Diving headfirst into the vibrant world of the hit show Billions, we're not just talking about power plays and high-stakes finance; we're talking about the unforgettable soundtrack that perfectly complements the drama. Finding the best songs from Billions is more than just a casual search – it's a quest to uncover the musical gems that amplified the tension, celebrated the victories, and underscored the complex emotions of each episode. This curated list isn't just a random collection; it's a meticulously crafted selection of tracks, chosen for their ability to evoke the show's unique atmosphere and perfectly capture the intensity of the characters' journeys. From pulse-pounding anthems to soulful ballads, prepare to rediscover your favorite Billions moments through the lens of its captivating music. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply curious about the show's musical choices, get ready to delve into the sounds that make Billions unforgettable.
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Tubthumping | Chumbawamba | 84M+ | |
| 2. Master Of Puppets | Metallica | Master of Puppets (Remastered Deluxe Box Set) | 18M+ |
| 3. Debaser | Pixies | 11M+ | |
| 4. Everyday People |
Sly The Family Stone | 11M+ | |
| 5. Cover Me Up | Jason Isbell | Southeastern | 10M+ |
| 6. Pedestrian at Best | Courtney Barnett | 9M+ | |
| 7. War | Edwin Starr | 9M+ |
1. Tubthumping (1997)
Anthemic Chorus: Tubthumping's instantly recognizable, powerful chorus is its defining feature, making it perfect for a celebratory atmosphere. The repetitive lyrics and driving rhythm are undeniably catchy and unforgettable.
Unconventional Success: Chumbawamba, an anarcho-punk band, achieved mainstream success with this unlikely hit, demonstrating the song's broad appeal that transcends genre expectations.
Resilience Theme: The lyrics' message of perseverance ("I get knocked down, but I get up again") resonates deeply, adding emotional weight and making it a powerful choice for listeners seeking inspiration and strength.
2. Master Of Puppets
Masterful Musicianship: Metallica's instrumental prowess shines in "Master of Puppets" showcasing complex rhythms and intricate guitar work that solidified their place in metal history.
Enduring Impact: The song's iconic riff and unforgettable chorus have resonated with generations of listeners, cementing its status as a metal anthem and influencing countless artists.
Cultural Significance: Beyond its musical excellence, "Master of Puppets" achieved pop culture ubiquity, notably featuring prominently in the hit Netflix series Stranger Things, exposing it to a whole new audience.
3. Debaser (Pixies - 1989)
Sound: Debaser's signature is its jarring juxtaposition of quiet verses and explosive choruses, a dynamic that helped define the Pixies' sound and heavily influenced alternative rock.
Rhythm: The song's unconventional time signatures and driving rhythm create an irresistible, almost unsettling energy that keeps listeners hooked.
Cultural Impact: Its darkly surreal lyrics and memorable riff have cemented Debaser's place in popular culture, referenced and covered countless times, showcasing its enduring appeal.
4. Everyday People (1968)
Catchy Rhythm: Sly & The Family Stone's "Everyday People" boasts an irresistible, infectious groove that's impossible not to move to – a testament to its enduring popularity across billions of plays.
Timeless Message: The song's powerful message of unity and acceptance transcends generations, resonating with listeners from various backgrounds, contributing to its massive appeal.
Unique Sound: Its blend of funk, soul, and rock creates a distinctive sound that cemented its place in music history and continues to influence artists today, making it a worthy addition to any "best of" list.
5. Cover Me Up
Sound: A stripped-down, intimate sound showcasing Isbell's masterful guitar work and understated production, perfect for a quiet, reflective listen.
Vocals: Isbell's emotive vocals convey a raw vulnerability and honesty that resonates deeply, making it a compelling choice amongst many popular tracks.
Emotional Impact: The song's poignant lyrics about love, loss, and redemption create a powerful emotional connection, making it a memorable and impactful addition to any playlist.
6. Pedestrian at Best (Courtney Barnett - 2025)
Sound: "Pedestrian at Best" boasts Courtney Barnett's signature slacker-rock sound, a deceptively simple yet effective blend of jangly guitars and understated drums that perfectly complements her witty lyrics.
Vocals: Barnett's deadpan delivery is both humorous and insightful, making the relatable struggles of everyday life feel strangely comforting and universally appealing—a hallmark of many "best songs from billions" lists.
Lyrical Content: The sharp, observational lyrics capture the mundane frustrations and absurdities of modern life with a self-deprecating humor that resonates deeply with listeners, making it a consistently engaging listen across repeated plays.
7. War (Edwin Starr - 1970)
Sound: A powerful, driving rhythm section anchors Edwin Starr's "War" creating an undeniably impactful sonic landscape that reflects the song's serious subject matter.
Vocals: Starr's impassioned vocals deliver a raw, emotionally charged performance, conveying the urgency and despair of conflict with remarkable intensity.
Cultural Impact: Its potent anti-war message resonated deeply with listeners, securing "War's" place as a timeless protest anthem and a significant piece of musical history, further amplified by its enduring popularity across generations.
8. Harvester of Sorrow (Metallica)
Sound: Harvester of Sorrow's iconic opening riff, a galloping, minor-key masterpiece, instantly grabs your attention and sets a dark, brooding tone that resonates powerfully even after billions of listens.
Emotional Impact: The song's masterful blend of aggression and melancholy creates an unforgettable emotional experience, perfectly capturing feelings of despair and anger that many listeners deeply connect with.
Vocal Performance: James Hetfield's raw, emotionally charged vocals are a cornerstone of the song's power, conveying the lyrical themes with a visceral intensity that elevates the overall experience beyond simple technical proficiency.
9. Gotta Serve Somebody (Bob Dylan)
Sound: "Gotta Serve Somebody" boasts Dylan's signature gravelly vocals, underpinned by a gospel-tinged arrangement that's both powerful and subtly nuanced. The driving rhythm and layered instrumentation create an unforgettable sonic experience.
Emotional Impact: The song's message of spiritual accountability resonates deeply, touching on themes of faith and the search for meaning. Its raw honesty and powerful delivery make it a truly moving listening experience, hitting hard with its powerful message.
Cultural Impact: Its inclusion on a widely acclaimed album solidified Dylan's status as a musical icon and further cemented his exploration of faith in his extensive discography, influencing countless other artists.
10. Ladytron (Roxy Music - 1972)
Sound: Ladytron showcases Roxy Music's signature blend of art rock and glam, featuring a driving, hypnotic bassline and shimmering synthesizers that create a uniquely captivating soundscape.
Vocals: Bryan Ferry's smooth, sophisticated vocals are a standout, delivering lyrics that are both enigmatic and alluring, perfectly complementing the song's otherworldly atmosphere.
Emotional Impact: The song's blend of cool detachment and underlying tension creates a compelling emotional experience, leaving a lasting impression and highlighting the band's innovative approach to pop.
11House Of Bricks
Despot
2012
12Get Up And Get Down
The Dramatics
1972
13Jump Up
Major Lazer
2009
14Waiting Around to Die
Townes Van Zandt
1969
15Dimed Out
Titus Andronicus
2015
16The Ledge
The Replacements
1987
17Crazy
Pylon
1981
18High Tiding
Nick Waterhouse
2014
19Quite Contrary
Parker Millsap
2016