### Simple Plan Reflects on Their Iconic Role in ‘Scooby-Doo’ Legacy
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In the early 2000s, Canadian pop-punk band Simple Plan recorded the catchy theme song for the animated series, *What’s New, Scooby-Doo?* The song, which became synonymous with the show since its debut in September 2002, was created during a pivotal moment for the band as they were launching their first album, *No Pads, No Helmets…Just Balls,* which had been released a few months earlier.
Lead singer Pierre Bouvier, now 47, recalls that the band was still new to the music scene when they were approached to record the theme. At that stage of their careers, they were looking to establish their identity, which made the prospect of taking on a TV theme song a daunting one. “At the time we were a little hesitant because we hadn’t really created a reputation for ourselves yet,” Bouvier explained in a recent interview. “We hadn’t had any success at that point, and we didn’t want these types of things to define who we were.”
Despite these reservations, the band recognised the opportunity that the theme song presented. Bouvier noted, “As long as we stay true to who we are and as long as it sounds like who we are, it’s never a bad thing to be out there.” The members of Simple Plan, including drummer Chuck Comeau, guitarist Sébastian LeFebvre, and Jeff Stinco, were tasked with revamping a previously existing song. They infused it with their signature pop-punk sound, speeding up the tempo, altering chords, and adding instrumentation. Bouvier described the process as “fun” and “pretty easy,” highlighting the band’s excitement in making the song their own.
In the years following the song’s release, Simple Plan chose not to heavily promote their connection to the *Scooby-Doo* theme. While the tune gained traction and played on screens worldwide, the band maintained a low profile regarding their involvement. “It took 15, 20 years for us to really be like, ‘Oh, by the way, that’s us,’” Bouvier said, reflecting on the gradual shift in the band’s attitude. They opted instead to carve out their own identity in the music world, separate from the cartoon.
Recently, however, the song has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity, with fans actively embracing Simple Plan’s unique connection to the beloved animated series. During live performances, fans often show up sporting Scooby-Doo costumes, and many are invited onstage to dance while the band performs the theme. Bouvier mentioned how this trend began with their tour manager dressing up as Scooby-Doo, ultimately leading to the inclusion of fans in the fun.
“Everyone just kind of realised the impact of what the song had on this generation of people watching *What’s New, Scooby-Doo,*” he commented. The band now plays the song as a staple in their concerts, which has added an extra level of excitement and engagement at their shows.
In the summer of 2023, Simple Plan expanded their collaboration with Warner Bros. and the *Scooby-Doo* franchise, creating new experiences and merchandise for fans. Initiatives included interactive fan activations during their shows across the U.S., fostering a growing connection between the band and the franchise. As the autumn season approaches, Simple Plan is participating in “Scoobtober,” a promotional event offering three lucky fans a chance to win a trip to see the band perform at the Vans Warped Tour in Orlando.
Bouvier shared his enthusiasm about embracing their connection with *Scooby-Doo,* stating, “We’ve really started leaning into the Scooby-Doo thing. Now that we’ve had long careers and we have fans all around the world, it is a fun song to play.” With their journey from hesitant newcomers to celebrated performers, Simple Plan’s partnership with the franchise now feels like an integral part of their identity, allowing them to celebrate both the music they make and the joy it brings to their fans.
As they continue to cultivate this relationship, Simple Plan looks forward to more adventures and opportunities that the *Scooby-Doo* legacy can bring, solidifying their place in the memories of an entire generation of fans.