The Ultimate Soundtrack Guide: Unveiling the Full Song List of Showtime's Yellowjackets Season 1

The music featured in Showtime's Yellowjackets plays a crucial role in anchoring the ambitious show and bridging its various genres, including mystery, supernatural elements, and thriller aspects. Despite the challenges presented by a star-studded cast, multiple narrative timelines, and complex relationships spanning years, the show consistently rises to the occasion. Undoubtedly, the captivating soundtrack of Yellowjackets contributes to its status as one of the most compelling and outstanding TV series of 2021. Moreover, the Yellowjackets soundtrack effectively distinguishes between the two timelines present in the show.

In season 1 of Yellowjackets, the storyline is divided over a span of 25 years. In 1996, after a plane crash, the Yellowjackets football team finds themselves stranded in the wilderness, and the season follows their struggle for survival until the arrival of the first snowfall. Simultaneously, in 2021, a group of adult survivors endeavors to keep their secrets from the 19-month wilderness ordeal concealed from the public eye. In addition to showcasing a narrative centered around female characters, Yellowjackets also depicts significant LGBTQ+ representation. From the first episode, the show creates a nostalgic vibe with carefully selected songs from the early and mid-1990s. Here is a complete list of songs featured on the Yellowjackets season 1 soundtrack.

Yellowjackets Episode 1, “Pilot”

"Today" by The Smashing Pumpkins sets the tone as the title card appears and the camera sweeps across New Jersey after the team learns they are going to the national championship. It marks the beginning of the Yellowjackets soundtrack, a perfect encapsulation of '90s music.

In the pilot episode of Yellowjackets, Shauna listens to Liz Phair's 1994 track "Supernova" in her car while waiting for Jackie outside her house.

"Informer" by Snow plays when Jackie removes the tape from Shauna's car and switches to the radio, and it continues playing in the background for the remainder of the scene.

The Yellowjackets, while getting ready for the pep rally in the locker room, jam to "Shoop," the popular 1993 track by Salt-N-Pepa.

At the pep rally, the Yellowjackets are introduced with the energetic song "Good Vibrations" by Marky Mark and The Funky Bunch, which was released in 1991. Misty, the Yellowjackets' equipment manager, jumps up and down with enthusiasm to the music.

In Melanie Lynskey's character Shauna's bedroom, Jackie and Shauna prepare for the party while listening to Dore Soul's song "What If..." from their 1994 album The New Shit.

In the first episode of Yellowjackets, as the teenagers attend a keg party in the woods, the song "Let Me Find Out" by POS NEG plays in the background.

During a scene where Natalie takes LSD and her older self is being picked up from rehab by a cab, the 1994 song "Miss World" by the band Hole, led by Courtney Love, is featured on the Yellowjackets soundtrack.

In the party scene, as Jackie guides the Yellowjackets soccer team from the noise to discuss their issues about Allie, the song "Counting Backwards" by Throwing Muses plays faintly. Following their argument, the team members, particularly Shauna and Jackie, strive to reconcile and question the state of their relationship. Accompanying this moment, the song "Wishing Well" by Knock-Out Drops provides a backdrop.

Natalie experiences the impact of LSD while gazing at the fire and hallucinates Misty's presence in the woods, all to the backdrop of PJ Harvey's 1995 track "Down By The Water."

Paloma Faith's "Never Tear Us Apart" disrupts the chronological order in Yellowjackets as it accompanies a montage showcasing the morning after the party. This scene captures the teenage soccer players preparing for the national competition before embarking on the ill-fated plane journey that leads to the Yellowjackets crash.

Yellowjackets Episode 2, "F Sharp"

The song "Hold On" by Wilson Phillips is featured in two important scenes in episode 2 of Yellowjackets. The first is in Misty's room in 1992 when she receives a harassing phone call. The second is towards the end of the episode when Misty and Natalie go on a road trip together, and the song is played on the car stereo. The song also accompanies a flashback to Misty's act of destroying the plane's black box in the woods in 1996.

The song "Mother Mother" by Tracy Bonham plays after Misty amputates assistant coach Ben Scott's leg, and it continues during the title card for Yellowjackets.

"Medusa" by Noonday Devils is heard in the car scene in Yellowjackets, while Misty and Natalie discuss potential suspects behind the postcards. Soon after, they are interrupted by Kevyn Tan, an old friend of Natalie's.

During Natalie's time in her motel room, she listens to Peaches' "Kick It" and later contacts Travis.

Yellowjackets Episode 3, "The Dollhouse"

"Glory Box" by Portishead sets the tone for a pivotal scene in the Yellowjackets soundtrack. As Shauna narrates her unsettling action of killing a rabbit for dinner, the haunting melody intertwines with the storyline transporting us to the year 1996. The song continues to weave its spell as the remaining members of the Yellowjackets discreetly cover the lifeless bodies on the plane with a banner. Meanwhile, Lottie, portrayed by Courtney Eaton, discovers her much-needed medication amidst her belongings. Gathering around the campfire, the team reflect on their remarkable survival and strategize their next moves.

