Get Out Soundtrack

When Jordan Peele’s “Get Out” hit the screens, it wasn’t just the story that left audiences on the edge of their seats. The film’s soundtrack played a monumental role in creating the suspense, horror, and dark revelations that the movie is known for. A huge shoutout to Michael Abels, who brought Peele’s vision to life with his distinct musical touch. But what makes this soundtrack so special? Let’s get into the deets.

When Jordan Peele set out to craft “Get Out”, he wasn’t just aiming for a run-of-the-mill horror flick. He sought to create a narrative that spoke volumes, and for that, he needed a score that would resonate just as profoundly. That’s where Michael Abels, a relatively unknown name in the cinematic music sphere, stepped in. Abels, previously engrossed in nurturing the next generation as a music educator in sunny California, was plucked from relative obscurity by Peele, who had been deeply impressed by one of his instrumental compositions that seamlessly meshed a medley of musical genres.

Peele had a very distinct sonic vision for “Get Out”. He desired a score that was deeply rooted in African-American musical traditions. But here’s the catch: he wanted to circumvent the inherent optimism often found in such music. He was also keen to sidestep any cliche voodoo vibes. The end product? A mesmerizing blend of Swahili chants and bluesy undertones. The haunting “Sikiliza Kwa Wahenga”, which in Swahili means “heed your ancestors”, serves as a chilling harbinger of the impending doom. It’s as if the song itself is whispering, “brace yourself, danger lurks”.

Peele once remarked how this track was essentially a musical embodiment of the film’s central message, which is to, quite literally, “Get Out”. It’s like an auditory nudge, pushing the protagonist, Chris, to wake up to the nefarious goings-on around him. And while Abels’ score is the backbone of the movie’s soundscape, Peele also infused other notable tracks to bolster the atmosphere. The film opens with Childish Gambino’s “Redbone”, setting an unsettling yet groovy tone. Additionally, classics like “Run, Rabbit, Run” by Flanagan and Allen, and the evergreen “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes make appearances, adding layers to the film’s sonic narrative.

2018 was a treat for vinyl aficionados. Waxwork Records released the film’s soundtrack on vinyl, which also featured an insightful essay by Peele, giving fans a deeper dive into his thought process.

Now, let’s shift our focus back to Michael Abels. The “Get Out” soundtrack was his cinematic scoring debut, and boy, did he leave an impression! The album was a melange of live instruments – think strings, harps, and percussion, each meticulously chosen to craft a score that was eerie yet evocative. Abels utilized African-American vocal tones to echo the harrowing tales of ancestors who faced the brunt of slavery and racial injustice. This was his nod to the past, tying it beautifully to the protagonist’s journey. Abels even integrated Swahili phrases into some tracks, especially the main title theme, adding layers of depth and meaning.

Upon its release by Back Lot Music on February 24, 2017, the score was met with resounding applause. Critics lauded its composition, the direction of vocals, and its unique musical language. It even clinched the Black Reel Award for Outstanding Original Score. For those who love the tactile experience of vinyl, there was more good news. Waxwork Records released a 180-gram double disc vinyl record of the soundtrack on July 13, 2018.

Diving into the development phase, before this cinematic adventure, Abels was deeply entrenched in the academic world of music in Santa Monica. But destiny had other plans. Peele stumbled upon Abel’s “Urban Legends” on YouTube and felt an instant connection. It was as if Abels’ fusion of classical, jazz, and blues was tailor-made for “Get Out”. Abels, too, was instantly smitten by the film’s script, labeling it “brilliant”. The duo’s collaboration sought to craft music that was bone-chilling yet reminiscent of classic horror themes.

A notable aspect of the score was the incorporation of Swahili. While it wasn’t the language of the majority of Africans who were enslaved, its musicality made it a perfect fit for the score. Abels collaborated with a choir, immersing them in Swahili chants that became pivotal in key movie scenes. The main title, “Sikiliza Kwa Wahenga”, symbolized voices of past victims of racial hate, reaching out to Chris. Abels aimed for authenticity, ensuring the music mirrored Chris’s experiences. Every instrument, every note was chosen to enhance the narrative, from the harp’s eerie tones to the unfamiliar rattle of strings.

