The Enduring Power of Six Feet Under's Soundtrack

10 Jul 2024

How often does a television show's music stay with you long after the final credits roll? For many, HBO's "Six Feet Under" achieved this through its carefully curated soundtrack. More than just background music, the show's eclectic mix of songs became a character in itself, deeply intertwined with the lives, losses, and emotional journeys of the Fisher family and those who came into their orbit.

From the haunting melodies of the opening theme, "A Friend of the Family" by Thomas Newman, to the soul-stirring lyrics of artists like PJ Harvey, Nina Simone, and Radiohead, the music of "Six Feet Under" added layers of depth and complexity to an already poignant narrative. The show's creator, Alan Ball, envisioned the music as a vital element in setting the tone and atmosphere of the series, often opting for existing songs rather than a traditional orchestral score. This choice resulted in a raw, intimate soundscape that resonated deeply with viewers.

The importance of the "Six Feet Under" soundtrack extends beyond its artistic merit. It sparked a renewed interest in the artists featured, introducing a new generation to legendary musicians and showcasing the work of emerging talents. The show's willingness to embrace a diverse range of genres, from folk and blues to electronica and alternative rock, challenged conventional television soundtracks of the time.

The legacy of the "Six Feet Under" soundtrack is undeniable. It became a cultural touchstone, influencing a wave of television shows and films that sought to replicate its emotional impact through music. It demonstrated the power of music to elevate storytelling, creating a visceral connection between viewers and the characters on screen.

While compiling a definitive list of the "best" songs from the show proves difficult given its extensive catalog, tracks like Sia's "Breathe Me," used memorably in the series finale, have become synonymous with "Six Feet Under," cementing their place in television history. The impact of the soundtrack is evident in the countless fan-made playlists, discussions, and analyses that continue to emerge online, proving that the emotional resonance of the music endures.

Perhaps one of the reasons the "Six Feet Under" soundtrack remains so powerful is its universality. While the show centers around a family running a funeral home, the themes explored—love, loss, grief, redemption, the search for meaning—are universally relatable. The music, carefully chosen to reflect these themes, acts as a conduit for shared human experiences, allowing viewers to find solace, connection, and even a sense of catharsis within its melodies and lyrics.

Whether you're a longtime fan revisiting the emotional landscape of the show or a newcomer curious about the music that helped define a generation of television, exploring the "Six Feet Under" soundtrack is a rewarding experience. It serves as a testament to the power of music to move us, connect us, and stay with us long after the final note fades.