Soundtracks to Summer: Actors Reveal the Music Fueling Their Characters & Personal Vibes
The summer television season is heating up, and with it comes a deeper connection to the characters we’re investing in. Beyond compelling storylines and captivating performances, music frequently enough plays a crucial role in shaping a show’s atmosphere and revealing character depth. We spoke with stars from two of this summer’s most anticipated series – Ironheart and Duster – to uncover the songs that resonate with them personally, and the tunes that perfectly encapsulate the essence of their on-screen personas.
lyric Ross: Finding Presence and Power in the Soundtrack of Life
Lyric Ross,who portrays the dynamic character of N.A.T.A.L.I.E. in Ironheart, shared a curated selection of songs that speak to her own journey and the inner world of her character. Ross emphasizes the importance of music as a grounding force, a reminder to appreciate the present moment amidst the whirlwind of life.
“Music is so integral to how I navigate the world,” Ross explains. “It’s about acknowledging how far you’ve come and celebrating the now.” She highlighted Destin Conrad’s “So Nice” as a track that embodies this sentiment, offering a calming and reflective vibe.
Beyond relaxation, Ross also leans into music that inspires action and self-belief. She’s a devoted fan of Smino,particularly drawn to the lyric “Sometimes,you gotta move when the Spirit say so” from “No L’s.” “That line really hits home,” she says. “It’s a reminder to trust your intuition and follow your inner guidance, even when it feels uncertain.”
To inject a dose of pure energy, Ross turns to the infectious rhythms of Chicago Juke music, specifically DJ Rashad’s “Juke Dat Juke Dat.” “You simply can’t stay still when you here that beat,” she laughs. Juke, a fast-paced subgenre of house music originating in Chicago, has seen a resurgence in popularity, with over 2.5 million streams on Spotify for DJ Rashad alone in the past year.
N.A.T.A.L.I.E.’s Anthem: Confidence and Fearlessness
When considering the perfect song to represent N.A.T.A.L.I.E.’s playlist, Ross instantly chose Doechii’s “Nissan Altima.” “This song just is her,” Ross states. “it’s all about owning your power, embracing your fabulousness, and knowing your worth. N.A.T.A.L.I.E. is incredibly self-assured, and this track perfectly captures that energy.”
Benjamin Charles Watson: Nostalgia, Energy, and the Allure of Falling Hard
Benjamin Charles Watson, starring in the gripping series Duster, offered a glimpse into his own musical landscape, revealing a blend of classic vibes and contemporary energy. Watson’s selections reflect a journey from his childhood roots to his current life in the vibrant city of Los Angeles.
He kicked off his playlist with 2Pac feat.Dr. Dre’s “California Love,” a quintessential summer anthem. “It’s a must-play when cruising around LA,” Watson shares. “The energy is infectious, and it just makes you feel alive.” The song, released in 1995, remains a staple on summer playlists, consistently ranking among the most streamed tracks of the season.
Watson’s connection to music runs deep, rooted in his upbringing in Jamaica. He fondly recalled listening to Bob Marley’s “Three Little birds” with his father. “that song is pure nostalgia for me,” he says. “It brings back such warm memories of spending time with my dad and experiencing the beauty of Jamaica.” Bob Marley’s music continues to resonate globally, with his albums selling over 75 million records worldwide.
Royce’s Romantic Spell: A Song of Intense Devotion
When tasked with selecting a song for his character, Royce, watson chose Nina Simone’s “I put a Spell on You.” “Royce is someone who falls deeply and completely in love,” Watson explains. “He’s all-in, almost as if he’s under a spell. Nina Simone’s rendition of this song perfectly captures that feeling of being utterly captivated and consumed by another person.” The song’s haunting melody and Simone’s powerful vocals evoke a sense of vulnerability and intense longing, mirroring Royce’s passionate nature.
don’t miss the season finales! Ironheart‘s concluding three episodes premiere on July 1st on Disney+, while the Duster season finale airs on July 3rd on Apple TV+. These shows promise not only compelling narratives but also a rich sonic backdrop that enhances the viewing experience.Courtney Taylor, Ballard
[Image of Courtney Taylor – Darshae Spells]
For those moments when you crave a nighttime drive with the windows down and a mellow soundtrack to cap off a perfect summer day, Leon Thomas’s “Vibes Don’t Lie” is the perfect choice. It’s hard not to want to hear that voice during a relaxing commute home. Another track embodying pure summer energy is Justine Skye and Kaytranada’s “Oh Lala.” Kaytranada consistently delivers infectious beats, and this song has been a constant favorite since its release, instantly evoking the atmosphere of a vibrant summer day party.
My character, Samira Parker, is driven by a strong sense of justice, which is perfectly reflected in Rico Nasty’s powerful anthem, “Son of a gun.”
Ballard premieres on July 9th on Prime Video.
Mekonn Knife, Zombies 4
[Image of Mekonn Knife – Carrie McLeod]
Burner Boy’s “Last Last” is a song that manages to be both laid-back and emotionally resonant. It explores themes of heartbreak, but with an upbeat energy that invites you to sing along with friends. The song’s captivating beat and memorable hook make it ideal for late-night gatherings and good times. I also find myself drawn to Desi Valentine’s “Fate don’t Know you,” which possesses a calming quality that brings a sense of peace and relaxation. It conjures images of rainy day drives,making it a perfect listen even outside of the summer months.
For my character, Vargas, Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright” from To Pimp A Butterfly holds particular meaning. The line “we gon’ be alright” serves as a powerful reminder to persevere, especially during challenging times. Vargas is fiercely loyal to his friends and deeply committed to fighting for what he believes in, and this song encapsulates his unwavering spirit.
Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires premieres July 10th on Disney Channel and July 11th on Disney+.