The two-episode premiere featured an impressive and diverse lineup of tracks!
From the very first moments that Dexter: Resurrection premiered on Friday, July 11, it was clear this wasn’t just a thrilling continuation of the Dexter saga — it was also a carefully curated musical experience. The new series kicks off with a bang, delivering not only gripping storytelling but also a soundtrack packed with licensed songs that enhance every intense, emotional, or suspenseful moment.
While the original Dexter series occasionally used licensed music, it was never a major focus. That changed with Dexter: New Blood and the prequel series Dexter: Original Sin, both of which leaned more heavily into music to set tone and atmosphere. In particular, Original Sin used tracks from the late ‘80s and early ‘90s to anchor viewers in its 1991 timeline — a strategy that paid off by immersing fans more deeply into the world.
Now, Dexter: Resurrection picks up the story in March 2022, placing Dexter and his surviving allies (or enemies) in modern-day New York City. This contemporary setting gives the show's music supervisors a wide-ranging palette of genres and eras to choose from — and they don’t disappoint. From indie rock and punk classics to haunting scores and modern hits, the soundtrack is as diverse as it is effective.
What truly delighted us was discovering that the new series includes some of the iconic Dexter tracks from the original show, composed by the late, incredibly talented Daniel Licht. This is a wonderful development — not only does it bring a powerful wave of nostalgia for longtime fans, but it also pays a heartfelt tribute to Licht’s remarkable legacy. Considering that Dexter: New Blood featured very few of his compositions, this return to Licht’s signature sound feels like a special gift to the series’ devoted audience.
We’ve done the work for you — below is a complete list of every song featured in Dexter: Resurrection episodes 1 and 2, including the scenes they appear in. Whether you're here to discover a new favorite track or just relive the most powerful musical moments, we’ve got you covered.
Season 1, Episode 1: “A Beating Heart…” – Soundtrack
1. “Master of My Craft” – Parquet Courts (2012)
Scene: Harrison wakes up and gets ready for another day working at the Empire Hotel.
2. “This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)” – Talking Heads (1983)
Scene: A montage showing Harrison’s daily life as a bellhop, interacting with guests and coworkers at the hotel.
3. “The Big Bad Wolf” – The Heavy (2012)
Scene: Harrison cleans up after murdering Ryan in the hotel room.
4. “Bad Decisions” – The Strokes (2020)
Scene: Harrison dismembers Ryan’s body and continues cleaning in the hotel’s kitchen.
5. “Deborah Loves Rudy / The House” – Daniel Licht (2006)
Scene: Dexter tells Teddy he won’t press charges against the Iron Lake PD.
6. “Stayin’ Alive” – Bee Gees (1977)
Scene: Detective Claudette Wallace listens to this classic track through her headphones while investigating suspicious garbage bags.
7. “Red Right Hand” – Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds (1994)
Scene: Introduction of Uma Thurman’s character, Charley, as she breaks into Ronald Schmidt’s apartment to uncover his secrets and invite him to Leon Prater’s serial killer gathering.
8. “Blitzkrieg Bop” – Ramones (1976)
Scene: Dexter’s dramatic arrival in New York City.
9. “Courting the Night” – Daniel Licht (2006)
Scene: Dexter finds Harrison after finally reaching NYC.
Season 1, Episode 2: “Camera Shy” – Soundtrack
1. “War Pigs” – Black Sabbath (1970)
Scene: Ronald Schmidt searches for a ride using UrCar, hunting for his next victim.
2. “cascade” – half-life souvenir (2024)
Scene: Plays on the UrCar’s radio while Ronald rides inside.
3. “The Saint of Lost Causes” – Justin Townes Earle (2019)
Scene: Dexter investigates Ryan Foster’s room at the Empire Hotel, following the murder Harrison committed.
4. “The Money” – Key Man
Scene: Harrison takes a night drive through the city with his friend Lance Thomas.
Final Thoughts
Music has always played a subtle yet powerful role in the Dexter universe, but Resurrection raises the bar. From gritty rock anthems to brooding ballads, every track seems handpicked to reflect the characters' emotions and the story's shifting tone.
Which song from the list above stood out to you the most? Are there any tracks or artists you hope to hear in upcoming episodes of Dexter: Resurrection? Let us know in the comments!