The Expanding Role of Music in Primetime: Emmys Signal a New Era for Composers
The 2025 Creative Arts Emmys weren’t just another awards show; they were a bellwether. Christopher Lennertz’s win for “Let’s Put the Christ Back in Christmas” from The Boys – a darkly comedic superhero series – alongside nominations for artists like Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar, signals a dramatic shift in how television recognizes and utilizes music. For the first time, the lines between traditional film scoring and contemporary music artistry are blurring, and the implications for the future of television are profound.
Beyond the Score: Why Original Songs are Taking Center Stage
Historically, Emmy recognition for music focused heavily on original score and composition. Theodore Shapiro’s win for Severance and Mick Giacchino’s for The Penguin demonstrate that tradition continues. However, Lennertz’s victory for an original song – and the sheer volume of music superstars nominated – points to a growing demand for music that isn’t just atmospheric, but narratively integral. Shows are increasingly using original songs to deepen emotional resonance, comment on themes, and even drive plot points. This isn’t simply about adding a catchy tune; it’s about crafting musical moments that are as crucial to the storytelling as dialogue or cinematography.
The Rise of the ‘Musical Moment’ and its Impact on Engagement
Think of the viral success of “Running Up That Hill” in Stranger Things. While not an original composition for the show, it demonstrated the power of a song to catapult a series into the cultural zeitgeist. Networks are actively seeking to replicate that effect, investing in original music designed for shareability and emotional impact. This trend is fueled by the fragmented media landscape; a memorable musical moment can cut through the noise and generate organic buzz on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The Emmy nominations reflect this shift, recognizing not just the artistry of the music itself, but its effectiveness in driving audience engagement.
From Super Bowl Halftime to Small Screen: The Convergence of Music and Television
Kendrick Lamar’s recent Emmy win for his Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show music direction further underscores this convergence. The scale and production value of these events are increasingly mirroring those of high-end television productions. Artists are no longer simply performing *on* television; they are collaborating with showrunners and producers to create immersive, multi-sensory experiences. This collaboration extends beyond performance, encompassing songwriting, music supervision, and even the integration of music into marketing campaigns. Billboard reports on the growing trend of artists taking on more creative control in these cross-platform projects.
The Democratization of Music Production and its Effect on Television
Advances in music technology have also played a role. The accessibility of high-quality recording equipment and software has lowered the barrier to entry for aspiring composers and songwriters. This democratization of music production means that showrunners have access to a wider pool of talent, leading to more diverse and innovative musical scores and songs. We’re likely to see more independent artists and emerging composers breaking into the television industry, bringing fresh perspectives and sounds.
What’s Next? Predictive Trends in Television Music
The Emmys suggest a future where music is no longer an afterthought in television production, but a core component of the creative process. Expect to see:
- Increased Collaboration: More partnerships between established musicians and television creators.
- Genre Blending: A move away from traditional orchestral scores towards more hybrid styles incorporating pop, hip-hop, and electronic music.
- Interactive Music Experiences: The integration of music into interactive television formats, allowing viewers to influence the soundtrack or even participate in the creation of music.
- AI-Assisted Composition: While unlikely to replace human composers entirely, AI tools will likely be used to assist with tasks like orchestration and sound design.
The recognition of artists like Christopher Lennertz at the Emmys isn’t just a celebration of individual achievement; it’s a signpost pointing towards a more musically vibrant and innovative future for television. The competition is heating up, and the stakes are higher than ever. What are your predictions for the future of music in television? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
