The final season of Prime Video’s hit series The Summer I Turned Pretty has left fans with not only an emotional conclusion but also a soundtrack that perfectly captures every moment. With over 70 tracks featured throughout the season, the music supervisors blended contemporary hits with timeless classics to mirror the show’s themes of love, growth, and heartbreak. From Taylor Swift’s emotional vault tracks to Billie Eilish’s haunting melodies, the soundtrack has become a character in its own right. Here are the 11 best songs that defined the third and final season.
Taylor Swift’s “You’re Losing Me” Sets the Tone
The Season 3 premiere ends with a devastating revelation: Belly (played by Lola Tung) discovers her boyfriend Jeremiah (played by Gavin Casalegno) cheated on her. As the scene unfolds, Taylor Swift’s previously unreleased vault track “You’re Losing Me” plays in the background. The song’s lyrics about a relationship on life support perfectly match Belly’s heartbreak and confusion. This marked one of 12 Taylor Swift songs used in the season, making her the musical backbone of the series.
Olivia Rodrigo’s “lacy” Captures Heartbreak
In Episode 2, titled “Last Christmas,” Belly struggles with the aftermath of Jeremiah’s betrayal. Olivia Rodrigo’s “lacy” underscores a flashback scene where Belly reflects on her fractured relationship. The song’s melancholic tone and introspective lyrics highlight Belly’s feelings of insecurity and sadness. Rodrigo’s music has been a staple in the series, and this placement reinforces the show’s ability to use contemporary pop to enhance emotional storytelling.
Billie Eilish’s “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” for Emotional Depth
Episode 3, “Last Supper,” features Billie Eilish’s “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” during a tense family dinner where Belly and Jeremiah announce their engagement. The song’s uplifting yet bittersweet melody contrasts with the mixed reactions from their families, especially Conrad (played by Christopher Briney). Eilish’s track adds layers to the scene, emphasizing the complexity of Belly’s decisions and the underlying tensions.
Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide” for a Bittersweet Moment
In Episode 4, “Last Stand,” Belly celebrates her birthday while facing growing conflicts with her mother, Laurel. The classic Fleetwood Mac song “Landslide” plays as Belly tries on wedding dresses, symbolizing the weight of her choices and the passage of time. The track’s reflective lyrics about change and self-discovery resonate deeply with Belly’s journey into adulthood.
Harry Styles’ “Cherry” Enhances Romantic Tension
Episode 5, “Last Dance,” focuses on Belly and Conrad spending time together during Fourth of July weekend. Harry Styles’ “Cherry” underscores a moment where their unresolved feelings resurface. The song’s nostalgic and wistful tone mirrors their lingering connection, making it a standout moment for Team Conrad fans. The soundtrack here blends modern pop with emotional nuance.
Taylor Swift’s “False God” Returns for a Steamy Scene
Episode 6, “Last Name,” sees the return of Taylor Swift’s “False God” during a charged moment between Belly and Conrad. As Belly tends to Conrad’s surf injury, the song’s sultry saxophone and intimate lyrics heighten the tension between them. This callback to a similar scene in Season 2 reinforces the cyclical nature of their relationship.
Chappell Roan’s “Good Luck, Babe!” for a Party Vibe
The Season 3 premiere also features Chappell Roan’s upbeat track “Good Luck, Babe!” during a college party scene. The song’s infectious energy and playful lyrics contrast with the drama unfolding among the characters. Roan’s music appears multiple times in the season, adding a youthful and vibrant layer to the soundtrack.
Gracie Abrams and Taylor Swift’s “us” for Emotional Weight
Episode 8, “Last Kiss,” features “us,” a collaboration between Gracie Abrams and Taylor Swift, during a pivotal moment between Belly and Jeremiah. The song plays as they confront the unresolved issues in their relationship, with lyrics that capture the pain of letting go. Abrams’ delicate vocals combined with Swift’s storytelling make this one of the season’s most memorable musical moments.
Phoebe Bridgers’ “Friday I’m in Love” for a Touching Cover
The same episode includes Phoebe Bridgers’ cover of “Friday I’m in Love” by The Cure. Bridgers’ stripped-down, melancholic version adds depth to a scene where Belly reflects on her past with Conrad. The cover contrasts with the original’s upbeat tone, emphasizing the characters’ emotional struggles.
Benson Boone’s “Forever and a Day” for a Hopeful Moment
Episode 2 ends with Benson Boone’s “Forever and a Day” as Jeremiah proposes to Belly outside the hospital. The song’s soaring vocals and romantic lyrics create a sense of hope, even as the couple faces uncertainty. Boone’s track provides a counterbalance to the season’s heavier moments.
Taylor Swift’s “the 1” for the Finale
The season finale, Episode 10, features Taylor Swift’s “the 1” as Belly looks back on her journey with Conrad and Jeremiah. The song’s reflective lyrics about lost love and alternate endings perfectly encapsulate the show’s themes. Swift’s folklore track serves as a poignant farewell to the series.
The soundtrack for The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 not only complemented the narrative but also became a talking point for fans. From Taylor Swift’s emotional contributions to Billie Eilish’s atmospheric tracks, the music elevated the show’s storytelling. As one fan noted, the playlist feels like a curated journey through the characters’ highs and lows.
Also Read: Jenny Han Filmed Fake Paris Scenes to Hide The Summer I Turned Pretty Ending
