Classes are back in session at Essex College, which means we have a whole new soundtrack to vibe out to! Season 3 of The Sex Lives of College Girls premiered on Nov. 21, and our favorite foursome — Leighton, Whitney, Bella, and Kimberly — are diving headfirst into the chaos and growth of their sophomore year. As someone who loves to envision herself in scenes that reflect my own life, I can’t get enough of those moments when a show perfectly syncs music with emotion. HBO’s hit series knows just how to nail that pairing, capturing each scene with songs that resonate long after the episode ends.
Co-created by Mindy Kaling and Justin Noble, The Sex Lives of College Girls is a coming-of-age comedy starring Pauline Chalamet, Amrit Kaur, Reneé Rapp, and Alyah Chanelle Scott as four seemingly mismatched suite mates who face the hidden struggles of college life together. Season 2 left viewers with friendship breakups and uncertain futures, but after a summer of growth (and maybe a little chaos), the girls are bringing back all they’ve learned. Season 3 promises fresh twists, new challenges, and plenty of glow-ups.
As we watch the girls dive into a new year at college, it’ll be intriguing to see how they handle this year’s challenges after last season’s blowouts — and how they’ll navigate their sex lives in the process. Personally, as a twenty-something, I know just how hard it is to juggle finding yourself, being a good friend, and keeping up with work, school, and life. Season 3’s playlist for The Sex Lives of College Girls hits all these layers perfectly.
Trust me, you’ll want every song on repeat to feel all the vibes the core four are bringing to campus this year, so let’s dive into each track episode by episode. Spoiler Warning: Spoilers for The Sex Lives Of College Girls Season 3 follow.
Episode 1: “Welcome Back to Essex”
“I Am Woman” by Emmy Meli
As “I Am Woman” plays in the background, Bela bids farewell to the John Essex statue at the heart of campus. In her signature comedic relief style, she reflects on the selflessness she believes she demonstrated over the past semester, blending humor and heartfelt emotion in a memorable goodbye. This scene sets the tone for her journey of growth and self-discovery.
“BET” by METTE
Reneé Rapp, AKA Leighton, is on a car ride back to Essex’s campus with her two favorite people: her dad and her girlfriend, Alicia. While leaving their camping trip that turned into glamping, the vibrant song “BET” by Mette fills the air. This upbeat track sets the tone for the excitement and anticipation of a new beginning. It signifies the joy of being surrounded by loved ones and the thrill of embarking on a fresh chapter, perfectly encapsulating Leighton’s semester that lies ahead.
“For Keeps” by Preston Pablo
On move-in day, Whitney takes a big leap into her new life at the Kappa house, but first, her mom has a special request. She insists on capturing the moment with a TikTok dance trend set to the catchy song “For Keeps.” With excitement and a hint of nervousness, Whitney joins in, blending the thrill of a fresh start with a fun family tradition.
“SO MUCH” by Louis La Roche
Before Whitney even steps foot into the Kappa house, she and her mom are captivated by the undeniable charm of a handsome guy on campus. As everything unfolds in slow motion, the song “SO MUCH” perfectly captures this enchanting moment. Could this eye-catching stranger be one of Whitney’s potential love interests this season?
“Don’t Stop (Gimmie Some)” by Hotline
“Don’t Stop (Gimme Some)” plays as Whitney has her first soccer team scrimmage of the season, and she’s letting the freshmen have it, or so she thought. This song shows the intense rage and uncertainty of her game.
“Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl” by Chappell Roan
Get ready to feel the energy as “Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl” sets the perfect vibe for iconic dorm pre-games. It’s the first day back on campus, and the divided girl gang—Leighton, Bela, and Kimberly—are pregaming in their new dorm. With the beat song pulsing in the background, the atmosphere is electric, capturing the thrill of friendship and the excitement of a new semester.
“Be My Lover” by La Bouche
“Be My Lover” plays during the girls’ show-stopping entrance at the ‘90s-themed frat party, where they’re debuting their sophomore glow-up. Leighton stands out in an all-black look, sending a strong message to her girlfriend, Alicia, for not giving her the attention she deserves. This is a great song choice for capturing how it feels to walk into a party when you know you’re on point!
“Believe” by Cher
As Alicia finally enters the party and locks eyes with Leighton after their big blow-up, the scene shifts into slow motion. Leighton bats her eyes, and the song “Believe” perfectly captures the intensity of this moment, even from across the room.
“ Glow” by Digitalism
As the episode comes to a close, Leighton expresses her frustration to her teacher about the bus trips to attend her math class not working out. She faces a significant decision and a moment of realization: This could be a make-or-break moment for her new semester at Essex. As “Glow” plays brilliantly in the background, we gain insight into what’s going on in Leighton’s head.
Episode 2 “Lila by Lila”
“Gravity” by Posh Chocolates
When Whitney steps into her first class of the semester,, a mysterious new classmate has his eyes instantly set on her.. As the lesson unfolds, the emotions of a budding crush come alive to the tune of “Gravity,” capturing the overwhelming feelings of young love. Will Whitney be able to focus on her studies, or will her heart lead her in a completely different direction?
“You Are the Right One” by Sports
As Kimberly grapples with her chaotic roommate situation, the charming receptionist is captivated by her beauty and makes a bold move by asking for her number (indirectly). The romantic backdrop of “You Are the Right One” perfectly underscores this intense moment of budding college love, showcasing TSLOCG’s knack for capturing unforgettable scenes.
“ That’s Our Style” by West Rose
Bela steps into her new role as a campus FAF for incoming freshmen, but things take a turn when she encounters Taylor, a rebellious girl determined to make Bela’s job anything but easy. As the upbeat track “That’s Our Style” plays in the background, it perfectly captures the tension in the air. It alsot sets the stage for a thrilling showdown between authority and rebellion as Bela learns to navigate new challenges.
“Queen” by I.AM.EM
As Whitney dedicates herself to her soccer this semester, “I Am Queen” plays in the background, capturing her frustration during practice. She feels the pressure of competition from the new freshman players.
“Body Go” by That Chicc
In this emotionally charged episode, Leighton reveals some devastating news about her recent endeavors to Bela, Whitney, and Kimberly. The trio decides to take a trip down memory lane and pre-game in their old dorm—the very place where their unforgettable friendship first took root. As they reminisce about the good times they shared, the lively track “Body Go” starts playing, bringing back a flood of joyful memories. The music acts as a backdrop to their spirited reunion, igniting a burst of energy and laughter among the girls. They embrace the moment, proving that even in tough times, their bond is unbreakable and their friendship can lift them through any challenge.
“Cafuné” by Sofi Tukker
As the girls wrap up their nostalgic visit to their old dorm, they set off for one final party together. With the liquor coursing through their veins, they’re excited for whatever the night holds. The song “Cafuné” plays, perfectly amplifying the vibrancy of this moment.
Episode 3: “Four to a Suite”
“BACKYARD PARTY” by Moise
As Kimberly embraces her Bi-Boy era, she realizes she and her new fling share the same taste in men. While exchanging stories about their exes, the upbeat vibes of “BACKYARD PARTY” heighten her confidence, allowing her to explore her sexuality with someone who truly understands her journey.
“Here For You” by Bangbang
When Whitney’s teacher requests a meeting to discuss her A+ on the African-American history paper, Whitney becomes flustered, stumbling over her words and inadvertently disrespecting her teacher’s role. “Here For You” plays softly in the background, highlighting the tension and embarrassment of the moment.
“Feelin’ It” by Umii, Reva DeVito & B. Bravov
As Bela navigates her budding feelings for a charming new guy on campus, her emotions unexpectedly turn in the cafeteria. Watching him rush to help another girl in distress, Bela feels a spark that catches her off guard. With “Feelin’ It” playing in the background, the moment captures her imagination as she begins to romanticize the possibilities of what could be.
“Bollywood Bounce” by Keys N Krates
Whitney steps foot on Essex College’s soccer grounds for another practice. The pulsating rhythm of “Bollywood Bounce” echoes around her to show the intense teammate vs teammate scrimmage that’s going down.
“Floating “ by Juno Is
Bela’s crush reveals that he has a girlfriend and her dreams of them being together are crushed right before her eyes. In true Bela fashion, she uses comedic relief to cope with her pain while “Floating” plays in the background. This moment highlights the embarrassment of the situation while still capturing its humor.
“Drip Drop by” by Erika Jane
As the infectious beats of “Drip Drop” pulse through the air, Kimberly, Whitney, and Bela gather in their favorite spot: a party where the music is louder than their poor life choices. The conversation quickly turns to Kimberly’s recent hookup, which, let’s just say, didn’t go as planned.
“Morning Sex” by Ralph Castelli
As Kimberly gathers the courage to share her essential do’s and don’ts with her new hookup, this conversation becomes pivotal, leading to… Yk What. The atmosphere is charged, and just when emotions reach their peak, TSLOCG sets the mood perfectly by playing “Morning Sex,” a track that encapsulates the intimacy and anticipation of their moment.
“Summer Simmer “ by Orang Utan
As Whitney comes to her senses and realizes that her S.T.E.M. lab isn’t truly “black girl friendly,” she feels compelled to apologize to her history teacher for not speaking up sooner. Meanwhile, Bel\la chooses to go after the guy she has feelings for, despite him having a girlfriend. With “Summer Simmer” playing in the background, the scene captures the joy and optimism for the future ahead, hinting at exciting changes awaiting both girls.
We’ll keep building this killer soundtrack as more episodes drop, but for now, you’ll find me playing these at my next pre-game!