who sings the theme song for the tv show in the heat of the night

That theme song is a total classic, isn't it? It was performed by Bill Champlin. I remember catching reruns of that show late at night after my shift ends, and that opening tune really sets the mood perfectly. It's got that soulful vibe that sticks in your head for hours after you hear it.

If I recall correctly, Bill Champlin actually worked on it with Delaney Bramlett. It's one of those tracks that just defines the whole era of that show. Whenever I hear those first few notes, I instantly think of the small-town mystery atmosphere they built up. Definitely a great choice for the series.