Why 'White Lotus' iconic intro music was changed in S03
What's the story
The much-awaited third season premiere of The White Lotus on Monday (IST) came with a major change—its intro music.
The new theme song is a stark departure from the melodically similar tunes of Seasons 1 and 2.
Composer Cristobal Tapia de Veer created this new sound to match the show's new setting—a resort in Thailand.
Composer's view
Tapia de Veer's critique and inspiration for new theme
In a chat with Variety, Tapia de Veer openly criticized his viral Season 2 theme song, calling it "terrible."
However, despite this self-criticism, he admitted that the Season 2 theme was an upgraded version of the basic aspects from The White Lotus Season 1 intro music.
Notably, the iconic yodeling—a hallmark of the series—was missing in the latest intro song.
Cultural adaptation
Season 3's intro music reflects Thai influence
The White Lotus's theme song changes with every season to reflect new characters and shifting locations. This continues in Season 3, with the intro music featuring elements inspired by Thai culture.
The new theme song retains its EDM structure but adds a house-like beat toward the end, giving it a more transcendental and mysterious vibe.
This change matches creator Mike White's announcement that spirituality will play a central role this season.
Unconventional muse
Tapia de Veer drew inspiration from viral cat TikToks
Tapia de Veer, who also composed the soundtrack for 2024's Babygirl, revealed the unexpected source of inspiration for The White Lotus Season 3 main title theme.
He was captivated by people harmonizing with a cat on TikTok, describing it as "the best song I heard in the last few years."
He praised these videos for their originality and spontaneity, finding them more appealing than highly produced pop music.
Sonic shift
Season 3's theme song offers a mystical experience
Although the absence of the iconic yodeling in The White Lotus Season 3 theme song might disappoint some initially, the new intro music has a more mystical and atmospheric vibe compared to the previous title tracks.
Tapia de Veer has gone-shifting from a Tiesto-inspired vibe in Season 2 to a more ethereal and psychedelic Flying Lotus space this season, promising an intriguing sonic journey for viewers through its eight-episode run.