Crafting the Sound of 'Off Campus': An Interview with Music Supervisors Amanda Krieg Thomas and Anna Romanoff

Since the premiere of Prime Video's series "Off Campus," adapted from Elle Kennedy's novels, the show's vibrant soundtrack has captivated audiences. This musical backdrop is central to the story of Hannah Wells, a passionate music student, and Garrett Graham, a rising hockey star at the fictional Briar University.

Amanda Krieg Thomas, one of the music supervisors, explained that a primary goal was to reflect Hannah's diverse musical tastes and ensure the soundtrack felt contemporary and credible for a college student with a keen ear for music. Her colleague, Anna Romanoff, emphasized that every song was carefully chosen to deepen the narrative and evoke specific emotions. The team has been thrilled by the unexpected online virality of several tracks, with fans creating numerous TikToks and even artists acknowledging their inclusion.

Discussing some of the standout tracks, Krieg Thomas and Romanoff elaborated on their choices. Billy Idol's "Dancing with Myself" and its cover by Remi Wolf were instrumental in building the connection between Hannah and Garrett, blending classic rock with modern sensibilities. The Kid Laroi's "Girls" gained viral traction due to actor Belmont Cameli's charismatic performance, chosen after extensive discussion to underscore a pivotal moment for Hannah. G Flip's "Bed on Fire" served as a versatile montage song, skillfully navigating different moods within a long sequence, from tender to more sensual, avoiding anything overly explicit. Lastly, Jennifer Lopez's "On the Floor" was a scripted inclusion that required careful negotiation with her team to ensure its use was well-received, highlighting the supervisors' commitment to respectful and impactful song placements.

The careful selection and integration of music in "Off Campus" demonstrate the power of a thoughtfully curated soundtrack. By aligning musical choices with character development and narrative arcs, the music supervisors created an immersive experience that resonated deeply with viewers, proving that music can elevate storytelling and foster unexpected connections between art and audience.