Billions is many things to many people: some love the amazing acting, some enjoy the sharp writing, and many love the pop culture references galore.
However it’s the soundtrack to Billions that can be all things to all people!
From Dylan to Black Sabbath, from Sammy Davis Jr. to Nelly, Billions has it all, and more.
I’ve written several times about Axe and his music; it was only natural for the gang at Fan Fun to share our favorite songs featured in our favorite show.
Without further ado, here is Lady Trader’s Playlist updated for S5, and I’m sure most of the picks will not surprise you! Also, “From the Trader’s Desk”: Bobby Axelrod – a Man and his Music, has been updated for S5 and you can read it here.
“Never Say Die” by Black Sabbath – Season 3 Episode 8 All The Wilburys
No surprise here. I love Black Sabbath, Axe loves Black Sabbath, and Brian Koppelman loves Black Sabbath. Axe returning as the triumph king in his Master of Reality t-shirt was legendary!
“Master of Puppets” by Metallica – Season 1 Episode 4 Short Squeeze
Our first introduction to Axe the metalhead, but certainly not our last!
“Ace of Spades” by Motörhead – Season 4 Episode 1 Chucky Rhoades’s Greatest Game
If ever there was a thrash metal song written about Axe, then this is it!
“Peace Sells” by Megadeth – Season 2 Episode 4 The Oath
“Battle” Axe goes to war with Chuck, and his armor is his Megadeth t-shirt. How fitting!
“For Those About to Rock” by AC/DC – Season 2 Episode 7 Victory Lap
Axe racing in a yellow Ferrari with Angus playing in the background? Genius!
“Long Live Rock and Roll” by Rainbow – Season 5 Episode Beg, Bribe, Bully
Axe strolls on stage at Gordie’s school in his battle gear – a hoodie and a Rainbow Rising t-shirt to educate the children and it was glorious!
“TNT” by AC/DC – Season 4 Episode 8 Fight Night
You have to be a damn good band to be on this playlist twice; and the Bon Scott years of AC/DC are damn good! As an aside, any band that can use bagpipes in a hard rock song will always have a piece of my heart.
“Vertigo” by U2 – Season 5 Episode 2 The Chris Rock Test
The song opened the episode, which coincidently coincided with Bono’s birthday!
“New Year’s Day” by U2 – Season 4 Episode 10 – New Year’s Day
Bono’s haunting voice along with the deserted wintery scenes of lower Manhattan may just be my favorite opening to an episode of Billions ever.
“Handle with Care” by The Traveling Wilburys – Season 3 Episode 8 All the Wilburys
Yes, I am a metal-chick, but if you don’t like the Wilburys we can’t be friends. When Gingersnap was assigning the Fan Fun group which Wilbury they were, she gave me Tom Petty and that is one of the highest compliments I have ever gotten!
“Trouble” by Keith Richards – Season 2 Episode 3 Optimal Play
Why is this song on the list? Because it’s Keith Richards, and that’s all that needs to be said!
