The Sounds of Euphoria
Posted on March 24, 2022
Photo by HBO
The music in HBO’S Euphoria left me in awe after every episode. From timeless classics to modern hits, this season of the award-winning show featured a wide range of music genres that perfectly fit each scene. They were meticulous in the songs chosen, which paid off in the end. The choices were so thoughtful to the point where they would record original songs to fit the episode, and even re-record them if it didn’t turn out the way they wanted. Esquire describes the music in Euphoria as a character in and of itself. It held such power over the scenes and without it, the show wouldn’t be where it is today.
Photo by HBO
Music was highly valued in the production of the series. It features original work by award-winning artist Labrinth, who has greatly contributed to the environment in Euphoria. Giving the story its unique sound, this season’s soundtrack also features original songs by the ever-amazing Zendaya and talented Dominic Fike. With over 100 songs in this season alone, Insider describes how the music producer of the show wanted to mix hyper-reality into their song choice. Jen Malone states that the creator of the show, Sam Levinson, writes the script with specific songs in mind which guides the music producers to their song choices. She states how they weren’t using songs carelessly, as each piece had a certain intent and purpose for the scene. They were even using songs to foreshadow what was next, and even helped tease where a character arc was heading. Levinson wanted to use music to help tell his story, which was well-received by viewers.
Photo by HBO
I wrote this article to show and spread appreciation for the music in this season of Euphoria. But I also just wanted to share a few of my favourite songs too. I love “Right Down the Line” by Gerry Rafferty as it was played during one of the first times Rue hung out with Elliot. It set the tone of their friendship and gave insight into their relationship. The chilling song “I’m Tired” by Labrinth left viewers in awe when it played during the fourth episode. This original song by Labrinth fit the scene perfectly and gave everyone goosebumps from its stunning performance by the artist and how it matched Rue’s feelings at that moment. The minute I heard “L’amore Dice Ciao” by Armando Trovajoli and Andee Silver, I knew I had to find it. It gave me goosebumps when I heard it play during the last episode because it perfectly matched the scene and held so much emotion. And the song that I’ve recently become obsessed with is “It Never Rains In Southern California” by Albert Hammond. It started playing as Rue was running home after the worst night of her life. I love the juxtaposition between the song’s happy tone and the saddening scene that was unfolding in front of the audience.
Photo by HBO
The incredible attention to music and showing its value in Euphoria is one of the reasons why it is so popular. It showed audiences new and old songs that captured each scene perfectly. All songs complimented the story and we have to appreciate all the time, money, and effort they put into their soundtrack. Euphoria never ceases to amaze audiences and I can’t wait to see how they use music to enhance their story in Season 3.
