Top 9 Teen Drama Shows with Outstanding Soundtracks
Discover the top 9 teen drama shows with captivating soundtracks that have influenced the music tastes of viewers for years. From intense melodic music to classic picks, these shows have made a lasting impact on the music and the audience.
Euphoria (2019 - )
Euphoria, the spellbinding teen drama that took the world by storm, has become synonymous with captivating music, innovative fashion, and compelling drama. Premiering in 2019, the show has left an indelible mark on Gen Z and garnered widespread attention for its groundbreaking cinematography and makeup.
Zendaya as Rue and Hunter Schafer as Jules at the school auditorium in Euphoria season 2
The music featured on Euphoria is a diverse blend of popular current artists, classics from the past, and up-and-coming musicians who owe their exposure to the series. With an original score from Labrinth and impactful song choices like 'Dead of Night' by Orville Peck, the soundtrack of Euphoria reflects the emotional truths portrayed onscreen.
Rue at the funfair in Euphoria
The influence of Euphoria is undeniable, as being featured on the show virtually guarantees that an artist's music will gain popularity. The show's attention to music is as meticulous as its visual appeal, making it a cultural phenomenon.
Kat and Maddy in the bathroom
The O.C. (2003 - 2007)
The O.C., created by the iconic Josh Schwartz, left an indelible mark on teen drama with its culturally impactful soundtracks and iconic theme song, 'California' by Phantom Planet. Seth Cohen's (Adam Brody) obsession with indie rock bands like Death Cab For Cutie is a testament to the show's ability to bring together characters through music.
Marissa, Summer, Seth and Ryan standing and looking serious on The O.C.
The music of The O.C. set the tone for each episode and inspired a generation of young viewers to explore indie rock and alternative music. Its influence on music culture is undeniable, making it a must-watch for anyone with an appreciation for great soundtracks.
Blake Lively in Gossip Girl pilot
Freaks And Geeks (1999 - 2000)
Freaks and Geeks, set in the early '80s but filmed in the late '90s, captured the essence of the best songs of the second half of the twentieth century. The series' broad range of music choices reflected the characters' journey of self-discovery and the exploration of different musical tastes.
The cast of Freaks and Geeks standing by lockers
Each character represented a unique niche in the high school experience, and the song choices expressed their individuality. Known for its theme song 'Bad Reputation' by Joan Jett, Freaks and Geeks utilized music to evoke nostalgia and resonate with a diverse audience.
Veronica Mars (2004 - 2019)
Veronica Mars, with its tough and angsty playlist, captured the essence of the titular character, Veronica (Kristen Bell). The series' music aligned perfectly with Veronica's unique perspective, providing anthems that spoke to the experiences of teen girls struggling to fit in and discover themselves.
Veronica teasing Logan in Veronica Mars
Featuring upbeat, punk-leaning songs like 'One Way Or Another' by Blondie and hits from Fountains of Wayne, the soundtrack of Veronica Mars was both relevant and alternative, reflecting the essence of Veronica's character.
The Vampire Diaries (2009 - 2017)
The Vampire Diaries, known for its intense melodic music, accompanied the darker themes and supernatural elements of the story. With emotive voices and sympathetic lyrics from artists like Sara Bareilles, Florence + The Machine, and The Fray, the series successfully matched the musical accompaniment with its compelling drama.
Elena leaving the Gilbert house with the Salvatore brothers in The Vampire Diaries
The musical choices of The Vampire Diaries resonated with the emotional moments onscreen, creating a captivating and immersive experience for viewers. Its influence on the music and the audience is a testament to the power of a well-curated soundtrack.
Pretty Little Liars (2010 - 2017)
Pretty Little Liars, with its controversial plot points and character relationships, featured distinctive music cues that complemented the high stakes of the storyline. The in-world music, including modern pop hits from Lady Gaga and One Republic, reflected the personal style and emotional struggles of the characters.
Emily, Spencer, Aria, Hanna, and Mona Look at a Phone at a Funeral
The series' iconic theme song and emotionally charged music choices added depth to the narrative, making it an unforgettable experience for fans of teen drama soundtracks.
One Tree Hill (2003 - 2012)
One Tree Hill, known for its utilization of great songs and in-world performances by prominent musicians, made a significant impact on the music tastes of viewers. With non-diegetic sounds and in-world performances by artists like Sheryl Crow and Gavin DeGraw, the series brought music to the forefront of the narrative.
The Wreckers performing at Tric on One Tree Hill
The characters' use of music as a means to express their unsaid feelings resonated with the audience, making the soundtrack of One Tree Hill an essential element of the show's emotional appeal.
Gavin Degraw performing at Karen's Cafe on One Tree Hill
Gossip Girl (2007 - 2012)
Gossip Girl, dripping with wealth, privilege, and scandal, featured a fabulous music cue for every backstabbing moment in the storyline. The series' music added an adventurous and captivating element to the scandalous lives of the characters, making it a compelling watch for fans of teen drama.
Chuck and Blair in Gossip Girl
Created by Josh Schwartz, Gossip Girl's culturally impactful soundtracks and scandalous music choices have left a lasting impression on the music and the audience, making it a standout in the realm of teen drama soundtracks.
Serena and Dan at the bottom of the steps in Gossip Girl
Friday Night Lights (2006 - 2011)
Friday Night Lights, known for its classic picks that remain relevant today, went beyond its portrayal of football to offer a compelling soundtrack that resonated with the characters' everyday struggles. With classic country music and timeless hits, the series created a timeless appeal that has stood the test of time.
Coach Taylor giving speech at halftime in Friday Night Lights
The music of Friday Night Lights, with its relatable themes and enduring impact, has solidified its place as a classic in the realm of teen drama soundtracks, leaving a lasting impression on music culture.
