Theme from S.W.A.T. - Rhythm Heritage (1975-76) 12/26/21

The original version of the TV series, "S.W.A.T." ran for just 37 episodes in 1975-76, but it's theme song became a "Great Instrumental of the '70s" and one of the very few TV themes to hit #1 on Billboard's Hot 100."

"S.W.A.T." stands for "Special Weapons and Tactics," which, on the show, was the name of an elite rapid response team in an unnamed California city. (Actually there were--and are--real S.W.A.T. teams in many American cities.) The series starred Steve Forrest and Robert Urich.

Barry DeVorzon wrote the theme (He also wrote songs like "Nadia's Theme" and "Bless the Beasts and the Children"), and recorded the theme with his orchestra for use on the show.

In late 1975, the funk group Rhythm Heritage released THEIR version--and in short order, it "shot its way up" to #1 on Billboard's Hot 100 and Adult Contemporary charts. It also hit #1 on Canada's Top 40,

In effect, the song was a far bigger hit than the original TV series. (Note: A "S.W.A.T." reboot is currently running on CBS.)

The "Theme from S.W.A.T." by Rhythm Heritage: a "Great Instrumental of the '70s!"

Barry DeVorzon (original version):