Critics were all praise for Abels’ work. Jonathan Broxton described it as “refreshingly different”, applauding the fusion of African and Deep South vocals with traditional horror elements. Sean Wilson saw it as a groundbreaking horror score, while Mark Kermode lauded its deceptive complexity. Richard Lawson felt that Peele’s and Abels’ choices were pitch-perfect, setting just the right mood of anticipatory horror.

Alright, now that we’ve delved deep into the backstory, let’s dive into the individual tracks in the next segment and see how each one contributes to the narrative.

1. “Prologue”

A mere 20-second track, but its impact is profound. This is the auditory curtain raiser, setting the stage for what’s to come. It’s a short, eerie glimpse into the unsettling journey Chris is about to embark on.

2. “Sikiliza Kwa Wahenga (Main Title)”

Perhaps the most iconic piece from the entire score, it encapsulates the film’s essence. The Swahili chants serve as a clarion call, urging Chris to “listen to the ancestors”. The underlying tension in this track mirrors Chris’s own growing apprehension.

3. “Chris & Rose (Love Theme)”

Ah, the calm before the storm. This track paints a serene picture of Chris and Rose’s relationship. The gentle melodies are reminiscent of their seemingly idyllic love, but with a hint of the tumult that’s lurking around the corner.

4. “The Deer”

A short yet poignant piece, this track accompanies the scene where a deer’s life is tragically cut short. It’s a jarring reminder of the brutality of life and serves as a metaphor for the larger narrative.

5. “The House”

As Chris steps into Rose’s family home, this track mirrors his initial observations. The facade of normalcy, the undercurrent of unease – it’s all there, captured beautifully in this composition.

6. “Meet the Help”

This track is a sonic representation of Chris’s first interactions with the household staff. Their robotic demeanor, the disconnect – the music amplifies the feeling that something is just not right.

7. “The House Reprise”

A variation of the earlier track, this piece delves deeper into the mysteries of the house. As Chris’s stay prolongs, the mysteries intensify, and so does the music.

8. “Ice Tea”

On the surface, it’s just a drink. But in the context of the movie, it’s so much more. This track accompanies a seemingly mundane act that holds much significance in the larger scheme of things.

9. “Jeremy Enough”

Jeremy’s character is an enigma, and this track is a testament to his unpredictability. It’s short, abrupt, and leaves you with a sense of unease.

10. “Georgina’s Silhouette”

Ah, Georgina! This track, much like the character, is haunting. It mirrors her internal turmoil and the duality of her existence.

11. “Walter’s Run”

Walter’s nightly runs are eerie, and this track captures that feeling to the T. The rapid beats, the urgency – it’s all a reflection of Walter’s troubled psyche.

12. “Georgina at the Window”

Another chilling track dedicated to Georgina. Her presence by the window is an iconic scene in the movie, and the music amplifies the suspense tenfold.

13. “Hypnosis”

This is where the movie takes a deep dive into the psychological. As Chris is led into a hypnotic state, the music takes a dark, foreboding turn, echoing his descent into the sunken place.

14. “Investigations”

Chris’s quest for the truth is gaining momentum, and this track is a testament to that. The increasing tempo, the heightened sense of urgency – it’s a musical embodiment of his search for answers.

15. “Garden Party”

On the surface, it’s a genteel gathering. But underneath, there’s so much more going on. This track, with its refined yet eerie tones, captures the duality of this scene perfectly.

16. “Andre Reveal”

Andre’s sudden appearance at the garden party is both a shock and a revelation. The track captures the eeriness of his demeanor and the escalating tension as Chris realizes there’s something terribly wrong.

17. “Fist Shake”

This is a moment of defiance and realization. The music resonates with a sense of urgency and determination, reflecting Chris’s growing awareness of the grim reality around him.

