Who Sings True Blood Theme Song
The Louisiana night hangs thick and heavy, the air alive with the buzz of cicadas and the distant croak of frogs. Spanish moss drips from ancient oaks, casting long, eerie shadows that dance in the humid air. As the opening chords of a haunting melody begin to snake their way through the darkness, you know you're about to enter the world of True Blood, a world where vampires and humans collide, and where the line between good and evil blurs with every passing scene. But who is the voice behind that unforgettable theme song, the one that sets the stage for all the supernatural drama to unfold?
The iconic theme song, "Bad Things," is performed by Jace Everett. While True Blood catapulted the song into the mainstream consciousness, Everett's musical journey and the song's own history are compelling stories in their own right.
The Man Behind the Music: Jace Everett
Born in Evansville, Indiana, Jace Everett is a singer-songwriter whose music blends country, rockabilly, blues, and a touch of gospel. His sound is often described as Americana noir, a fitting label considering the dark and evocative nature of his lyrics and melodies.
Before True Blood, Everett had already established himself as a respected musician, releasing his self-titled debut album in 2005. Though commercially successful, the album didn’t achieve widespread recognition.
His musical influences are diverse, ranging from classic country artists like Johnny Cash and Merle Haggard to rock and roll legends like Elvis Presley. This eclectic mix of inspirations is evident in his distinctive vocal style and his genre-bending approach to songwriting.
"Bad Things": A Song's Journey to True Blood
"Bad Things" was originally released on Everett’s self-titled debut album in 2005. It was co-written with Josh Stevens. The song's slow, bluesy tempo and darkly suggestive lyrics perfectly capture the mood of the show, hinting at danger, temptation, and the allure of the forbidden.
The song features a prominent use of a baritone guitar, giving it a distinctive, almost mournful quality. Everett's deep, gravelly vocals add to the song's overall sense of foreboding and intrigue.
How did "Bad Things" find its way to True Blood? Music supervisor Gary Calamar chose the song after searching for something unique and suitable for the show. Calamar sought a song that evoked the Louisiana setting and captured the essence of the show’s themes.
"I wanted something that had a swampy, sexy vibe to it, and 'Bad Things' just nailed it," Calamar explained.
The use of "Bad Things" as the True Blood theme song was a stroke of genius, instantly setting the tone for the show's blend of horror, romance, and southern gothic atmosphere. From the very first episode, viewers were captivated by the song's haunting melody and its promise of dark secrets and dangerous desires.
The Impact of True Blood
The popularity of True Blood had a profound impact on Jace Everett's career. "Bad Things" experienced a resurgence in popularity, reaching the charts in several countries and gaining a dedicated following among fans of the show.
The song's success allowed Everett to reach a wider audience and tour extensively. He gained new opportunities to share his music with the world. True Blood introduced him to an audience that might otherwise never have discovered his unique sound.
Everett has expressed gratitude for the exposure he received through True Blood. He continues to create music that resonates with listeners who appreciate his authentic and evocative storytelling. The exposure from the show allowed him artistic freedom to explore his diverse musical interests.
Beyond "Bad Things": Jace Everett's Continued Journey
Despite being best known for "Bad Things," Jace Everett has continued to release albums and tour regularly. He is also a prolific songwriter, collaborating with other artists across various genres.
His later work often explores themes of love, loss, and redemption, with a raw and honest vulnerability. His albums showcase his evolution as an artist, reflecting his personal experiences and musical explorations.
Everett remains a beloved figure in the Americana music scene, appreciated for his distinctive voice and his commitment to authentic storytelling. He doesn’t shy away from exploring darker themes or mixing genres.
The Enduring Appeal of "Bad Things"
Even years after True Blood ended its run, "Bad Things" continues to be a popular and recognizable song. It evokes feelings of nostalgia for the show's fans and remains a staple on playlists and in TV soundtracks.
The song's success speaks to its timeless quality and its ability to connect with listeners on a visceral level. It captures the essence of human desires and the allure of the unknown.
The enduring appeal of “Bad Things” is a testament to the power of music supervision in film and television. It highlights how a carefully chosen song can elevate a project and create a lasting impact on audiences. Gary Calamar’s contribution cannot be overstated.
So, the next time you hear the opening chords of "Bad Things," take a moment to appreciate the artistry of Jace Everett and the serendipitous journey that brought his music to the world of True Blood. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things come from the most unexpected places, and that a little bit of darkness can sometimes illuminate the path to something truly special.
