Hey there, pop culture enthusiasts! Ever found yourself humming a catchy tune and suddenly realizing it's the theme song from a classic TV show? Well, today we're diving deep into the iconic theme song from Married with Children. This show, known for its edgy humor and relatable family struggles, wouldn't be the same without its unforgettable opening. Let's explore the lyrics, the history, and why it remains so beloved.

"Love and Marriage" - The Anthem of the Bundys

The Married with Children theme song, titled "Love and Marriage," is a masterful piece of songwriting originally performed by the legendary Frank Sinatra. Yes, Ol' Blue Eyes himself! The song was penned by Sammy Cahn and Jimmy Van Heusen back in 1955 and quickly became a hit. However, its use in Married with Children gave it a whole new life, transforming it from a romantic ballad into an ironic anthem for the hilariously dysfunctional Bundy family. The genius of using this particular song lies in the stark contrast between the idealized version of love and marriage portrayed in the lyrics and the often-chaotic reality depicted in the show. This juxtaposition is what makes the theme song so memorable and effective.

The Lyrics That Define a Generation

So, what exactly are the lyrics that made this song so perfect for Married with Children? Let's break them down:

• "Love and marriage, love and marriage, Go together like a horse and carriage."

This opening line sets the stage with a classic, almost fairytale-like image of love and marriage. It evokes a sense of tradition and stability, something the Bundy household is anything but. The phrase "horse and carriage" is a timeless symbol of partnership and forward movement, suggesting a smooth and harmonious journey through life together. However, as viewers of the show know, the Bundy's journey is anything but smooth.

• "This I tell you, brother, You can't have one without the other."

This line reinforces the idea that love and marriage are inseparable, two halves of the same whole. It's a declaration of commitment and the belief that one cannot exist without the other. In the context of Married with Children, this line is dripping with irony. Al and Peggy Bundy's relationship is often portrayed as a battle of wills, with both partners seemingly more annoyed than in love. Yet, they are undeniably bound together, highlighting the complexities and contradictions of long-term relationships.

• *"Love and marriage, love and marriage, It's an institute you can't disparage."

Here, the song elevates marriage to the level of an institution, something to be respected and upheld. The word "disparage" means to speak of something negatively or to belittle it. The song suggests that marriage is beyond criticism, a cornerstone of society. Again, the irony is palpable. Married with Children made its name by fearlessly lampooning traditional family values and exposing the absurdities of suburban life. The show reveled in depicting the everyday struggles and frustrations of married life, often presenting a far from flattering picture of the institution.

• *"Ask the local gentry, And they will say it's elementary."

This line adds a touch of sophistication and reinforces the idea that the importance of marriage is universally understood. The "local gentry" represents the established, well-to-do members of society, implying that even the most refined individuals recognize the fundamental role of marriage. In the world of Married with Children, the Bundys are far from gentry. They are a working-class family struggling to make ends meet, constantly battling financial woes and social faux pas. This contrast further emphasizes the show's satirical take on the idealized image of marriage.

• *"Try to stop it if you can, *Love and marriage, love and marriage, It's an inevitable plan."

These lines suggest that love and marriage are forces of nature, unstoppable and unavoidable. The phrase "inevitable plan" implies a sense of destiny, as if marriage is preordained for everyone. The humor lies in the fact that, despite all the hardships and challenges depicted in the show, Al and Peggy remain married. They are stuck together, for better or for worse, proving the song's point in a twisted, comical way.

• "Try to stop it if you can...". This final line is simple but summarizes the song. Try to stop love and marriage if you can.

Why It Works So Well

The brilliance of using "Love and Marriage" as the Married with Children theme song lies in its ironic juxtaposition. The song presents an idealized view of marriage, while the show portrays a much more realistic, and often cynical, perspective. This contrast creates a humorous tension that perfectly captures the show's tone. The theme song sets the stage for the comedic chaos that ensues in each episode, preparing the audience for a dose of relatable, yet over-the-top, family dysfunction.

The Show's Impact and Legacy

Married with Children premiered in 1987 and ran for 11 seasons, becoming one of the longest-running sitcoms in television history. It broke ground with its irreverent humor and willingness to tackle taboo subjects, paving the way for future shows like The Simpsons and Family Guy. The show's characters, especially Al and Peggy Bundy, became cultural icons, representing a relatable, albeit exaggerated, version of the American family. Married with Children challenged traditional sitcom tropes and offered a more honest and unflinching portrayal of suburban life. The show's success can be attributed to its sharp writing, memorable characters, and its ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level.

Breaking the Mold of the Perfect Family

Before Married with Children, sitcoms typically presented idealized versions of family life. Shows like The Cosby Show and Family Ties portrayed families who were loving, supportive, and generally well-adjusted. Married with Children flipped this script, presenting a family that was dysfunctional, argumentative, and often downright miserable. The Bundys were not afraid to be honest about their struggles, their frustrations, and their shortcomings. This honesty resonated with viewers who were tired of seeing unrealistic portrayals of family life on television.

The Enduring Appeal of the Bundys

Despite their many flaws, the Bundys remain beloved by audiences around the world. Their relatability lies in their honesty and their willingness to embrace their imperfections. They are a family that is not afraid to be themselves, even if that means being loud, obnoxious, and completely inappropriate. The Bundys remind us that it's okay to be imperfect, that it's okay to struggle, and that it's okay to laugh at the absurdities of life. They are a reminder that family is not always perfect, but it is always important.

Other Notable Theme Songs from the Era

While "Love and Marriage" is undeniably iconic, the late 80s and early 90s were a golden age for sitcom theme songs. Here are a few other memorable tunes that defined the era:

• The Golden Girls - "Thank You for Being a Friend" by Cynthia Fee: This heartwarming ballad perfectly captured the spirit of friendship and camaraderie that defined the show. It became an anthem for female empowerment and a celebration of the bonds between women.

• Full House - "Everywhere You Look" by Jesse Frederick: This upbeat and optimistic tune reflected the show's wholesome and family-friendly tone. It evoked a sense of warmth and belonging, inviting viewers into the Tanner family's loving home.

• Friends - "I'll Be There for You" by The Rembrandts: This catchy and infectious song became a cultural phenomenon, perfectly capturing the spirit of friendship and support that defined the show. It remains one of the most recognizable and beloved theme songs of all time.

• The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air - The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Theme Song by Will Smith: This rap anthem told the story of Will's journey from West Philadelphia to Bel-Air, setting the stage for the show's fish-out-of-water comedy. It was a bold and innovative theme song that reflected the show's unique blend of humor and social commentary.

Conclusion: A Theme Song That Endures

In conclusion, the Married with Children theme song, "Love and Marriage," is more than just a catchy tune. It's a masterful piece of ironic commentary that perfectly complements the show's edgy humor and relatable characters. By juxtaposing the idealized version of marriage presented in the lyrics with the often-chaotic reality depicted on screen, the song creates a humorous tension that resonates with audiences even today. The show's enduring legacy is a testament to its sharp writing, memorable characters, and its willingness to challenge traditional sitcom tropes. So, the next time you hear "Love and Marriage," remember the Bundys and their hilariously dysfunctional family life. It's a reminder that laughter can be found even in the most imperfect of situations.