The original theme song of the English language dub of the Pokémon anime series, sung by Jason Paige. It was used in 82 episodes of the series, making it the dub version’s most frequently occurring opening theme.
The song is enduringly popular, inspiring 90s nostalgia and dank memes essentially since its release. The entire song is written in common meter—a rhythm alternating between 4-iamb and 3-iamb lines, which is, you guessed it, very common, particularly in popular music. This greatly contributes to its meme-ability, as you can sing many other songs using its melody, and dub the track into many other similarly metered music videos.
Lyrics:
I wanna be the very best
Like no one ever was
To catch them is my real test
To train them is my cause
I will travel across the land
Searching far and wide
Teach Pokémon to understand
The power that's inside
[Chorus]
(Pokémon, gotta catch 'em all) It's you and me
I know it's my destiny
(Pokémon) Oh, you're my best friend
In a world we must defend
(Pokémon, gotta catch 'em all) A heart so true
Our courage will pull us through
You teach me and I'll teach you
Pokémon! (Gotta catch 'em all) Gotta catch 'em all
[Verse 2]
Every challenge along the way
With courage I will face
I will battle every day
To claim my rightful place
Come with me, the time is right
There's no better team
Arm in arm we'll win the fight
It's always been our dream
[Chorus]
(Pokémon, gotta catch 'em all) It's you and me
I know it's my destiny
(Pokémon) Oh, you're my best friend
In a world we must defend
(Pokémon, gotta catch 'em all) A heart so true
Our courage will pull us through
[Bridge]
Gotta catch 'em all
Gotta catch 'em all
Gotta catch 'em all
Yeah!
[Chorus]
(Pokémon, gotta catch 'em all) It's you and me
I know it's my destiny
(Pokémon) Oh, you're my best friend
In a world we must defend
(Pokémon, gotta catch 'em all) A heart so true
Our courage will pull us through
(Pokémon!)
Pokémon Theme Song
