Action Theme Song Archive

Hawaii Five O Theme Song

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Song TitleHawaii Five-O Theme
ComposerMorton Stevens
Famous PerformersThe Ventures
Original Series PremiereSeptember 20, 1968
Reboot Series FinaleApril 3, 2020
Total Episodes (Reboot)240 Episodes (10 Seasons)
GenreSurf Rock / Orchestral

Theme Song Overview

[Instrumental Performance] (Catchy guitar riffs, pulsating drums, and a driving brass section) “Book ’em, Danno!”

Behind the Tune: Meaning & Story

The Hawaii Five-O theme song is a masterclass in television branding. Composed by Morton Stevens in 1968, the track originally accompanied the legendary crime drama starring Jack Lord. Its high-energy mix of orchestral brass and surf-rock percussion became so popular that a cover by The Ventures reached #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1969, solidifying its place in music history.

When the series was rebooted in 2010 by executive producers Peter M. Lenkov, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci, one of the most critical decisions was to retain the original theme. The producers chose to re-record the track with a 35-piece orchestra, including three musicians who had worked on the original 1968 recording, ensuring the “spirit of paradise” remained authentic for a new generation of viewers.

The theme song transcended the screen, becoming a stadium anthem for marching bands and a frequently sampled piece in pop culture. Whether associated with the classic 12-season run or the 2010 reboot that concluded on April 3, 2020, the music captures the pulse of action, the beauty of the Hawaiian islands, and the thrill of the chase. It remains, quite simply, one of the most recognizable pieces of music ever composed for television.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who composed the original Hawaii Five-O theme?
The theme was composed by Morton Stevens, who won two Emmy Awards for his work on the original series.
Did they use the same song for the 2010 reboot?
Yes! The producers felt the theme was too iconic to change. They used a newly recorded version that stayed incredibly faithful to Stevens’ original arrangement.
What is the famous catchphrase associated with the show?
The phrase “Book ’em, Danno,” usually spoken by Steve McGarrett to Danny Williams, became a cultural staple alongside the driving rhythm of the theme song.
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Editorial Note: Production history and musical credits for both the original and reboot versions of Hawaii Five-O have been verified by the ThemeSong.info Editorial Team. We ensure composer data and air dates are accurately cited.