Theme Music For Big Little Lies

Have you ever found yourself completely captivated by a TV show, not just by its plot or characters, but also by the haunting melody that introduces each episode? That’s the magic of theme music—it sets the stage, establishes the mood, and lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. Think of the Game of Thrones theme, instantly transporting you to Westeros, or the upbeat Friends intro, a guaranteed mood-booster.

In the realm of prestige television, few shows have mastered the art of thematic resonance quite like Big Little Lies. More than just an introduction, the opening theme song acts as a sonic gateway, pulling us into the tangled lives of the Monterey Five. With its blend of dark undertones and seemingly carefree melody, the theme music encapsulates the show's core themes of deception, friendship, and the complex layers beneath the surface of suburban perfection. Let’s dive into the captivating world of Big Little Lies and unravel the mysteries behind its iconic theme music.

Main Subheading

Big Little Lies, based on the novel by Liane Moriarty, quickly became a cultural phenomenon with its star-studded cast, picturesque setting, and gripping narrative. The show delves into the lives of wealthy mothers in Monterey, California, whose seemingly perfect lives are shattered by a series of secrets, lies, and ultimately, a shocking act of violence. As the story unfolds, we see the facade of their idyllic community crumble, revealing the raw, vulnerable truths beneath.

The series distinguished itself through its clever use of music. Music supervisor Susan Jacobs has crafted a soundtrack that acts as a narrative tool, mirroring the emotional states of the characters and foreshadowing significant plot developments. Every song is carefully selected not just to complement the scenes but also to deepen the storytelling. The theme song, in particular, plays a crucial role in setting the tone for each episode, hinting at the drama and intrigue that awaits.

Comprehensive Overview

The theme music for Big Little Lies is "Cold Little Heart" by British soul singer Michael Kiwanuka. Released in 2016 as part of his second studio album, Love & Hate, the song is a sprawling, emotionally charged track that clocks in at nearly ten minutes in its full version. The producers selected a shorter, edited version of "Cold Little Heart" to serve as the show’s opening theme. This choice was not arbitrary; the lyrics, mood, and overall ambiance of the song align perfectly with the series’ themes.

At its core, "Cold Little Heart" is a song about vulnerability and the struggle to maintain appearances. Kiwanuka's soulful vocals, combined with the song's melancholic melody, create an atmosphere of introspection and unease. The lyrics, which touch on themes of love, hate, and the complexities of human relationships, resonate deeply with the characters' experiences in Big Little Lies. The song opens with a haunting instrumental introduction that builds slowly, drawing the listener into its emotional landscape.

The lyrics that feature most prominently in the show's intro, such as "Trouble keeps coming my way," hint at the turmoil and challenges that the characters face throughout the series. The choice to use such a poignant and introspective song as the theme is a deliberate one, signaling to the audience that this is not just another soapy drama. Instead, Big Little Lies aims to explore deeper, more complex themes about the human condition.

Susan Jacobs, the music supervisor, has spoken extensively about the importance of finding the right music to enhance the storytelling in Big Little Lies. She and director Jean-Marc Vallée worked closely to curate a soundtrack that would serve as an emotional compass for the audience. Their collaboration ensured that each song, including "Cold Little Heart," was seamlessly integrated into the narrative, adding layers of meaning and depth to the characters' journeys. The selection of Kiwanuka's song was driven by its capacity to evoke a sense of mystery and emotional weight.

The show's use of "Cold Little Heart" reflects a broader trend in television, where theme music is no longer just a catchy jingle but an integral part of the storytelling process. In the era of streaming and binge-watching, viewers are more likely to pay attention to the nuances of a show's production, including its music. As a result, show creators are investing more time and resources into crafting soundtracks that are both artistically compelling and thematically relevant. Big Little Lies exemplifies this trend, demonstrating how music can elevate a television series to new heights of artistic achievement.

Trends and Latest Developments

In recent years, the role of music in television has evolved significantly. No longer relegated to mere background noise, music now plays a central role in shaping the audience's emotional experience and enhancing the narrative. This trend is evident in a variety of popular shows, from Stranger Things with its synth-heavy score to Euphoria with its eclectic mix of pop and electronic music.

One notable development is the increasing use of pre-existing songs as theme music. While original compositions are still common, many shows are opting to license popular tracks that resonate with their target audience and align with their thematic goals. This approach allows show creators to tap into the cultural zeitgeist and leverage the emotional associations that viewers already have with certain songs.

Another trend is the rise of music supervisors as key creative players in the television industry. Music supervisors are responsible for selecting and licensing the music that appears in a show, and they often work closely with directors and writers to ensure that the music is seamlessly integrated into the narrative. Susan Jacobs' work on Big Little Lies is a prime example of the impact that a skilled music supervisor can have on a show's overall success.

The success of Big Little Lies has also influenced the way that other shows approach their music choices. Many series have followed suit by prioritizing songs that are both artistically compelling and thematically relevant. This has led to a greater emphasis on collaboration between show creators and musicians, as well as a willingness to take risks and experiment with different musical styles.

Professional insights suggest that the trend of using music as a narrative tool will continue to grow in the coming years. As viewers become more discerning and demand higher levels of artistic quality, show creators will need to find new and innovative ways to engage their audiences. Music will undoubtedly play a crucial role in this process, helping to create immersive, emotionally resonant experiences that stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

Tips and Expert Advice

Choosing the right theme music for a project, whether it's a television show, a film, or even a podcast, can be a daunting task. However, by following a few key tips, you can increase your chances of finding a song that perfectly captures the essence of your work.

First and foremost, consider the themes of your project. What are the key messages and emotions that you want to convey to your audience? The theme music should align with these themes, reinforcing the overall message and setting the tone for what's to come. In the case of Big Little Lies, "Cold Little Heart" perfectly encapsulates the show's themes of deception, vulnerability, and the hidden complexities of suburban life.

Next, think about your target audience. Who are you trying to reach with your project? The theme music should appeal to your target audience and resonate with their tastes and preferences. This doesn't necessarily mean choosing a popular song, but it does mean selecting a track that is likely to grab their attention and hold their interest.

Another important consideration is the mood of your project. Is it dark and suspenseful, or lighthearted and comedic? The theme music should reflect the overall mood of your work, creating a sense of anticipation and setting the stage for the story to unfold. "Cold Little Heart" creates a sense of unease and introspection, hinting at the drama and secrets that lie beneath the surface of Big Little Lies.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different musical styles and genres. You might be surprised at what you discover. Sometimes, the most unexpected choices can be the most effective. Susan Jacobs, the music supervisor for Big Little Lies, explored a wide range of options before settling on "Cold Little Heart."

Finally, remember that the theme music is just one piece of the puzzle. It should work in harmony with the other elements of your project, including the visuals, the dialogue, and the overall narrative. When all of these elements come together seamlessly, the result can be truly magical.

FAQ

Q: Why is music so important in Big Little Lies?

A: Music is a crucial element in Big Little Lies because it enhances the storytelling, deepens the emotional impact, and foreshadows plot developments. The carefully curated soundtrack acts as an emotional guide for the audience.

Q: Who is the music supervisor for Big Little Lies?

A: Susan Jacobs is the music supervisor for Big Little Lies. Her expertise and collaboration with director Jean-Marc Vallée were instrumental in crafting the show's iconic soundtrack.

Q: What is the significance of the song "Cold Little Heart" as the theme music?

A: "Cold Little Heart" perfectly encapsulates the show's themes of vulnerability, deception, and the hidden complexities of suburban life. Its melancholic melody and introspective lyrics create a sense of unease and mystery.

Q: How does the theme music set the tone for each episode?

A: The theme music sets the tone by creating a specific mood and atmosphere that prepares the audience for the drama and intrigue that awaits. It hints at the emotional states of the characters and foreshadows significant plot developments.

Q: Has the music from Big Little Lies influenced other TV shows?

A: Yes, the success of Big Little Lies has influenced other TV shows to prioritize music that is both artistically compelling and thematically relevant, leading to a greater emphasis on collaboration between show creators and musicians.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the theme music of Big Little Lies is far more than just an introduction; it's a carefully chosen piece that resonates deeply with the show's core themes. "Cold Little Heart" by Michael Kiwanuka sets the stage for a narrative filled with secrets, lies, and the complexities of human relationships, inviting viewers into the seemingly perfect yet deeply troubled lives of the Monterey Five. The strategic use of music, guided by Susan Jacobs' expertise, elevates the series, underscoring its emotional depth and narrative sophistication.

Now that you understand the power of theme music, how does the opening of Big Little Lies affect you? Share your thoughts in the comments below! What other shows have theme songs that resonate with you? Join the conversation and let's explore the fascinating world of television music together.