Who here believes that the Doctor Who theme is one of the greatest musical landmarks of the past century? If not, then you're wrong -- it is widely accepted as having changed the electronic music world forever.
Here is a complete inventory of all the official Doctor Who themes ever used on the BBC television series.
1963: The Original Theme by Delia Derbyshire
The BBC had just gotten underway making their new science fiction series called Doctor Who when the job of composing the theme, written by Ron Grainer, landed at Delia Derbyshire's feet. Derbyshire was one of the leading electronic music experts in the entire Radiophonic Workshop. Without the aid of synthesizers, and with an extremely painstaking effort, she was able to literally cut together different sounds, devoting weeks to creating the magnificent composition you can hear above.
1967: The First Major Revision by Delia Derbyshire
The production team behind Doctor Who decided that the theme needed a bit more kick to it, so Delia Derbyshire once again set to work making a newer updated version of the theme. The only notable differences are that a slight delay/echo effect was applied to make each bass note a bit sharper and longer, and the melody line a bit clearer. Additionally, some rising spangles were added just to complete the effort.
1970: The Delaware Theme by Delia Derbyshire and Brian Hodgson
Synthesizers were still relatively new, but the BBC Radiophonic Workshop got their hands on one of the earliest ones -- nicknamed a Delaware synthesizer. This theme was the first major attempt at a remake of the Doctor Who theme. Ultimately, it failed, and the BBC returned to the 1967 version, with little to no alteration, for the next ten years.
1980: The First Reimagining of the Doctor Who Theme by Peter Howell
In 1980, the producer John Nathan-Turner decided to change everything about the show. One of these things was the theme. He ordered that Peter Howell remake the signature theme tune. He was apprehensive at first, worrying he would not be able to live up to Delia Derbyshire's version, but said that he would as long as he was allowed to use any piece of equipment in the entire Radiophonic Workshop. Ultimately, this theme was a success, and was used for the next six years.
1986: The Trial of a Time Lord Theme by Dominic Glynn
Now, John Nathan-Turner decided that he would go outside the BBC to make the theme for Doctor Who. He hired freelance artist Dominic Glynn to remake the tune, this time using an out-of-the-box synthesizer. I am told that this theme is not regarded with much success by many Doctor Who fans, but I strongly disagree -- this theme brought back a sense of haunting mystery to the Doctor Who theme that was lacking in the Howell version. I'm very happy with the job Dominic Glynn did here.
1987: The Definitive 1980's Theme by Keff McCulloch
I call it that because it embodies the 80's in one theme. Therefore, it sucks. Sorry to say it, but there it is. Tonedeaf Keff's theme sucks, composed on a synthesizer with no ear for music. Listen for yourself, just to entertain yourself based on how bad it is. (Okay, it's not painful to listen to, but it is pretty much a joke. Have a listen.)
1996: The TV Movie Theme by John Debney
In 1996, Doctor Who returned to the small screen in an American-made TV movie starring Paul McGann as the Doctor. Movie music composer John Debney had his turn at making a version of the Doctor Who theme. Opting for an entirely orchestral theme, this is an interesting if somewhat different take on the Doctor Who theme. A good listen overall.
2005: A New Theme for a New Show by Murray Gold
Russell T. Davies was hired to bring the science fiction favorite of millions back to our screens for good this time. Murray Gold was hired to remake the signature theme tune. He decided to go back to basics and use many of the classic Derbyshire elements, such as the bassline and melody. Another success, I'd say, with added orchestral elements like strings and drums. Great for listening.
What else do you need to know about the Doctor Who theme? Only that all the great remixes of the theme can be found here:
Mutagene's Whomix Site
Enjoy the wonderful world(s) of the Doctor Who theme!