“Euphoria” Season 1 Soundtrack by Labrinth

By Megan Bormann

When “Euphoria” was released this summer on HBO, it stunned audiences with its graphic content, eye-catching visual effects, and star-studded cast. However, the true work of art was its score, developed by Labrinth. The soundtrack was released on Spotify on October 3. “Euphoria” was such a phenomenon because of its storytelling ability. By creating a varied and emotionally jarring soundtrack, the story could touch more people. 

One of the biggest songs to emerge was “All for Us,” featuring the show’s star, Zendaya. It combines hip hop with the singing of a choir. It’s featured in the final minutes of the season finale when the protagonist, Rue, makes a decision about her sobriety. “All for Us” is important because its main chorus is featured throughout the episodes. Whenever Rue faces a choice or starts taking drugs again, the audience hears the choir singing, “Oh... taking it all for us.” 

Another standout song is “When I R.I.P.”  featuring melancholy tones, Labrinth’s vocals, and beats with a variety of energy. Listeners get an inside look into other character’s minds. In the middle of the song he sings, “Feel so feel so stupid,” which listeners can interpret as a thematic feeling since the characters make pretty objectable decisions. 

One of the biggest takeaways from Labrinth’s work is the drama displayed throughout. The 26 songs go from quiet chimes and thoughtful piano solos to shocking bass drops. Listeners are carried from a calm, serene state to an eerie, fiery sense of being.