18. “Blind Art Dealer”

An unsettling track that accompanies Chris’s interaction with the seemingly congenial but ultimately sinister art dealer. The music foreshadows the dark intentions lurking behind friendly facades.

19. “Georgina Weeps”

One of the most haunting moments in the film. The track captures the duality of Georgina’s existence – her trapped consciousness crying out for help while being suppressed by another entity.

20. “Get Out”

As the name suggests, it’s a dire warning. The music amplifies the urgency of the situation, mirroring Chris’s desperate need to escape the house and its sinister inhabitants.

21. “The Auction”

This track accompanies one of the film’s most chilling scenes. The calm, methodical pace of the music contrasts starkly with the horrifying implications of the auction taking place.

22. “Ukulele Walk”

A brief, light-hearted moment amidst the tension. The track provides a temporary respite, but with an underlying hint that it’s just the calm before another storm.

23. “Photographs”

As Chris stumbles upon a series of photos, the shocking truth begins to unravel. The track mirrors his disbelief and the overwhelming realization of Rose’s betrayal.

24. “Finding the Keys”

The desperation of trying to escape takes center stage here. The music is frantic, echoing Chris’s frantic search and the dawning realization of his grim situation.

25. “The Sunken Place”

One of the most iconic scenes in the movie, the track is as haunting as the visual. It captures Chris’s feeling of helplessness as he’s paralyzed, sinking deeper and deeper into a void.

26. “Rod’s Bing Search”

Rod’s determination to find his friend is palpable in this track. It’s a mix of tension and determination, reflecting his resolve to uncover the truth.

27. “Educational Video”

As Chris is subjected to a disturbing video explaining the twisted motives of his captors, the music adds to the sheer horror of the revelation.

28. “Behold the Coagula”

The eerie chant and the chilling background score amplify the horror of the cult-like ritual that Chris is about to be subjected to.

29. “Rod Calls Rose”

Suspicion meets charm in this track. As Rod confronts Rose over the phone, the music captures the tension of their conversation, hinting at the malevolence beneath Rose’s sweet facade.

30. “Mental Prep”

This track accompanies Chris’s desperate attempts to outwit his captors. The intense, suspenseful music underscores his fight for survival.

31. “Teacup TV”

The teacup’s tinkle becomes an ominous tool of control in the film. This track brings back the disturbing memories of hypnosis and the sunken place, with a tune that’s both mesmerizing and alarming, echoing the trance-like state Chris is forced into.

32. “Surgery Prep”

As the title suggests, this piece accompanies the grim preparation for Chris’s impending surgery. The music is filled with foreboding, building a sense of dread as the Armitages’ sinister plans come closer to fruition.

33. “Chris Escapes”

This track is a rollercoaster of emotions, mirroring Chris’s desperate bid for freedom. The pace is frantic, echoing his heart-pounding escape from the clutches of the Armitage family.

34. “Race for the Teacup”

A tense and high-paced track that captures the urgency of Chris’s escape. Every second counts, and the music races along with him, making the audience feel his desperation to get out.

35. “Jeremy Attacks”

This piece is intense and confrontational, mirroring the physical altercation between Chris and Jeremy. It’s a fight for survival, and the music ensures you feel every punch and every moment of suspense.

36. “Georgina Hit”

A sudden and shocking moment in the film, this track captures the unexpectedness and the aftermath of the incident. It’s brief but leaves a lasting impact, much like the scene it accompanies.

37. “Georgina Attacks”

The duality of Georgina’s character comes to the forefront in this track. It’s a chaotic blend of her suppressed rage, sadness, and the malevolent force controlling her.

38. “After the Accident”

Post the tumultuous events, this track slows down a bit, reflecting the aftermath and the eerie calm before another storm. It’s filled with suspense, leaving listeners on edge, wondering what’s next.

