The best TV soundtracks of all time 553620

A good soundtrack can be as memorable as the story itself, especially when both elements complement each other. Stranger Things, with classics from the 1980s to Skins With the biggest hits of the 2000s, check out the complete list of the best series soundtracks of all time! 694n

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The soundtrack of Atlanta, series created by D, is a true masterpiece that reflects the essence of the city and the versatility of its music. With tracks by Glover himself, under the artistic name C, and local artists such as Rich the kid, Juiceman's OJ, Young Thug and the famous OutKast, the production goes beyond hip-hop, incorporating sounds from funkadelic e Sam Cooke, and even retro hits from Said. 

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Beef, from Netflix, is considered one of the productions with the best series soundtracks, being praised for its selection of nostalgic rock and pop hits from the 1990s mixed with songs from the early 2000s, which fit perfectly with the intense tone of the narrative. 

Under the musical supervision of Tiffany Anders and with the collaboration of the showrunner Lee Sung Jin, the selection of bands, such as Built to Spill e My Bloody Valentine, was made with great care to create an emotionally charged atmosphere and ground the story and characters. Furthermore, instead of opting for predictable classics of the time, the series stands out by rescuing music from less represented bands, such as Bush, Hoobastank e Grant Lee Buffalo, creating unexpectedly impactful musical moments. 

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Created by David E Kelley, the soundtrack of this series has become legendary since its premiere in 2017, not only for the quality of the songs, but also for the way the songs amplified the emotions of the characters. The music Cold Little Heart, Michael kiwanuka, which accompanies the opening, already makes it clear that the series is a full plate for lovers of good music. The soundtrack curation stands out for the presence of big names such as Leon Bridges, Said, Charles Bradley, Elvis, Otis Redding e Frank Ocean.

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In addition to being one of best series of all time, Breaking Bad. has a high quality soundtrack. From the music Windy, from The Association, playing from an everyday scene to the classic baby Blue, from Badfinger, which plays out in the dramatic series finale as the police close in on Walter White, each musical choice is carefully thought out to reflect the unique tone of the series. The production also stands out for the inclusion of current songs, such as those by The Walkmen e Alex Ebert, which create the perfect atmosphere for striking scenes, such as the pool party that culminates in a gas poisoning. 

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Bridgerton, is on the list of series with the best soundtrack, as it stands out for its creativity in mixing pop music classics with the 19th century Regency universe. Contemporary pop hits such as Bad Guy da Billie Eilish e Thank you, Next da Ariana Grande, are reinterpreted by a string quartet, bringing an elegant and immersive sound that fits perfectly into the aristocratic setting of the series

Black Mirror: San Junipero 66656

The episode's soundtrack San Junipero, from the series Black Mirror, works the melancholic atmosphere through the combination of orchestral synthesizers with a list full of pop songs from the 1980s. Signed by Clint mansell, the soundtrack includes tracks like Heaven is a Place on Earth, Belinda carlisle, and Heart and Soul, T'Pau, bringing to life the impossible love story of San Junipero and creating the perfect setting for a tale of love that transcends time and technology.

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With one of the best series soundtracks of all time, Dark categorically delivers the intriguing and disturbing atmosphere of the complex time travel narrative. Composed mainly by Pageantry, the soundtrack's theme song features dense ambient sounds, unsettling melodies and a strong presence of synthesizers, creating a sense of constant tension and an ominous tone. In addition to the original compositions, the series stands out for its selection of licensed music, with tracks from artists such as Agnes Obel, Peter Gabriell, Soap&Skin e Tears For Fears.

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The soundtrack of Dickinson is a fascinating contrast to the series' 19th century setting, providing a vibrant, modern sound experience that reflects the irreverent spirit of Emily DickinsonHailee Steinfeld. With tracks from contemporary artists such as Lizzo, Billie Eilish and Mitski, added to the original soundtrack, the series mixes genres in a bold way, creating a unique atmosphere that makes the past more accessible.

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The series goes beyond the expectations of a typical TikTok and hyperpop playlist, incorporating classics from the 1970s and 1980s, such as Steely Dan, Sinead o'connor, Hall & Oates e Judy Garland, And hits latest from artists like Billie Eilish, Orville Peck e Lorde Labrinth, the composer of the original soundtrack, stands out with tracks such as All for Us, featuring the voice of Zendaya, and I'm Tired, both becoming huge hits. 

