Why Was the Dawson’s Creek Theme Song Changed? Understanding the Licensing Issues
The Dawson’s Creek theme song, “I Don’t Want to Wait” by Paula Cole, notably eluded streaming platforms for many years.
Dawson’s Creek aired from 1998 to 2003, featuring James Van Der Beek, Katie Holmes, Joshua Jackson, and Michelle Williams in this cherished coming-of-age drama. While Cole’s “I Don’t Want to Wait” was the signature tune for live broadcasts, it was missing during syndication on streaming services — until a significant deal in 2021 brought it back.
Keep reading to discover the reasons behind the Dawson’s Creek theme song change:
What Is the ‘Dawson’s Creek’ Theme Song?
Paula Cole composed and released “I Don’t Want to Wait” in 1996, serving as the opening track for Dawson’s Creek.
“I don’t want to wait for our lives to be over,” she echoes in the chorus. “I want to know right now what will it be / I don’t want to wait for our lives to be over / Will it be yes or will it be sorry?”
Cole later re-recorded “I Don’t Want to Wait” in 2015.
‘I Don’t Want to Wait’ Is Excluded From Streaming Platforms
When Dawson’s Creek was picked up by streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu, the theme song was not part of the episodes. Additionally, it was absent from the DVD releases of the series.
Instead, Arden’s “Run Like Mad” assumed the role of theme song as it was already owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment.
‘I Don’t Want to Wait’ Is Added to Netflix
In 2021, fans erupted on social media upon discovering that “I Don’t Want to Wait” was finally included with each episode.
“Dawson’s Creek fans, I’m excited to share that — at long last — you will hear Paula Cole’s iconic song ‘I Don’t Want to Wait’ during the opening credits!” Netflix tweeted in September 2021.
Deadline reported that Cole reached a deal to permit the use of her song on streaming platforms. Initially, Sony Pictures had only acquired the on-air rights to the track.
What Paula Cole Has Said About the Licensing Battle
“It was really just a financial decision that was made quickly by a single executive at Sony,” Paula Cole told The Independent in January 2021. “If you proceed this way with a network and major companies, you’re putting every artist at risk.”
Why Did Paula Cole Re-Negotiate the Terms?
Paula Cole mentioned to The Independent that the decision was largely influenced by the loyal Dawson’s Creek fans.
“The main reason behind it all was the fans’ reaction,” she stated in 2021. “It was thanks to their posts, tweets, and amazing feedback that finally caught Sony’s attention. They wanted to please their audience, and I’m genuinely delighted about that. I’m thrilled they care enough to listen.”
She added, “I’m very pleased that fans received what they sought and that my music will gain more recognition again. I truly appreciate this opportunity.”