39. “Get Him Grandpa”

A track filled with urgency and confrontation. As the Armitage family makes one last attempt to capture Chris, the music builds up, capturing the life-and-death stakes of the moment.

40. “Walter Shoots”

This brief track is both shocking and intense. It encapsulates the surprise and horror of the moment Walter turns the gun, providing a pivotal turning point in the climax.

41. “Rose Returns”

The deceptive calmness of Rose is captured perfectly in this track. As she reveals her true nature and intentions, the music hints at the malevolence lurking beneath her facade.

42. “Situation Handled”

Relief, triumph, and a touch of melancholy are what this track brings. As the ordeal comes to an end, the music encapsulates Chris’s mixed emotions – relief at his escape and sorrow for the horrors he’s witnessed.

43. “End Titles (Montage)”

A culmination of all the themes and motifs of the film, this track plays during the credits, allowing the audience to digest the rollercoaster of emotions they’ve just experienced. It’s a blend of horror, triumph, and reflection, perfectly encapsulating the essence of “Get Out”.

Let’s not forget some of the non-score tracks that added layers to the atmosphere of “Get Out”:

44. Childish Gambino – “Redbone”

Opening with a groovy, laid-back vibe, “Redbone” by Childish Gambino sets the tone right from the start. Its catchy hook and haunting lyrics serve as a prelude to the film’s themes, making the audience sit up and pay attention. The song’s message of staying “woke” resonates deeply with the movie’s premise, acting as a warning of sorts for the protagonist, Chris.

45. Flanagan and Allen – “Run, Rabbit, Run”

Contrasting sharply with the modern tunes of “Redbone”, “Run, Rabbit, Run” by Flanagan and Allen evokes a sense of nostalgia. This vintage track from the World War II era, with its upbeat tempo and seemingly innocent lyrics, takes on a more sinister meaning within the context of the film. It serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers that lurk around every corner.

46. Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes – “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life”

Most famously known as the romantic climax song from “Dirty Dancing”, “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes makes a surprising appearance in “Get Out”. Its inclusion adds a layer of irony to the film, juxtaposing the song’s romantic connotations with the movie’s dark undertones.

And there you have it, a deep dive into the musical journey of “Get Out”. Michael Abels’s masterful composition not only complements the narrative but elevates it, making the film an unforgettable experience. Every track, every note plays a pivotal role in immersing the audience into the world of Chris and the horrors of the Armitage estate. Whether you’re a fan of the movie, a music enthusiast, or both, this soundtrack is a testament to the power of music in storytelling.

List of Soundtracks “Get Out”

1. “Prologue”
2. “Sikiliza Kwa Wahenga (Main Title)”
3. “Chris & Rose (Love Theme)”
4. “The Deer”
5. “The House”
6. “Meet the Help”
7. “The House Reprise”
8. “Ice Tea”
9. “Jeremy Enough”
10. “Georgina’s Silhouette”
11. “Walter’s Run”
12. “Georgina at the Window”
13. “Hypnosis”
14. “Investigations”
15. “Garden Party”
16. “Andre Reveal”
17. “Fist Shake”
18. “Blind Art Dealer”
19. “Georgina Weeps”
20. “Get Out”
21. “The Auction”
22. “Ukulele Walk”
23. “Photographs”
24. “Finding the Keys”
25. “The Sunken Place”
26. “Rod’s Bing Search”
27. “Educational Video”
28. “Behold the Coagula”
29. “Rod Calls Rose”
30. “Mental Prep”
31. “Teacup TV”
32. “Surgery Prep”
33. “Chris Escapes”
34. “Race for the Teacup”
35. “Jeremy Attacks”
36. “Georgina Hit”
37. “Georgina Attacks”
38. “After the Accident”
39. “Get Him Grandpa”
40. “Walter Shoots”
41. “Rose Returns”
42. “Situation Handled”
43. “End Titles (Montage)”
44. Childish Gambino – “Redbone”
45. Flanagan and Allen – “Run, Rabbit, Run”
46. Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes – “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life”