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Composed by Jeff Russo for the first season, the soundtrack was able to evoke the icy atmosphere and dark mood of the original 1996 film, by creating distinct musical motifs for each character, with the precise use of instruments such as strings in pinched (technique of playing stringed instruments with the fingers), woodwinds and sleigh bells. 

Another example is the second season, which is set in 1979. The music curation done by showrunner Noah Hawley and by the music supervisor Marguerite Phillips, brings an excellent selection of rock from the 1970s, with names like Bobby Gentry, I must e Three Dog Night. 

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The soundtrack of Freaks and Geeks plays a crucial role in capturing the essence of the 1970s and 1980s, as well as reflecting the complexities of a teenager trying to fit in. With over 120 songs across its 18 episodes, the series was an introduction to music, including artists such as Joan Jett, Van Halen, Grateful Dead e Kiss. In addition, the production used music to highlight the difference between the freaks and the geeks, with tracks that defined the characters' different musical tastes, from classic rock to soul and psychedelic.

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The best original series soundtrack is Game of Thrones. Composed by Ramin Djawadi, it is one of the most iconic ever made, helping to cement the series as a modern epic. Djawadi, from the beginning, understood perfectly how music should reflect the grandeur of Westeros, ranging from moments of pure battle intensity to scenes of deep emotional resonance. His compositions capture the magnitude of the drama while deepening the mythology of the series. 

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The soundtrack of Gilmore Girls is as eclectic and striking as the protagonists themselves, Rory (Alexis Bledel) e Lorelai (Lauren Graham), whose varied musical tastes help create an interesting narrative and reflect the dynamics of the mother-daughter relationship. Starting with the classic Where You Lead, Carole King, which opens each episode, the series explores a wide range of genres, including pop, rock, blues and even the more alternative indie, with artists such as PJ Harvey, David Bowie, Sam Phillips, Yoko Ono e The White Stripes.

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Created by and starring Lena Dunham, Girls has a brilliant sonic representation of the turbulence of young adult life, especially in the 2010s. Among the most memorable musical moments in the series is the scene with Dancing On My Own, Robyn, which perfectly encapsulates the feeling of loneliness and self-discovery of Hannah (Dunham) while she dances. 

Furthermore, one of the best soundtracks for series that delves into millennial malaise and the refusal to face adult life is dominated by artists from the 2000s and 2010s, such as MGMT, Scissor Sisters e ion Pit, which give a unique vibe to the characters' confusing and emotional experiences. The Knife, LCD Soundsystem, Belle & Sebastian e St. Vincent also contribute to the identity of the narrative.

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Here we have another impeccable soundtrack that transports the audience to the 1980s. In the curation, we have the theme song The Warrior, Scandal with Patty Smyth and tracks from artists like Billy Joel, Scorpions, Starship, and The Go-Go's, which help to package the vibrant and euphoric story that takes place in the world of wrestling. 

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Thomas Golubic, known for his work on shows like Breaking Bad. e The Walking Dead, is responsible for the soundtrack of H and balances popular tracks like Human League e The Clash with non-obvious choices, such as BigBoys e X-Ray Spex, giving an authentic and diverse feel to the series. 

As the characters mature, the soundtrack also evolves, with the inclusion of Billy Joel. To complement the retro atmosphere, former member of Tangerine Dream, Paul Haslinger, brought his experience with vintage synthesizers, creating an immersive track that deviates from the clichés of the 1980s.

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Hannibal can be considered the series with the best soundtrack of all time. Composed by Brian Reitzell, it stands out for the way it reflects its complex characters, especially Hannibal Lecter (Mads Mikkelsen). Reitzell, known for his work in film and video games, has created 20 tracks that range from soft, melancholic piano to imposing, chaotic soundscapes. 

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Curated by the music supervisor Ciara Elwis, the soundtrack is an essential part of the series' narrative, powerfully reflecting issues involving identity, sexuality, rape culture and mental health. The soundtrack mainly highlights black British artists, such as Little Simz, Green Tea Peng, Arlo parks e Young T & Bugsey, giving visibility to emerging talents in R&B, hip-hop and indie. 

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With musical supervision by Kier Lehman, the series features an eclectic mix that combines established artists and celebrates rap and R&B, such as Drake, Cardi B e Kendrick Lamar, with emerging talents such as Leikeli47 e Emanuel. In the presence of Solange Knowles as a musical consultant brought even more authenticity and emotion to the narrative, especially when exploring the daily lives and relationships of Issa (Issa Rae). 

