Not long after Schifrin’s removal to Los Angeles, he was asked in 1966 to provide a theme for the new TV spy series, Mission: Impossible. The result was the catchy theme that became a signature for the 1966-73 series, starring Peter Graves. The story behind the theme is that Schifrin picked the Morse code rhythm for the letters, M and I. That is, dash dash, dot dot, generating a 5/4 meter rhythm. The composer later said: “I wanted a little humor, lightness, a theme that wouldn’t take itself too seriously. There’s something unpredictable about 5/4.” Add Schifrin’s long engagement with and mastery of jazz and something with lasting musical appeal was born.
Wm. E. Runyan
©William E. Runyan 2026