The Story Behind the Taxi Theme Song: Bob James’ “Angela”

A Theme Song That Broke the Rules

When people think of TV theme songs from the late 70s and early 80s, they often picture upbeat jingles, laugh-track melodies, or catchy sing-along tunes. But when Taxi premiered in 1978, it flipped the script with something completely different: a slow, reflective jazz piece that felt more like a midnight drive through New York City than a typical sitcom opener.

That song, officially titled “Angela,” was composed by legendary jazz musician Bob James. And while it may not have been what producers first had in mind, it became the soul of the series and one of the most memorable TV themes of all time.

The Original Plan: A Different Song Called “Touchdown”

At first, producers of Taxi wanted something energetic and playful to match the quirky cast of New York cab drivers — played by Danny DeVito, Judd Hirsch, Tony Danza, Christopher Lloyd, and Andy Kaufman.

Bob James delivered a track called “Touchdown,” an upbeat jazz fusion piece filled with horns and funky rhythms. It had energy, but when paired with footage of the characters navigating the gritty, real world of late-70s Manhattan, it felt off. The show wasn’t just about jokes; it was about the daily grind, broken dreams, and the quiet moments in between fares.

Enter “Angela”: The Perfect Fit

James had already written “Angela” for a single episode, naming it after a minor character. But when producers heard it again, they realized it had exactly the mood they were looking for.

“Angela” captured something deeper: the loneliness of the city, the struggle of chasing big dreams, and the humanity of people just trying to get by. Its use of Fender Rhodes electric piano, smooth saxophone, and laid-back groove gave Taxi an emotional weight that few sitcoms dared to attempt.

The result? One of the most unusual — and most beloved — TV theme songs in history.

Why the Taxi Theme Resonates

Unlike typical sitcom themes, “Angela” wasn’t loud or gimmicky. It was thoughtful, moody, and timeless.

• It reflected the atmosphere of New York City — wet streets, glowing cab lights, and the hum of the late-night shift.

• It gave viewers a sense that Taxi wasn’t just comedy; it was about real people with real struggles.

• It stood out musically, so much so that even people who never watched the show recognize the tune today.

Lasting Legacy of Bob James’ Masterpiece

Even decades later, “Angela” lives on. The song is frequently included in smooth jazz and lo-fi playlists. It’s been sampled, covered, and praised as one of the best TV themes ever written.

For fans, hearing those opening notes instantly brings back memories of Louie barking from the dispatcher’s cage, Latka’s unique accent, or Jim’s unforgettable lines. But even outside the context of Taxi, it’s simply a beautiful piece of music that holds up on its own.

Why It Still Matters Today

In an era where TV themes are often cut short or skipped entirely, the Taxi theme remains proof that music can set the tone for storytelling in ways no dialogue can. It’s not just nostalgia — it’s a reminder of how the right song can elevate a series into something unforgettable.

Bob James didn’t just write a TV theme; he gave Taxi its soul.

The next time you hear the Taxi theme, close your eyes and imagine yourself in the back of a yellow cab in late-70s Manhattan. The city feels big, dreams feel out of reach, but for three minutes at a time, the music makes it all feel strangely hopeful.

“Angela” is more than a TV theme. It’s jazz history. It’s television history. And it’s still one of the most emotional, iconic openings in sitcom history.