The Looney Tunes theme song is officially known as "The Merry-Go-Round Broke Down."
This iconic melody, instantly recognizable to generations of fans, serves as the main theme tune for the classic Looney Tunes cartoon series, as well as the reissued Merrie Melodies cartoon series produced by Warner Bros.
The Origins of "The Merry-Go-Round Broke Down"
Composed in 1937, "The Merry-Go-Round Broke Down" was originally a novelty song before gaining enduring fame as the signature tune for one of animation's most beloved franchises. Its simple yet catchy melody perfectly encapsulated the whimsical and often chaotic nature of the cartoons it introduced.
Here are some key details about the theme song:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Song Title | The Merry-Go-Round Broke Down |
| Writers | Cliff Friend and Dave Franklin |
| Year Written | 1937 |
| Publisher | Harms Inc., New York |
| Association | Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies cartoons |
The song's lively tune has become synonymous with the antics of characters like Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, and the entire Warner Bros. animated roster, cementing its place in popular culture. Its upbeat tempo and playful feel made it an ideal fit for the fast-paced, gag-driven cartoons.
