Music Supervisor Jen Malone Strengthens Cultural Impact Through Iconic Soundtracks for ‘Euphoria,’ ‘Wednesday,’ and ‘Love Story’
Music supervisor Jen Malone has emerged as a pivotal figure in shaping the soundtracks of some of the most culturally significant television shows in recent years. After gaining recognition for her work on Atlanta, Malone transitioned to Euphoria, a series that propelled songs featured in its episodes to streaming increases of up to 10,000%.
Growth and Challenges in Music Supervision
With her expanding portfolio, Malone founded her own music supervision company, Black and White Music, which comprises an all-female team. This firm has been instrumental in clearing music for various popular shows, including Beef, Love Story, Will Trent, Umbrella Academy, and Wednesday. Despite her success, Malone acknowledges the myriad challenges facing the film and television industry, particularly those exacerbated by the pandemic and ongoing strikes from SAG-AFTRA and WGA.
As Paramount navigates its acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, Malone has been vocal about the evolving landscape of the industry. She highlights the importance of music supervision, which she describes as one of the most misunderstood roles in the entertainment sector.
The Role of Music Supervisors
Malone emphasizes that music supervisors are involved from pre-production through to the final delivery of episodes. They are tasked with selecting and clearing music for various scenes, including performances and background scores, which requires meticulous planning and coordination.
The financial aspect of music supervision remains a significant concern. Malone notes that while her current projects have producers who prioritize music budgets, many productions often overlook the rising costs of songs, which have increased substantially over the past decade.
The Impact of the Pandemic and Market Trends
The pandemic has led to a notable shift in the industry, with Malone observing that many artists who were previously hesitant to license their music for television are now more open to it. This change reflects a broader trend where artists recognize the potential of sync placements to reach new audiences.
Malone recounts her experience clearing high-profile songs, such as “Hold Up” by Beyoncé, which involved navigating complex licensing agreements due to multiple writers and producers. She underscores the importance of collaboration with showrunners to secure these tracks, which can significantly enhance a show’s cultural impact.
Iconic Soundtracks and Cultural Moments
Malone’s work on Euphoria and Wednesday has led to viral moments that have revitalized interest in classic tracks. The placement of “Goo Goo Muck” by The Cramps in Wednesday exemplifies how a well-placed song can resonate with audiences and drive streaming numbers.
Her approach to defining characters through music is nuanced, particularly when working with real-life figures in projects like Love Story, which chronicles the relationship between John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette. Malone focuses on the broader context of the characters’ lives rather than confining them to specific playlists.
Future Endeavors
As Euphoria enters its third season, Malone has stepped back from the project, allowing new talent to take the reins. She expresses pride in her contributions to the show, which she believes has significantly impacted her career.
Currently, Malone is collaborating with director Lee Sung Jin on the second season of Beef, where she continues to explore the intersection of music and storytelling. Her enthusiasm for music supervision remains strong, as she navigates the complexities of the industry while advocating for the importance of music in visual media.
For further insights into Malone’s perspective on the evolving music supervision landscape, visit Billboard.
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Published on 2026-05-20 20:06:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk