Media and Music: And On October 3rd, We Listen to the “Mean Girls” Soundtrack

Today, we celebrate “Mean Girls” in all its one hour and 37 minute glory: pink on Wednesdays, Aaron Samuels, t-shirts with holes in the chest, and, of course, the word “fetch.” 

In Media and Music, our writers take a deep dive into how movies use scores and songs to engage viewers, give new meaning and tone to some of our favorite scenes, and establish themes. It almost goes without saying, but there are spoilers abound.

Written By Sloan Wyatt

Photos courtesy of Paramount Pictures

When Tina Fey wrote the screenplay for “Mean Girls” 16 years ago, it’s safe to say that she didn’t consider the cultural significance of her words. It was just another blockbuster, early 2000s chick flick with Hollywood’s latest ‘it girl,’ Lindsay Lohan. It easily could’ve been lost amidst stacks of “She’s the Man” or “Bring it On.” But, it was so much more than a backhanded commentary on high school culture and raging hormones — it was a cultural reset. So, without further ado, here are the best songs from the film, chronologically. 

“Dancing with Myself” — The Donnas

The movie starts out strong with The Donnas’ cover of Billy Idol’s 1985 classic “Dancing with Myself.” The Donnas, a prominent 90s-era rock band based in California, set the tone for what is sure to be an angsty, dramatic film. Instrumentally, the British new-wave, dance-rock single has a rhythmic ‘80s feel that transports audiences to the John Hughes rom-com era.The lyrics perfectly encapsulate Cady’s shy, new-girl persona as she makes the transition from the rural bush country of Africa to the scrappy hallways of an American high school. She has, “nothing to lose / and there’s nothing to prove.” Cady’s a lone wolf, quite literally “dancing with herself” through North Shore High School. Her naiveté is soon shattered by the brutal reality of the American school system; it’s no surprise that her small town confidence disappears before the end of her first day. 

“God Is a DJ” — P!nk

It couldn’t be an early 2000s movie without a feature from pop-punk icon P!nk. Three years after her chart-topping album M!ssundaztood, P!nk was riding high on her newfound fame as Hollywood’s punk princess. This song is poppier than some of her other standout singles like “Stupid Girls” or “Get the Party Started,” but it still carries her signature “f-ck you” flare — because every girl has a little sugar and spice. P!nk chants, “you get what you’re given / it’s all how you use it,” foreshadowing Cady’s rise in popularity. The song goes on to preach, “don’t run from yourself, man, that’s no way to live,” advice that Cady herself should’ve listened to. Purely from a musical perspective, the song is reminiscent of Janis’ overlined eyes and ratty, bejeweled hair — both rivals to P!nk’s grunge flair. But, it also wouldn’t be shocking to hear Regina blasting it in her bedroom while parading around with her Plastics. I guess that’s just the duality of man. 

“Milkshake” — Kelis

Kelis’ hit song “Milkshake” has gained notoriety well beyond its feature on “Mean Girls.” It’s also been played in “White Chicks,” “Dodgeball,” and “Date Movie” — but, it’s a perfect fit in “Mean Girls.” We’re first introduced to the song when Cady goes to the George’s house for the first time. Regina’s younger sister is practicing a belly dancing routine in her living room to the 2003 hit. The hypersexuality shocks Cady, but it’s only scraping the surface of this home’s chaos. Let’s not forget Mrs. George’s rock-solid boobs that double as her chihuahua’s chewing toy. She’s not like other moms, she’s a cool mom… who’s milkshakes bring all the boys to the yard? 

“Overdrive” — Katy Rose

This track has teenage garage band energy — think Lindsay Lohan, “Freaky Friday.” It’s a spunky tune about a girl that’s madly in love with someone who sends her heart on “overdrive,” (ahem… Aaron Samuels). The song chronicles the feelings of hopelessly chasing after someone and going to extreme measures to get their attention. Mystery man has the singer’s mind “screwed and upside down.”

“Jingle Bell Rock” — The Plastics

Cady’s introduced to the oddly sexual side of the holidays here in the States. Scantily clad in her red leather dress and knee-high boots, Cady is officially a member of The Plastics, but she’s still very out of her element. Nevertheless, she executes the dance flawlessly, and when the music cuts out from Gretchen’s clumsy dancing, Cady carries The Plastics’ performance of one of the holidays’ most iconic classics with her (surprisingly good) vocals and Christmas cheer. Cady’s saving grace cements Regina’s jealous rivalry and her rank among The Plastics. It also begins her downward spiral into the depths of popularity and the shallow pits of high school social circles. 

“Built This Way (Slow Remix)” — Samantha Ronson

This song screams nostalgic, early 2000s energy. It’s practically an off-brand Vanessa Carlton single: slow, melodic, and radiating main character energy. Nevertheless, this song carries all of the feels. The song is generic, to say the least, which is probably one of the reasons why Ronson didn’t release much music after this single. Even so, the track’s tempo picks up towards the chorus and features a bit of a punk flare. Ronson agonizes over how every man she knows makes her feel like she’s to blame, and questions if it’s because she’s “built this way.” For once, she wants to be someone else — a feeling everyone can relate to. It’s the kind of song you’d roll the windows down to. Picture this: your freshman year crush nonchalantly strolls past you at the mall food court and sees you in your new Juicy Couture sweatsuit while pretending you’re Paris Hilton instead of just another basic suburban girl.  

“One Way or Another” — Blondie

Blondie’s 1978 hit single is the PERFECT background music to Regina’s payback. After she takes back Aaron to taunt Cady, the new plastic begins to plot her sweet revenge. Janis agrees, seeing as she too has been wronged by the queen bee. Quite frankly, everyone’s been personally victimized by Regina. Blondie says it best, “One way or another, I’m gonna find ya / I’m gonna get ya.” Somehow Regina manages to slide by the first few traps unscathed, but it’s not long before she’s disowned by the school and hit by a bus. 

“The Mathlete Rap” — Rajiv Surendra

It’s no surprise that Kevin Gnapoor, Math Enthusiast & Bad Ass MC, spit some memorable bars — even if it was only for 30 seconds. He, of course, is well aware of his rap talent and not afraid to acknowledge it. Gnapoor begins with “all you sucker MCs ain’t got nothing on me / On my grades, on my lines you can’t touch Kevin G.” This talent show addition is arguably the best track of the soundtrack, and worth some RapCaviar buzz.

There are a few other tracks peppered throughout the movie that are worth highlighting. For starters, there’s “Rip Her to Shreds” by Boomkat, a pop diva anthem with a funky flare. Musically, it is the album’s best dance track, and it’s backed up lyrically as Boomkat tears down all of the Plastics of the world, chanting “rip her to shreds.” It’s the kind of empowerment that would send even the band kids into riot. All Too Much’s “Sorry (Don’t Ask Me)” slows down the pace a little with a more 90s grunge sound. The lead singer goes on about avoiding people’s questions, halfheartedly begging “don’t ask me if you’re pretty/if you’re prettier than all of your friends/don’t ask me, don’t ask me.” The song speaks to the constant comparing and competition amongst high school girls, who can be wildly insecure. Though these few tracks aren’t as recognizable, each one makes a unique contribution to a soundtrack that reflects the relentless teenage drama and angst that defined high school, perfect for a nostalgic celebration. Each song fits together to create a memorable and fitting musical compliment to an iconic movie. 

So, grab some wine bottles, call your friends, and gather together for this special holiday. Happy Oct. 3, and remember: on Wednesdays we wear pink.