20 TV shows with the best soundtracks and music
By Sundi Rose
She’s Gotta Have It
Spike Lee has caught the reboot fever, and has reimagined his 1986 debut film as a 10 episode Netflix series. You know anything this man does is going to be chock full of ham and cheese, but with a healthy dose of criticism, and She’s Gotta Have It is no different.
Almost everything about the show, from its star Dewanda Wise’s impeccable style and demeanor to her provocative street art to her sex positive philosophy is worth mentioning, but it’s the show’s soundtrack that really makes it remarkable.
Lee is known for pushing boundaries when it comes to content and form, but he mostly relies on tried and true classics for the story of Miss Nola Darling. The show can get creaky at times, but you’ll hang around for the gorgeous classic sounds of Mary J. Blige, Maxwell and Force MD.
The show even offers a sweet Prince tribute as its star dances around to “Raspberry Beret.” That was the highlight of the series for me. However, there’s a lot more to talk about this show when it comes to the music.
You can’t get by without mentioning the contributions by the Roots. They serve as a house band of sorts, opening the door for other powerhouses like Mos Def, Miles Davis, Roberta Flack and Lil’ Wayne.
Even when the narrative gets a little wearying, you can always rely on the music to suck you right back in. It really does have something for everyone, whether you prefer old school Spike Lee or new school Spike Lee.
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What’s your favorite TV soundtrack?