Cheers decadent old-money WASPs," but, to meet producers' demands, they rewrote the lyrics to be about "likeable losers" in a Boston bar. The show's producers rejected this song, as well. After they read the script of the series pilot, they created another song "Another Day". When Portnoy and Hart Angelo heard that NBC had commissioned thirteen episodes, they created an official theme song "Where Everybody Knows Your Name" and rewrote the lyrics. On syndicated airings of "Cheers", the theme song was shortened to make room for commercials. "Cheers" was critically acclaimed in its first season, though it landed a disappointing 74th
Jerry Portnoy released an instructional package, "Jerry Portnoy's Blues Harmonica Masterclass", in 1997. In 2001, he released his second solo album, "Down in the Mood Room". Known for his dark, amplified tone, he has long been a favorite of both critics and peers. "The New York Times" (1987) said, "Mr. Portnoy crests like an alto saxophone." "Down Beat Magazine" (2002) said, "Portnoy has few equals as a harmonica player, blues or otherwise." Rick Estrin, a leading professional player as well, was quoted in "Blues Revue" (2002) as saying, "He can get so much sound out of that harp—such a beautiful, just enormous,