★★★★★
For the past few months the internet has blown up with everything from the Netflix Original series, 13 Reasons Why. This powerful show represents what goes on in High Schools, but worse how awful interactions can cause someone to take their own life. I read the book before watching the show, so I was already hooked but something I realized while watching was how amazing the soundtrack was. It fit the setting so unbelievably well, and I think that added to the show and our feelings throughout it. The soundtrack was a bit darker for the most part but that is fine seeing as how the television show was not supposed to give off a sunshine and puppies vibe. Another thing that fit the show well was that the artists that contributed were not the typical, top 40 hits that other shows would have used. For example other television shows targeted at younger people will use a song that is getting pretty high in the charts. The only two artists that I can say I knew of before watching was Vance Joy and Selena Gomez. I only knew around one song from Vance Joy so I am not in total shock, and with Selena Gomez she was the executive producer of the show so it makes sense she would contribute. The songs she added was an acoustic version of her hit “Kill Them with Kindness” and a cover of “Only You” by Yazoo. I believe using music that was not as well-known really represented both characters, Hannah Baker and Clay Jensen. The reason they would have been so great for each other was because they were different and unconventional. Hannah may have hung out with the “mainstream” people but her soul was so much more than them. It’s the same with Clay, people liked him, but he was not “mainstream”. They could be their quirky selves with each other and I believe using quirky, non-mainstream music was a brilliant way to go. It shows that you do not need to be the “IT” person. Another thing great about the soundtrack was how there were themes for each person with a tape. I think these went into the person’s life and showed what they were going through. For example with Justin it was a bit sadder and reminds you of the pain that he endures with his awful mother and her boyfriend. With Bryce his soundtrack had more mystery and worry behind it, which fits that jerk to a T. The themes were created by music producer Eskmo. Again, I never heard of him but I definitely will look out for his work now. I have to say one of my newest favorites from the soundtrack is “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron. This song is amazing in my eyes. The intro of the song starts with the feeling of being at a dance and being nervous to ask someone like the episode in the show. I think this went well with the show because it says “bring me back” which is great for flashbacks like the ones Clay has. I feel like this must be on repeat in his head since he feels like he caused Hannah’s life. In conclusion, if you loved the show as much as I did then I really suggest checking out the soundtrack. You may not want all the theme music, but some of these others are beautiful in both musical and lyrical ways.