10 iconic songs from "Sex and the City" that defined the show

From stilettos on cobblestones to after-hours cosmos at the latest hot spot in the metropolitan, Sex and the City wasn't just about relationships, fashion, or chasing Mr. Big — it was also about the soundtrack. The cultural phenomenon recognized the power of a perfectly-placed track, and it utilized music not just to set the vibe, but to accentuate the girls’ heartaches, reinventions, and everything in between.

Whether it was Carrie Bradshaw strutting through Manhattan in her Manolos or her PR exec friend Samantha Jones exuding femme fatale in her power suit, these ten songs didn't just play in the background; they defined the Sex and the City scenes, the characters, and the era.

So, if you can’t help but wonder, here are 10 unforgettable tracks that helped shape the Sex and the City experience.

“Sex and the City Theme” – Douglas J. Cuomo

Let’s start with the obvious. That cheeky "Sex and the City theme" at the start of each episode is like a flirty wink from Carrie Bradshaw herself. Every time that shrilly, jazzy theme gets rolling, it’s an instant cue that you're in for something fabulous and unapologetically fun.

“You’ve Got the Love” – Candi Staton

First heard in the Sex and the City Season 6 finale, this soulful classic plays during one of Carrie’s most vulnerable yet hopeful moments. It’s a reminder that even amid chaos, love (self-love included) can be used as a guiding force.

“Hot Stuff” – Donna Summer

In Season 3, Episode 1, the girls attend FDNY’s annual charity event, and this disco anthem blazes the scene’s playful and flirtatious tone as burly and shirtless firefighters perform a choreographed dance.

“Traveller” (Once Upon A Time in East Mix) - Talvin Singh / Kid Loco

Nothing says “walk of shame” quite like bumping into your affair partner’s wife. This moody, gripping tune plays in Episode 15 of Season 3 as Carrie walks down the streets of New York in her iconic Christian Dior newspaper dress after getting a hard reality-check slap from Natasha.

In this Sex and the City episode, she faces the emotional fallout of her affair with Big.

“By Your Side” - Sade

Samantha Jones is a firm believer that relationships should never cost you your independence or fun. But in Season 4, Episode 13, she finally lets her guard down — and bares with Richard, the man she has been resisting feelings for.

As they share a tender poolside moment, Sade’s “By Your Side” hums softly in the background, sharing a rare glimpse of vulnerability from the ever-fierce PR queen.

“Believe” - Cher

Sex and the City is packed with flings, and Charlotte does just that in Season 3, Episode 4. Her quick romance with Stefan, the fabulous — maybe too fabulous — pastry chef, is all kinds of fun. And what better anthem to match the energy than Cher’s “Believe” bellowing in the background as they share a night together?

“I Will Survive” - Gloria Gaynor

Gloria Gaynor’s disco hit is the ultimate declaration of freedom from a toxic situation. But at the start of Season 2, Episode 13, Carrie is still way too Big-obsessed, and it’s driving all her friends crazy. It isn’t until later in the episode that she gets a “breakthrough,” marking the first real step in her journey to emotional survival.

“These Boots Are Made for Walkin” - Nancy Sinatra

When Carrie’s new gay bestie ditches her at a party in Season 4, Episode 14, she doesn’t wallow. She struts out solo. It’s then that Nancy Sinatra’s girl-boss anthem kicks in as she walks home to Aidan, to someone who actually shows up.

After all, her boots are made for walking... away from anything less.

“Doctor’s Orders” - Carol Douglas

Charlotte York is the embodiment of poise and refinement, coming from a wealthy, upper-class upbringing. But in Season 3, Episode 1, she lets loose at an out-of-town party, and after just two cocktails, no less. Her carefree moment is a refreshing sight to Miranda, Carrie, and all of us used to seeing Charlotte composed in the Sex and the City universe.

“Moon River” - Andy Williams

The Season 4 finale turns bittersweet as Carrie discovers that Big is moving overseas, but it’s also the first time he really opens up a little about his life. Without a real goodbye, he plays Andy Williams’ “Moon River” on vinyl and slow-dances with Carrie in a room full of boxes. “It’s the end of an era,” she tells her friends.