Strong Songs

Strong TV Songs: HBO Edition [Recast]

45 snips
Oct 3, 2025
The podcast dives into the iconic music of HBO shows, celebrating unforgettable themes like 'Game of Thrones' and 'Watchmen.' Listeners are treated to a deep analysis of Ramin Djawadi's five-note motif and how it shaped genre television. Kirk highlights how Trent Reznor's atmospheric score for 'Watchmen' breaks traditional molds, while the intricate melodies of 'Succession' capture the essence of legacy. The discussion also covers the poignant music of 'The Leftovers,' revealing how these scores enhance storytelling and evoke powerful emotions.
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ADVICE

Build Identity With Motifs And Instruments

  • Use motifs and instrumentation deliberately when building a show's musical identity.
  • Strong, repeated motifs plus distinctive instruments (like English horn) make themes memorable.
INSIGHT

Small Motif, Massive Identity

  • A tiny, repeated motif can define a show's entire identity when orchestrated cleverly.
  • Ramin Djawadi nests the five-note motif across registers and harmonies to make it feel epic.
INSIGHT

Use A Single Modal Surprise

  • A single, brief modal shift can create surprise and color in a motif.
  • Djawadi briefly flips C minor to C major at the start to add an unexpected brightness.
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