20 TV Shows that used their soundtrack to perfection

Soundtracks define the mood of a TV show. They bring scenes to life in ways words alone cannot. A tense standoff hits harder when backed by the right instrumental notes. A heartfelt goodbye stays with you when paired with a perfect song. Music creates moments that stick, making certain shows unforgettable for viewers. The beauty lies in how these shows use music at exactly the right time. It’s not just the song but how it ties into the story and the feeling it creates. These soundtracks become a part of the experience, staying in our minds long after the episode ends.

1. Stranger Things (Netflix)

The music in Stranger Things defines its atmosphere and characters. The synth-heavy score by Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein sets a haunting and nostalgic tone. Kate Bush’s Running Up That Hill became a global hit after it was used in Season 4. The song played during Max’s emotional fight against Vecna, symbolizing hope and survival. The soundtrack amplifies the emotional pull of every scene and brings 1980s nostalgia to life. Without its music, the show would lose much of its impact and emotional weight. It would not resonate as deeply with viewers or feel as iconic.

2. Euphoria (HBO)

The music in Euphoria matches its raw and emotional tone. Labrinth’s original score drives the intensity of each scene. Songs like Still Don’t Know My Name and All for Us highlight the struggles and inner turmoil of the characters. Modern tracks like Billie Eilish’s You Should See Me in a Crown reflect the realities of teenage chaos. The music is not just a backdrop but a vital part of the storytelling. Every choice feels deliberate and essential to the mood. Without its soundtrack, the show would lose much of its emotional depth and connection with its audience.

3. Breaking Bad (AMC)

Breaking Bad uses music to tell its story in a way that feels deliberate and bold. Badfinger’s Baby Blue in the finale reflects Walt’s acceptance of his choices and leaves a lasting impression. Crystal Blue Persuasion plays during a meth-making montage, adding a dark irony to the scene. Dave Porter’s original score creates tension in every episode. The music mirrors the moral complexities of its characters and enhances the storytelling. Without it, the show would not feel as immersive or impactful. The soundtrack made key moments unforgettable and shaped its cultural legacy.

4. The Sopranos (HBO)

The Sopranos uses music to create moments that stay with viewers long after the episode ends. Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’ in the final scene is both iconic and divisive. Tracks like Living on a Thin Line by The Kinks reflect Tony Soprano’s inner struggles. Woke Up This Morning by Alabama 3 became synonymous with the show’s tone and themes. The music adds depth and layers to the story in a way that feels timeless and personal. Without its carefully selected soundtrack, the show would not hold the same cultural weight or emotional resonance.

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5. Game of Thrones (HBO)

The music in Game of Thrones feels as grand as its story. Ramin Djawadi’s score defines many of the show’s most memorable moments. Light of the Seven during Cersei’s destruction of the Sept of Baelor creates a haunting and suspenseful atmosphere. The Title Theme instantly transports viewers to the world of Westeros. The score captures the tension, betrayal, and triumph of every episode. It adds a sense of scale and emotion to the series that feels essential. Without its music, the show would lose much of its emotional power and iconic status.

6.Twin Peaks (ABC)

The music in Twin Peaks sets the tone for its strange and unsettling atmosphere. Angelo Badalamenti’s Laura Palmer’s Theme creates a dreamy and haunting feeling that mirrors the mystery in the story. The melodies evoke emotions of fear, sadness, and suspense in ways the dialogue cannot. David Lynch worked with Badalamenti to ensure the music fit the bizarre and emotional elements of the show. Without the soundtrack, the show would not feel as enigmatic or emotionally intense. The music became an integral part of the experience, making it impossible to separate the two.

7. Mad Men (AMC)

The soundtrack in Mad Men brings the 1960s to life with carefully chosen songs that enhance its themes. Nancy Sinatra’s You Only Live Twice plays during Don Draper’s pivotal moments of reflection and change. Songs like Shahdaroba by Roy Orbison highlight personal struggles and triumphs in the characters’ lives. Every track connects with the emotions and stories of the characters. The music immerses viewers in the era while adding layers to the narrative. Without it, the show would not feel as authentic or emotionally powerful. The soundtrack shaped how the audience connected with the story and its characters.

8. Fleabag (BBC/Amazon)

The music in Fleabag blends choral arrangements with indie tracks to match its raw and emotional tone. Isobel Waller-Bridge’s score uses a church-like sound to contrast Fleabag’s chaotic and messy life. Tracks like This Feeling by Alabama Shakes underscore her moments of vulnerability and self-awareness. The music deepens the humor and heartbreak without overshadowing the story. Every song feels deliberate and perfectly timed to reflect the character’s emotions. The soundtrack helps the audience connect with Fleabag’s journey in a deeper way. Without it, the emotional impact of the show would not feel as strong or authentic.

9. The O.C. (Fox)

The music in The O.C. became a defining part of its identity and cultural influence. Jeff Buckley’s Hallelujah added depth to emotional scenes like Marissa’s death, turning them into unforgettable moments. Phantom Planet’s California became the show’s anthem and set the mood for its coastal setting. The show introduced bands like Death Cab for Cutie and made indie music mainstream for a generation. The soundtrack felt as important as the story, and resonated with its audience. Without the soundtrack, The O.C. would not have achieved the same emotional and cultural impact.

10. Atlanta (FX)

The music in Atlanta reflects its cultural and emotional depth through a mix of genres. Songs like Migos’ Bad and Boujee and FKA twigs’ Two Weeks fit seamlessly into the surreal and thought-provoking story. Donald Glover’s own track Bonfire ties his musical career to the show’s creative vision. Each song connects to the struggles and aspirations of the characters in ways that feel real and meaningful. The soundtrack creates an immersive experience that matches the humor and tension of the show’s world. Without its music, Atlanta would lose a significant part of its voice and authenticity.

