The Soundtrack of Heartbreak: How “Mayonaise” Defined a Pivotal Moment in “The Summer I Turned Pretty”
The power of music to amplify emotion is undeniable, and few shows demonstrate this better than “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” Season 2 delivered a especially poignant example of this, utilizing The Smashing Pumpkins‘ “Mayonaise” to underscore a heartbreaking breakup between Belly and Conrad. Let’s delve into how this song choice wasn’t just a backdrop, but a crucial element in shaping a pivotal scene.
A Scene Built on Tension and Yearning
Leading up to the prom night confrontation, Conrad had been emotionally unavailable, grappling with his mother’s declining health. This distance understandably left Belly feeling insecure and questioning their connection.Consequently, the prom became the stage for their unraveling, beginning with a forgotten corsage and a promise from Conrad to not stay the night.
As tension mounted, the iconic intro of “Mayonaise” began to play, subtly at first. The song’s melancholic guitar riff mirrored the growing unease between the two characters. It wasn’t a random selection; the song’s core themes of yearning and intensity resonated perfectly with the scene’s emotional weight.
Why ”Mayonaise” Resonated So Deeply
The choice of “Mayonaise” wasn’t immediate. Initially, another classic was considered: Mazzy Star’s “Fade Into You.” However, the song had recently appeared in another prominent project, raising concerns about originality.
Selecting a song that feels fresh and uniquely tied to your story is vital. A truly impactful soundtrack moment needs to stand alone, untainted by prior associations. Ultimately, ”Mayonaise” offered the perfect blend of romanticism and heartache.
The Breakup Unfolds to a Brooding Beat
Belly and Conrad attempted to salvage the night with a dance, but the song’s escalating energy only amplified their internal struggles. Thay retreated from the dance floor, seeking a private space to confront their issues.
Despite their efforts to escape the music,the brooding sound of “Mayonaise” still permeated the air. This sonic presence underscored the inevitability of their separation. The couple ultimately decided to end their relationship, the song serving as a haunting reminder of what they were losing.
Season 3 and the Evolving Soundtrack
“The Summer I Turned Pretty” continues to leverage music effectively in its third season. New episodes, which premiered on July 16th, feature a diverse soundtrack including “Dreams” by The Cranberries, Roan’s “Hot To Go,” and Taylor Swift’s “You’re Losing Me.”
The show’s musical landscape is evolving alongside its characters, becoming a character in its own right. You can even gain deeper insight into the soundtrack choices through a new playlist available on Amazon Music.
Dive Deeper into the Music of Cousins Beach
This track-by-track playlist offers commentary on the songs featured in season 3. It will be updated throughout the season, culminating with the finale on september 17th.
The thoughtful curation of music in “The Summer I Turned Pretty” demonstrates a deep understanding of how sound can elevate storytelling. Its a testament to the power of a well-chosen song to not just accompany a scene, but to become the scene.
Ultimately, the show’s success lies in its ability to tap into universal emotions through relatable characters and a soundtrack that speaks directly to your heart.
