In the 1980s, every movie that aired on HBO began with a truly epic theme song—a sweeping orchestral piece that triggers instant nostalgia for anyone who grew up with it. Then in the 90s, HBO introduced a 5-second audio logo for their original content. Today, we associate that sound with some of the most groundbreaking TV shows of all time. In this episode, we reveal the story behind the creation of these two iconic sounds. Featuring composer Ferdinand Jay Smith and former HBO Executive Vice President Bruce Richmond.

Follow the show on Twitter, Facebook, & Reddit.

Subscribe to our Youtube channel here.

Become a monthly contributor at 20k.org/donate.

If you know what this week's mystery sound is, tell us at mystery.20k.org.

Get 10% off your first month of BetterHelp at betterhelp.com/20k.

Visit zocdoc.com/hertz to download the Zocdoc app and sign up for free.

Check out SONOS at sonos.com.

Episode transcript, music, and credits can be found here: https://www.20k.org/episodes/itsnottvitshbo

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices