Hulu's latest true crime drama series, Murdaugh: Death in the Family, premiered on October 15, 2025, with three episodes.
The series follows a wealthy South Carolina family whose world starts crashing after a brutal accident involving their son, Paul.
At the centre of the series is the Murdaugh couple, Maggie and Alex, whose life turns upside down when their son Paul is involved in a tragic boat accident. What initially begins as a story of privilege soon turns out to be a chilling tale of betrayal, lies, and greed.
Apart from the star-studded cast and picturesque locations, the soundtrack sets the true crime series apart from regular crime dramas. The music sets the tone for the season. Since only three episodes are out, only the soundtracks for those are currently available. Each track feels carefully placed, shaping the story.
Keep reading to know more.
Murdaugh: Death in the Family soundtrack
Ariel Marx, well known for her work in Black Mirror, Dying for Sex, Candy, and A Small Light, has composed the score for Murdaugh: Death in the Family. Here's a list of soundtracks used in Murdaugh: Death in the Family as of now:
Episode 1: Family Tradition
The debut episode establishes the Murdaughs' legacy and the cracks beneath their wealth:
- Is There Life Out There- Reba McEntire
- 4X4- Hardy
- I'm a Ramblin'Man- Waylon Jennings
- Whatcah Know 'Bout That- Morgan Wallen
- Strawberry Wine- Deana Carter
Episode 2: One is Missing
As the mystery deepens, the soundtrack turns stripped down and melancholic
- Fishin' in the Dark- Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
- Fragile Bird-Jim Wolfe
Episode 3: Kokomo
This episode's playlist expands beyond the Southern charm, using a more eclectic, international mix to reflect the emotional disarray and shifting settings. For instance, Kokomo (the title of the episode) adds a fleeting pop illusion.
- Fool Number One-Carlton Moody
- Kokomo- Beach Boys
- I Don't Know How, but I Am- Jimmy Lewis
- Sin Decir Adios- Neil Darmon
- Weights or Wings- Nine One One
- Make a Call- Rescoe Williamson
- Late Night Dancing-Gerhard Narholz
- Para Siempre- Oliver Bibeau, Kali J nad Scott Dudley
- Who I Am feat. I M U R- Diana Boss
- Pasion en la piscina- Lewis Martin
- Beach Bar- Martin Light
- That Old Familiar Pain-Jim Wolfe
For streaming purposes, you can hop onto Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube.
The soundtrack for the rest of the episodes is not available as of now. You can expect the soundtracks to drop simultaneously with each episode. Here's a release schedule for the upcoming episodes of Murdaugh: Death in the Family:
- Episode 4: Controlled Burn- October 22, 2025
- Episode 5: The Prince- October 29, 2025
- Episode 6: June 7th- November 5, 2025
- Episode 7- On the Road You Take to Avoid it- November 12, 2025
- Episode 8- The Man in the Glass- November 19, 2025
How does the music shape the plot?
The music in Murdaugh: Death in the Family does more than fill gaps. It builds emotions and makes the story hit harder.
Composer Ariel Marx uses sounds like a storyteller. Each episode has its own rhythm. Early on, the sounds have a Southern charm and warmth. As the tone shifts, so does the tune. The melodies turn darker, and the beats slow down. The score mixes folk, pop rock, and ambient tones.
Most true crime shows just lean on suspense, but this one leans on emotion. The soundtracks help you understand what the characters can't say, be it pride, love, or fear.
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