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One of the best TV soundtracks, it is a vibrant celebration of the 1980s and a crucial component of the narrative about the fight against AIDS. With anthems queer and hits of the decade, such as It's A Sin two Pet Shop Boys, Running up that hill de Kate Bush e Freedom de Wham!, music amplifies the emotions of the story, from moments of joy to the most dramatic ones. 

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Legion mixes classic and psychedelic rock, including references to Pink Floyd, with tracks like Breathe (In the Air) e On the Run, and incorporates contemporary music such as Heroin, from Velvet Underground, and Wot de Captain Sensible. In addition to the curation, the composer Jeff Russo combines classical elements with electronic and ambient sounds, creating dense and propulsive atmospheres, while the music complements the journey of David Haller (Dan Stevens) and their encounters with the depths of the human mind. For all this, Legion wins a place on the list of series with the best soundtrack.

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Artists like Florence + The Machine, The Clash, The Black Keys, Elle King e Royal Deluxe are part of this mix of rock and indie, solidifying the soundtrack as one of the most memorable among the series. The main song, Horns de Bryce Fox also manages to summarize the aesthetics of the plot in a unique way. 

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The musical selection is eclectic, including tracks from artists such as Ennio Morricone, David Bowie, Kraftwerk and even the hits nostalgic Dolce Vita de Ryan Paris, plus a pinch of fun with Vengaboys. The care taken in choosing the songs is remarkable, as, although diverse and varied, they are inserted in an organic way and manage to further accentuate the tone of the scenes. 

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Composed mainly of Mac Quayle, the track is based on low synth pulses that generate a growing sense of claustrophobia, reflecting the experience of Elliot Alderson (Rami Malek) in her struggle with mental health and her distorted views of reality. The music, often somber and hypnotic, intensifies key moments, such as the surreal scene in the first season where the beauty of Opening, Philip Glass, combines with the bizarreness of Elliot.

 The series also doesn't hesitate to use unexpected contrasts, like the pop of Steal My Sunshine, from LEN, to illustrate the internal struggle of Elliot to fit into a “normal” world. References to composers such as Vangelis e Cliff Martinez also appear, but the soundtrack never sounds derivative but rather innovative.

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With one of the best series soundtracks, normal people has a musical curation that uniquely complements the melancholic and introspective tone of the story. Connell (Paul Mescal) e Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones). While many of the artists may be relatively unknown, the selection includes big names such as Frank Ocean, Selena Gomez, Carly-Rae Jepsen e Imogen Heap, which blend perfectly with indie tracks and sensitive beats. 

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The soundtrack of One Tree Hill stands out as one of the most memorable teen series, with music playing an essential role in the evolution of the characters and the plot. From the first episode, with the CD collection of Peyton Sawyer (Hilarie Burton), it was clear that the series would be a musical paradise. Artists like Jimmy Eat World, foo Fighters, Fall Out Boy, Tegan and sara, Sheryl Crow, Keane of course, Gavin DeGraw with the theme song I Don't Want to Be, marked the series with their unforgettable melodies. 

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The theme song Gotta Get Up, Harry Nilson, became a symbol of the endless cycle that the protagonist Nadia (Natasha Lyonne) lives, being a catchy alarm that marks the beginning of each repetition. In addition to this track, the series features an eclectic selection of songs that capture emotional and reflective moments, such as the cover of I Go To Sleep, Anika, the smooth vocals of ALA.NI em Cherry Blossom and the striking Alone Again Or, from the psychedelic rock band Love. 

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The musical taste of  Olivia Pope (Kerry Washington), reflects its sophisticated character, with a selection that includes classics of soul, R&B and old-school pop, such as Curtis Mayfield, J, Marvin Gaye, Chaka Khan e Nina Simone. This musical context was carefully selected by the music supervisor Alexandra Patsavas, in collaboration with the creator Shonda Rhimes, and became an essential element in building the program's atmosphere.

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Created by Zach Braff, the soundtrack stands out for its use of songs by indie rock bands and singers, such as Lazlo Bane, Polyphonic Spree e Death Cab for Cutie. Additionally, the series includes performances by the actors themselves, such as Donald faison e Sarah Chalke, especially in the musical episode, which featured ten original songs. 

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The most iconic song is probably What's Up, from 4 Non Blondes, in a memorable scene that amplifies the feeling of unity and connection between the characters, adding a deep layer of emotional resonance to the narrative. In addition, the soundtrack includes striking tracks such as Sapphire, Late Night Alumni, Facing East, Thievery Corporation, and the central theme of the series, Sense8 Theme, composed by Johnny Klimek e Tom tykwer, who were also responsible for composing the soundtrack. 

