Theme Songs Played by the Bands Who Made Them Famous (or simply Theme Songs) is a various artists album of phonograph records released in 1948 by RCA Victor.
The back cover reads: "RCA Victor presents the signature songs of eight great popular bands."
Release The album was originally issued by RCA Victor as a set of four 78-rpm phonograph records (cat. no. P-217).
Later, the album was made available on 45 rpm (cat. no. WP-217) and 33⅓ rpm (cat. no. EPB 3007).
Critical reception
Steinway Review of Permanent Music gave a favorable review, writing: "Having a party and want big-name bands to entertain your guests? Then be sure to hear the signature tunes of Tommy Dorsey, Tex Beneke, Vaughn Monroe, Freddy Martin, Sammy Kaye, and others in RCA Victor P-217, Theme Songs."
American Record Guide assessed the album as a "sure-fire hit" and continued: "These are pi[e]ces by which the orchestras introduce themselves on the air. They became signature tunes because they were a notch or two higher than their usual fare and more than a shade better as arrangements. Unreservedly recommended."
Chart performance The album reached No. 1 on Billboards Best-Selling Popular Record Albums chart.
Track listing Set of four records (RCA Victor P-217) – listed on Billboard charts as PT-17
Charts Chart (1948) Peakposition US Billboard Best-Selling Popular Record Albums 1
See also List of Billboard Best-Selling Popular Record Albums number ones of 1948
References