The song "No Return" by Craig Wedren and Anna Waronker serves as the theme music for Yellowjackets. It is featured in Episode 3 titled "The Dollhouse," which notably includes a complete credits sequence. This captivating melody fills the soundtrack of Yellowjackets during the credits.

"Mr. Mistoffelees" - Cats Original Broadway Cast: "Mr. Mistoffelees" is a song featured in Cats, the Broadway musical created by Andrew Lloyd Weber. The musical is based on a collection of poems by T.S. Eliot. In the scene, Misty, an eccentric character who loves birds, plays the song in the car while driving with Natalie.

"Cambodia" - Kim Wilde: As Shauna suspects Jeff of cheating, she parks her car outside his store and plays "Cambodia" by Kim Wilde on the car stereo in Yellowjackets.

"Dreams" by The Cranberries plays on the Yellowjackets soundtrack as the survivors in 1996 discover the lake and joyfully run down the beach into its waters. The poignant melody continues to resonate throughout 2021 as Yellowjackets transitions from a young Nat observing Travis to an adult Nat arriving at Travis' house alongside Misty.

The closing song of episode 3 in Yellowjackets is "Vienna" by Ultravox. It softly begins as Natalie and Misty make their way to Willow Brook Ranch, gradually growing in intensity as the lyrics commence and the camera pans over Travis' lifeless body.

Yellowjackets Episode 4, "Bear Down"

"Mountain Song" by Jane's Addiction sets the tone in episode 4 of Yellowjackets as Natalie envisions her deceased father communicating with her during a plane ride. In 2021, Natalie listens to this song while driving, providing a nostalgic reprise.

In Natalie's bedroom, as she starts her stereo with young Kevyn, the captivating melodies of "Feel The Pain" by Dinosaur Jr. fill the room.

Yellowjackets Episode 5, "Blood Hive"

As Shauna and Adam take the daring leap from the bridge into the refreshing water below, the infectious beats of Republica's "Ready To Go" reverberate through the air, setting the scene for their exhilarating adventure. The music seamlessly transitions as the camera pans to the couple's passionate make-out session beside the car.

In 1996, while camping in a secluded cabin, the Yellowjackets joyfully blast "This Is How We Do It" by Montell Jordan on a makeshift speaker—a walkman connected to a metal bucket. They groove to the music, reminiscent of their spirited moves in the locker room before the pep rally. Unfortunately, the song abruptly stops as the radio's battery depletes, abruptly silencing the Yellowjackets' musical escapade.

"Emergency" by Sofi Tukker & Novak & YAX.X: In 2021, Adam and Shauna enter the club for the Halloween party, while this song provides the musical backdrop.

"Watashi No Sei" by Andrea Monorchio & Gun Kawamura: During Misty and Natalie's rendezvous with Misty's contact at the restaurant, this song sets the atmospheric tone as they acquire the file on Travis.

Yellowjackets Episode 6, "Saints"

"Munich" – Editors: When Kevyn meets up with Natalie in Yellowjackets outside her motel before going with her to sell her car, this song is playing from Kevyn's car.

"Love Comes Close" by Cold Cave sets the soundtrack for the scene where Kevyn waits for Natalie outside the car dealership. The song continues to play as they have a conversation before heading over to Kevyn's daughter's game.

The Original Broadway Cast and Andrew Lloyd Weber's rendition of "Overture To The Phantom Of The Opera" accompanies Misty in her car when she meets with Jessica Roberts. The song carries on as Misty proceeds to tie Jessica up in her basement. This choice of music aligns with Misty's habit of listening to show tunes in her car. Furthermore, the overture symbolizes the beginning of a new plot point in Yellowjackets, mirroring Misty's implementation of her sinister plan. The piece also reflects the musical's main theme concerning manipulation and control, which serves as a clear representation of Taissa's influence over Jessica.

Yellowjackets Episode 7, "No Compass"

In the opening credits scene of Yellowjackets, the song "No Return" by Amber Mark sets the tone as Taissa cuts her hair in preparation for her journey south. Just as the song begins, Van interrupts her. Later, during a pivotal moment in the series, the Original Broadway Cast and Andrew Lloyd Weber's rendition of "Overture To The Phantom Of The Opera" is used. This song previously appeared in episode 6 when Misty first kidnapped Jessica Roberts. Now, as Misty surveils Kevyn Tan on her iPad with a spy camera, Jessica shouts at her from the basement. Misty's enigmatic character is highlighted by her consistent peculiarities throughout the show.

"Firestarter" – The Prodigy: This Prodigy song plays in Yellowjackets during the 2021 scene that sees Natalie, Taissa, and Shauna chase after the anonymous blackmailer.