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The theme song of Sex and the City, The Theme from Sex and the City composed by Douglas Cuomo, is instantly recognizable and has become a symbol of the series. The melody perfectly accompanies the glamour and energy of New York, setting the tone for the characters' adventures and relationships. This song, along with the brilliant soundtrack that includes tracks from artists such as D, Otis Redding, Nina Simone, Tina Turner e Ella Fitzgerald did a great job for the series.

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With an eclectic musical selection, the series mixes overtly sexual songs, such as Push it de Salt N Pepa, Do Ya Think I'm Sexy de Rod Stewart e Hanky ​​Panky de Tommy James & The Shondells, with rock and indie classics including Frankie goes to hollywood, Fleetwood Mac, T.Rex, The Velvet Underground e David Bowie. This musical diversity, combined with an ambiguous approach to the period, keeps the series from becoming easily dated, allowing it to focus on its characters and storylines without distraction. 

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The soundtrack of Silicon Valley, with its mix of electronic beats and hip-hop tracks, complements the eccentric and competitive setting of the series, set in the tech-savvy world of San Francisco. The musical selection includes big names in hip-hop, such as Dj shadow, Nas, Run the jewels, Method Man e Raekwon. 

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The Norwegian series masterfully mixes international popular hits and songs by local artists. Songs like Take me to church de Hozier e The Less I Know The Better de Tame Impala, Dancing On My Own da Robyn are some of hits used to package the development of interpersonal relationships between the characters. In addition, one of the most striking scenes of the production and which went viral at the time is Noora Sætre (Josephine Frida) doing a cover of More Than Words, from the band Extreme.

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The soundtrack of Skins is a vibrant reflection of youth culture and indie music of the 2000s, featuring a selection of tracks that capture the rebellious energy and emotional intensity of the series. Featuring artists such as cat stevens, MGMT, Crystal castles, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Vampire Weekend, Florence + The Machine e Skepta, music has become an integral part of the party- and chaos-driven identity of teenagers. 

Additionally, the production had a significant impact on the music of the time, promoting the popularity of tracks such as Standing In The Way Of Control, from Gossip, and boosting new bands like Foals e Late Of The Pier. 

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With a mix of 1980s classics like Africa do Pools, Should I Stay or Should I Go do The Clash, and hits of artists like The Police, Bon Jovi e Duran Duran, creating an immersive environment. The sound of Hawkins is also strongly marked by the original vintage synthesizer track composed by Kyle Dixon e Michael Stein, from the electronic band SURVIVE, with its famous theme song being one of the biggest highlights. In addition, the series brought back classics such as Running up that hill de Kate Bush, which, after being featured in the fourth season, became a global phenomenon streaming. 

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The series' musical curation focuses on blues and indie rock, including artists such as Bo diddley, freddy king, Charles Bradley, The Blue Stones, BB King, Etta James, Jimi Hendrix e Nina Simone, creating a rich and diverse soundtrack. In addition, the theme song Greenback Boogie became a landmark in setting the tone for the production.

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With a mix that ranges from 1980s and 1990s rock to pop mainstream, music becomes almost a character in its own right, setting the tone for both cathartic moments and more intimate scenes. 

The use of Spiders (Kidsmoke) do Wilco is a perfect example of how a song can heighten the energy and emotion of a scene. The series also includes other notable moments, such as the success of REM, Strange Currencies, which becomes a recurring love theme for the protagonist Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) and your ion Claire (Molly Gordon), And Richard (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) singing at the top of your lungs Love Story da Taylor Swift.

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The series, based on the work of Charles S. Forsman, follows two troubled teenagers, James (Alex Lawther) e Alyssa (Jessica Barden), on a journey of escape filled with love, crime and violence, and the soundtrack is essential to help illustrate all the chaos. With tracks like Settin' the Woods On Fire de Hank Williams, At Seventeen de Janis Ian e Funnel of Love de Wanda jackson, the music emphasizes the melancholy and rebellion of the plot. The guitarist of Blur, Graham coxon, also contributed original compositions, including the theme song Walking All Day. 

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With a mix of classics from the 1950s and 1960s, such as Fred Astaire, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Doris Day, Dinah Washington e Nina Simone, the music perfectly evokes the time period in which the story takes place, while also incorporating original songs created for the character Shy Baldwin (Leroy McClain), which brings a modern and unique touch to the narrative. 

