Some Of The Best TV Show Soundtracks
When we think of movies, we often think of the soundtrack that goes along with it. Oftentimes, the soundtrack is what makes the movie so good. This could include the score of the movie, or a curated soundtrack that was chosen for certain scenes. The music chosen sets the tone of the scene, and adds excitement that could not have been done with silence or dialogue. Many people can think of their favorite movie soundtrack at the top of their head, such as “Pulp Fiction” or “Baby Driver”. What about TV show soundtracks? These soundtracks are not talked about as much, but many of them are just as good as a movie soundtrack. Here are some noteworthy TV show soundtracks that are worth checking out.
Freaks and Geeks
Even though this show came out twenty years ago and only had one season, it still holds a special place in people’s hearts. Viewers are transported back to 1980 to go alongside Lindsay Weir finding her place in high school as either a freak or a geek. She hangs out with freaks Daniel, Nick, and Ken, while listening to rock hits by Van Halen, Styx and Rush. This show is filled with hits from the time, including the iconic theme song “Bad Reputation” by Joan Jett. Other iconic artists featured in this show include, The Who, The Grateful Dead, David Bowie and Queen.
Twin Peaks
This hit show from the early 90s has one of the best musical scores of television history. Director David Lynch asked composer Angelo Badalamenti to compose the soundtrack. Badalamenti created a beautiful, yet eerie soundtrack that is still cherished by fans. From the alluring theme song to the haunting “Laura Palmer’s Theme”, this score takes you to the mysterious town of Twin Peaks as the town looks for the missing homecoming queen, Laura Palmer. The soundtrack also includes a few chilling songs by singer Julee Cruise as the town mystery transforms into something no one would expect.
I Am Not Okay With This
This show is another example of a good show gone too soon. It only has one season, but the few episodes it had made a great impact on fans. The soundtrack is also impactful as it includes a variety of songs from the 60s, 80s, 90s and today. Iconic character, Stanley Barber, plays a few songs by his favorite artists, Bloodwitch and Prefab Sprout, which greatly define his character. Here is a scene where Stanley is getting ready while listening to “The King of Rock ‘N’ Roll” by Prefab Sprout.
Sex Education
“Good morning, Moordale!” This new Netflix series recently released its second season, and fans are already awaiting the third season. Follow along Otis Milburn, an insecure high school student who not only has to deal with sex crazed high school students but also his mother, a sex therapist. The show seems timeless since the viewer cannot tell what time period this show takes place in. The fashion and style are reminiscent of the 80s and 90s, as well as the music that plays in the show. The songs in the show range from “Take On Me” by a-ha, “Make Your Own Kind Of Music” by Cass Elliot and “Rebel Girl” by Bikini Kill. Besides these classic songs, the show’s creators asked artist Ezra Furman to use his original songs and to create songs for the show, and he did so for both seasons. He created songs that fit the show’s style and story. The singer even appeared in the first season’s seventh episode as a lead singer of a band at prom performing the song “Origin of Love”.
Euphoria
When people think of an iconic TV show soundtrack, “Euphoria” comes to mind. It released summer of 2019 and has made a lasting impact on the youth of today. The soundtrack is done by singer-songwriter and composer, Labrinth. The soundtrack even includes an influential song, “All For Us”, which was performed by Labrinth and Zendaya. Each episode includes tracks that reflect the show’s aesthetic and deep storyline. The show includes songs by Megan Thee Stallion, Blood Orange, Billie Eilish and Solange.
My So-Called Life
Another show gone too soon is the 90s cult teen drama starring Claire Danes and Jared Leto. This show was one of the first shows to deal with actual issues that teens were facing at the time such as school violence and homophobia. “My So-Called Life” displays the lives of angsty teenagers who wear flannels and listen to R.E.M.. Other influential artists featured in this show include, The Cranberries, Haddaway and Sonic Youth. Sadly, the show only lasted for one season, but it is still a must watch for those who wish to go back to the 90s.