Each season of Bridgerton features a soundtrack that includes reimagined covers of popular modern songs to set the tone for the dramatic historical scenes. The show, adapted from Julia Quinn’s Regency romance series, premiered on Netflix in 2020 and has since featured orchestral covers of songs by artists like Taylor Swift, Nirvana, Rihanna, and more. Fans have recognized familiar pop hits, such as Ariana Grande’s “Thank U, Next” and Maroon 5’s “Girls Like You,” playing in the background of ballroom scenes, adding a modern twist to the period drama.
In the third season of Bridgerton, which debuted in May 2024, the soundtrack included covers of Taylor Swift’s “Snow on the Beach,” BTS’ “Dynamite,” and more. These songs were specially chosen to complement the friends-to-lovers romance between Colin and Penelope, the two romantic leads of the season. Music supervisor Justin Kamps explained that the team looks at the character dynamics and storylines of each season to select songs that reflect the themes and emotions of the romance, creating a unique musical backdrop for the unfolding drama.
Actress Nicola Coughlan, who plays Penelope, also had a hand in selecting a song for the soundtrack – Billie Eilish’s “Happier Than Ever.” She mentioned that not all song selections make it into the final cut, but her pick did, adding a personal touch to one of the grand ball scenes in episode 3. The inclusion of modern hits in a historical setting like Bridgerton serves to bridge the gap between past and present, giving the show a contemporary feel while staying true to its Regency-era roots.
The songs given the Bridgerton treatment in each season reflect a diverse range of artists and genres, showcasing a mix of pop, rock, and dance music from different time periods. In season 1, covers of songs like Taylor Swift’s “Wildest Dreams” and Shawn Mendes’ “In My Blood” added emotional depth to key moments in the storyline. Season 2 featured reimagined versions of Nirvana’s “Stay Away,” Madonna’s “Material Girl,” and Rihanna’s “Diamonds,” among others, enhancing the drama and romance of the narrative.
As the show continues to evolve and introduce new characters and storylines, the soundtrack of Bridgerton keeps up with the changing dynamics by incorporating contemporary hits that resonate with the themes and emotions of each season. The choice of songs, from Billie Eilish and BTS to Taylor Swift and Lana Del Rey, reflects the character development and relationships that unfold on screen, providing a fresh and innovative approach to period drama music. With music supervisors and cast members actively involved in the selection process, the Bridgerton soundtrack has become an integral part of the show’s identity, blending the old and the new in a harmonious blend of sound and storytelling.