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The soundtrack of T still functions today as a showcase for the best of indie and alternative rock from the 2000s. The curation includes everything from the iconic theme song, California do Phantom Planet, until the popularization of indie bands like Death Cab for Cutie e The Killers. Other names that marked important scenes are Finley Quay e Imogen Heap.

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With the curatorship of David chase, creator of the series, in partnership with the producer Martin Bruestle, the music publisher Kathryn Dayak e Steven VanZandt, the musical selection mixes classic rock, pop, jazz, hip-hop and other styles. The most popular musical moment is undoubtedly the remix of Woke up this morning, from the band Alabama 3, which has become the series' trademark. Additionally, the show features tracks from legendary artists such as Frank Sinatra, Moby, T, Journey e The Rolling Stones. 

This Is Us 3mci

Carefully selected, the soundtrack spans a variety of genres and artists, including names like Sufjan Stevens, Nina Simone, Lizzo, The Rolling Stones and many others that contribute to deeply touching moments. The series uses these tracks to complement and enrich the narrative, whether in scenes of great emotion or in moments of introspection. 

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The soundtrack of T has stood out in all of its seasons, with each one bringing a unique musical identity to complement the dark and intense tone of the series.

In the first season, curated by renowned producer T-Bone Burnett brought a mix of rock, country, cajun folk and hard blues, with an emphasis on the style southern noir (literary subgenre characterized by suspense and mystery stories). The second season, although divided opinions about the plot, continued with exceptional sound quality, featuring contributions from Leonard Cohen and the singer Lera Lynn.

In the third season, the music was carefully chosen to reflect the dense and emotional atmosphere, with a combination of blues, soul and psychedelic elements, enriching the mystery of the central investigation. Finally, the fourth season, released more recently, followed the series' tradition with an equally impactful musical curation, which still explores new ways to create tension and emotional depth through music.

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Created by Angelo Badalamenti under the guidance of David Lynch, the soundtrack has a combination of atmospheric elements, dream pop and jazz that perfectly convey the mysterious and surrealist tone of the plot, with emphasis on the theme song Laura Palmer's Theme, which became emblematic among fans.

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The soundtrack of Utopia, composed by Cristobal Tapia De Veer, is one of the main elements that contributes to the unique and challenging atmosphere of the series. With a “guerrilla” style, From Veer uses unconventional recordings and unusual instruments, creating disturbing electronic sounds and hissing moans. These disconcerting and experimental compositions reflect the essence of the plot, immersive and full of paranoia.

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Co-created by Martin Scorsese e Mick Jagger, the series delves into the vibrant and chaotic world of the music industry in the 1970s, and its music faithfully reflects this energy. The soundtrack features an explosive mix of classics from the era, such as songs by the band The Rolling Stones and the eternal David Bowie, alongside original tracks from contemporary artists such as Sugar Daddy de Sturgill simpson, which became the main theme of the series.

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The soundtrack of watchmen (2019), created by Trent reznor e Atticus Ross, from the band Nine Inch Nails, brings from melancholic ambient sounds to gospel arrangements, perfectly accompanying the themes explored, such as generational trauma, racism and American political issues.

 The adaptation of Damon Lindeloff also stands out for its curation, including Mr. Blue de The Fleetwoods, which gains a touch of irony when played while the Doctor Manhattan appears on the screen. In addition, the series incorporates classics from artists such as Eartha Kitt, Frank Sinatra e David Bowie, as well as tracks like the one by the Zambian band Witch, creating a unique harmony between the sounds of the past and the darker elements of the plot. 

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Composed by Ramin Djawadi (known for his work on Game of Thrones), the soundtrack of Westworld is one of the most creative features of the series. The use of covers of iconic songs, such as Paint It, Black de The Rolling Stones, S de David Bowie e No Surprises do Radiohead in their classical and instrumental versions they bring a unique perspective of the western and the entire experience during the plot.

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yellowjackets has one of the best soundtracks of any series and is mainly composed of 1990s nostalgia. With a predominantly female soundtrack, the narrative is mainly packed with alternative rock from artists such as Hole, Tori amos, Garbage e The Cranberries.

Additionally, music is also used meticulously, with tracks like Down by the Water de PJ Harvey, which sets the tone of the series from the first episode, and zombie two Cranberries, which became a huge hit among fans. Supervised by Jen Malone e Whitney Pilzer, the soundtrack reinforces the survival narrative and the characters' internal conflicts, becoming an essential part of the story.

Which series left an impression on you because of their soundtrack? Tell us in the comments!

Text proofread by: Thiago Almeida in 18 / 02 / 2025.

Sources: ELLE, GQ e NME

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