally my childhood in one song. Gawd I miss those days😊

[MERCEEME]

This show reminds me of home growing up in the 80s. I loved both sets of shows. Rest in Peace Valerie Harper.

[kathiec]

The producer, Judy Pioli, was Terri Buttafuoco on Laverne and Shirley, she also worked behind the scenes on that show.

[jejepalmer]

Life is such a sweet insanity
The more you learn, the less you know
In the heart of every family
There's a love that starts by letting go

Step by step and day by day
Reaching out along the way
Hand in hand, we face our fears
Together through the years

We get closer, through happiness and tears
And in our hearts we share
The laughter and the sadness
A special kind of madness
Together through the years

Life is such a sweet insanity
It's nice to know your friends are near
In the heart of every family
There's a love that's waiting there for you
Through the years

[kcsnipes]

I just randomly come back to this song from time to time it’s so good and just grips me pulling me back to the past 😢