Yellowjackets Episode 8, "Flight Of The Bumblebee"

In the eighth episode of Yellowjackets, Mazzy Star's poignant song "Fade Into You" sets the mood as Natalie bids farewell to the cabin in 1996. She implores Travis to join her on a hunting trip, but he rejects her. The music intensifies as the scene transitions to 2021, showing an older Natalie applying makeup in her motel room while drowning her sorrows in alcohol. She reminisces about Kevyn and orchestrates a drug deal. As the song gently fades, the scene shifts back to 1996, where Natalie and Ben engage in a conversation by the river.

Yellowjackets Episode 9, "Doomcoming"

"The World I Know" by Collective Soul sets the mood in episode 9 of Yellowjackets, titled "Doomcoming," as various characters are shown in a montage. The song accompanies Misty as she retrieves her stash of shrooms, Jackie applying makeup, and Lottie pulling out Laura Lee's dress for the Doomcoming party. As Taissa offers Van fashionable headwear to cover her scars, the song fades, and it continues playing as Shauna struggles to zip up her dress over her baby bump and the rest of the survivors get ready for the party.

Upon transitioning to another 1996 scene, "Gepetto" by Belly starts playing as Lottie officially announces the beginning of Doomcoming. The song plays while the Yellowjackets survivors enter in a parade-like manner, with cheers erupting when Van and Taissa publicly reveal their relationship. As most survivors consume the drugged stew, the song fades away, coinciding with Shauna's request for Jackie to eat.

"Kiss From A Rose" – Yellowjackets Cast/Seal: Commemorating Laura Lee in a moment of silence, the survivors contemplate the absence of music until Lottie encourages them to break into song with Seal's "Kiss From A Rose." As the survivors start to sway, the original rendition of the melody softly plays in the background, evoking the ambiance of a high school dance.

Yellowjackets Episode 10, "Sic Transit Gloria Mundi"

"Rump Shaker" by Wreckx-N-Effect fills the air as Jeff and Randy engage in conversation during the initial scenes of the highly anticipated Yellowjackets season 1 Class of '96 reunion. As they chat, their interaction is interrupted by the arrival of Allie.

"The Haunted" by Dot Allison, featuring Amy Bowman, sets a haunting tone as Taissa, Shauna, and Natalie make their way back to where they are staying after covering up Adam's murder. The melancholic melody accompanies their preparations to confront the consequences of their actions at the reunion.

As Tai and Shauna arrive at the reunion, the previous song gradually fades away, making way for the vibrant sounds of "Ladykillers" by Lush. The catchy tune fills the air inside the reunion, where Tai and Shauna share jokes and are later joined by Natalie.

The Reunion begins with the energetic tune of "Come Out And Play" by The Offspring, resonating as Natalie, Taissa, and Shauna make their entrance. They confidently move through the crowd, which effortlessly parts to make way for them. Eventually, Misty also joins them, enhancing the atmosphere of the gathering.

Meanwhile, at Yellowjackets, the lively sounds of "All That She Wants" by Ace of Base fill the air. Shauna, amidst ordering drinks, confronts and intimidates Randy with her words, creating a tense situation.

The Divinyls' song "I Touch Myself" plays during the Yellowjackets reunion while Natalie toasts to "old friends," possibly reminiscing about Travis's passing. Allie includes Enya's song "Only Time" in her presentation of old photos at the reunion. The song carries on as the scene transitions to 1996, with Lottie leading the group in expressing gratitude for the bear while Jackie opts out.

"Kiss From A Rose" – Seal: Shauna and Jeff feel the pressure to dance at the 1996 reunion, accompanied by the familiar Seal song from the Yellowjackets soundtrack, which coincidentally, the group had performed at their Doomcoming.

"Vienna" – Ultravox: The final song of Yellowjackets season 1 is Ultravox's "Vienna." It enhances the scenes transitioning between Travis and Nat's search for Javi, with Travis expressing his love for Nat, while in 2021, Natalie discards Travis' autopsy photos.

What Artists Are In Yellowjackets Season 2?

Season 2 continues where the season 1 finale left off, delving into Lottie's unconventional cult while providing insight into the rituals from the show's first episode. The Yellowjackets soundtrack boasts a diverse and dynamic selection of songs, including popular 1990s pop and rock tunes that remain a consistent presence throughout the season. Additionally, Misty's fondness for show tunes is still a prominent feature. Season 2 maintains its love for '90s favorites such as Smashing Pumpkins and The Cranberries, but also introduces more contemporary music in the modern timeline. Artists like Florence + The Machine make multiple appearances, while modern covers of classics like St. Vincent's rendition of Metallica's "Sad But True" serve as a bridge between the two timelines.

In addition to that, season 2 introduces a new element to the Yellowjackets soundtrack. In one of the episode openings, Alanis Morissette provides a fresh rendition of "No Return," the show's theme song. This unexpected musical twist adds another layer of intrigue, mirroring how Yellowjackets continually subverts the audience's expectations in the upcoming season.