Overview
Norman Lear and Bud Yorkin were developing an Americanized version of the British sitcom Steptoe and Son , and Yorkin approached Jones to compose the theme for the new show. [1] Although initially incredulous that comedian Redd Foxx (whom Jones had known for a number of years and had a reputation for "blue" comedy) was to star in a television show, Jones was able to draw on his familiarity with Foxx, composing the instrumental theme in about 20 minutes and recording it in about the same amount of time. [1] [2]
"The Streetbeater" was first released by A&M Records on Jones's 1973 album You've Got It Bad Girl and as a single from that album. [3] [4] It is also featured on his Greatest Hits album.
Although the piece itself did not reach Billboard status for that year, it has maintained mainstream popularity, ranking 9th in a Rolling Stone Reader Poll of Television Theme Songs. [5]
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