Composer-songwriter Gavin Brivik and musician Andrew Bird created "Need Someone," the first original song written for the HBO Max series "The Pitt" [1, 2].
This collaboration marks a shift in the show's musical approach by introducing original compositions to heighten the emotional stakes of the narrative. The integration of a bespoke track suggests a more tailored sonic identity for the series as it progresses into its second season.
The song appears in episode six of season two [1, 2]. It is specifically timed to play during a scene featuring the death of Louie, a recurring patient played by actor Ernest Harden Jr. [1, 2].
Brivik and Bird pitched the song to the production to provide a specific emotional resonance for the character's exit. The track was later demonstrated during a panel presentation to showcase how the music interacts with the onscreen drama [1, 2].
While the series has previously relied on existing music, the creation of "Need Someone" establishes a precedent for original songwriting within the show. The song serves as a musical anchor for one of the season's most significant character moments [1, 2].
“"Need Someone" is the first original song for the series.”
The introduction of original music in 'The Pitt' indicates a move toward more intentional atmospheric storytelling. By commissioning a specific track for a recurring character's death, the production is leveraging the emotional precision of original songwriting to deepen viewer investment in the show's medical drama.