11. Grey’s Anatomy (ABC)

The music in Grey’s Anatomy shaped its emotional intensity and storytelling. Snow Patrol’s Chasing Cars played during Derek Shepherd’s death and turned an already devastating moment into an unforgettable scene. Songs like How to Save a Life by The Fray added weight to emotional episodes and left a lasting impact on viewers. Anna Nalick’s Breathe accompanied one of the most intense moments in the series and became a fan favorite. The show used music to connect with its audience on a deeper level. Without its carefully chosen soundtrack, it would not have resonated as strongly with viewers.

12. The Leftovers (HBO)

Max Richter’s compositions defined the tone of The Leftovers and enhanced its emotional weight. Tracks like On the Nature of Daylight captured the grief and loss that ran through the story. The Pixies’ Where Is My Mind? added layers of meaning to moments of existential reflection. Richter’s music created an atmosphere of sorrow and hope that matched the show’s themes. The score worked seamlessly with its visuals to amplify the emotions of each scene. Without this haunting and reflective music, the show would not have achieved the same depth or impact on its audience.

13. Succession (HBO)

The music in Succession created an atmosphere of power and tension that reflected the Roy family’s dynamics. Nicholas Britell’s score used discordant piano notes and swelling strings to evoke grandeur and unease. The show’s theme became iconic for its ability to capture the essence of wealth and manipulation. Tracks like Rondo in F Minor heightened the intensity of key moments in the boardroom and family confrontations. The music felt like an extension of the characters and their constant scheming. Without Britell’s score, the show would not feel as sharp or carry the same storytelling weight.

14. The Umbrella Academy (Netflix)

The soundtrack in The Umbrella Academy brought energy and personality to its chaotic world. Tiffany’s I Think We’re Alone Now played during a family dance-off and turned a quiet moment into something unforgettable. Queen’s Don’t Stop Me Now added humor and excitement to an action-packed scene. Gerard Way’s Here Comes the End felt like a perfect match for the show’s themes of dysfunction and redemption. The music highlighted the quirks and struggles of the characters in a way that felt fresh and engaging. Without its bold musical choices, the show would lack much of its charm and distinct style.

15. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (The WB/UPN)

The music in Buffy the Vampire Slayer reflected its blend of supernatural drama and teenage struggles. The musical episode Once More, with Feeling featured Rest in Peace, a song that revealed Spike’s internal conflict and love for Buffy. Alternative rock tracks from bands like Garbage and The Breeders underscored pivotal moments in the characters’ lives. The music felt deeply tied to the show’s themes of identity, love, and loss. It added emotional weight to battles and personal growth throughout the series. Without its daring use of music, Buffy would not have had the same lasting cultural impact.

16. Skins (UK, E4)

The music in Skins reflects the raw and chaotic lives of its teenage characters. Songs like Time to Pretend by MGMT amplify moments of reckless freedom. Adele’s Hometown Glory adds emotional weight to pivotal scenes of heartbreak and self-discovery. The soundtrack mixes indie, electronic, and experimental tracks that feel authentic to the characters' struggles. Each song matches the energy and tone of the show’s unpredictable nature. The music becomes a direct extension of the characters' emotions and choices. Without its bold and varied soundtrack, the show would not feel as real or emotionally engaging to its audience.

17. Big Little Lies (HBO)

The music in Big Little Lies sets the mood for its emotional and mysterious story. Michael Kiwanuka’s Cold Little Heart introduces the themes of hidden truths and strained relationships. Villagers’ Nothing Arrived underscores moments of vulnerability and reflection in the characters’ lives. The songs feel tied to the coastal setting and the emotions of the story. The soundtrack does more than accompany the scenes. It draws viewers into the intimate and complicated world of its characters. Without the music, the series would not carry the same weight or leave as strong an impression.

18. The Wire (HBO)

The music in The Wire mirrors the grit and complexity of Baltimore. Way Down in the Hole, performed by different artists each season, introduces the show’s themes of corruption and survival. Dance My Pain Away by Rod Lee is among songs that feel rooted in the community and connect to the lives of the characters. The mix of hip-hop, soul, and blues enhances the show’s realism and grounds its storytelling in the city’s culture. The music feels inseparable from the world it portrays. Without its authentic sound, The Wire would lose much of its depth and connection to its setting.

19. Friday Night Lights (NBC)

The music in Friday Night Lights reflects the dreams and struggles of smalltown life. Explosions in the Sky composed a score that feels intimate and heartfelt. Tracks like Your Hand in Mine enhance the emotional weight of key moments on and off the football field. Tony Lucca’s Devil Town adds to the show’s sense of place and identity. The music connects deeply with the characters’ hopes, failures, and relationships. Each song feels like a natural part of the story and setting. Without the music, the show would not achieve the same emotional depth or authenticity.

20. Hannibal (NBC)

The music in Hannibal creates an unsettling yet beautiful atmosphere. Brian Reitzell’s score uses experimental sounds to heighten the tension and psychological intensity. Classical pieces like Bach’s Goldberg Variations mirror Hannibal Lecter’s refined but dangerous nature. The music matches the elegance and darkness of the visuals and characters. Each composition adds to the feeling of unease while drawing viewers deeper into the story. The soundtrack becomes a vital part of the experience by making every scene feel layered and intentional. Without the music, the show would not carry the same haunting and sophisticated tone.