
Warning! This article contains SPOILERS for Clean Slate.
Overview of Clean Slate
Clean Slate is an inspiring tale of family reconciliation set against the vibrant backdrop of Mobile, Alabama. The show artfully weaves a soundtrack that enhances its empowering story, making it a true delight for viewers. This latest creation from Norman Lear follows the journey of Desiree, a New York artist, who returns home after a 23-year estrangement from her father. In a touching twist, she reveals her identity as a trans woman and expresses her longing to mend their fractured relationship.
Cast and Reception
Leading the cast is Laverne Cox alongside comedy veteran George Wallace, supported by a talented ensemble that blends seasoned performers with fresh faces. Critics have been quick to praise Clean Slate for its uplifting tone, highlighting a narrative that encourages growth and love, allowing characters to transcend old grudges and generational gaps.
The show’s soundtrack is another standout feature, offering a mix of timeless classics, heartfelt ballads, and contemporary queer anthems, setting high expectations for its renewal.
Complete Soundtrack Listing for Season 1
Song Title | Artist |
---|---|
“For Once in My Life” | Stevie Wonder |
“What You See Is What You Get” | Daryl Hall & John Oates |
“Work for It (feat. LÒNIS)” | Daphne Willis & LÒNIS |
“I Got the Moves” | Devin Hoffman, Radicchio Nash & Dennis Padula |
“Going For The Juggler” | Daniel Holter & Mark Robertson |
“Insidious 8” | Robert Armani, Dolby D |
“Every Praise” | Hezekiah Walker |
“You’re The Best” | Joe Esposito |
“High Life” | SONNY OH! |
“Hard to Say I’m Sorry” | Chicago |
“Get Up and Get Out (1964)” | Clint Stacey |
“Boogie Night Bar” | Mazelo Nostra |
“Stick It To The Man” | Archie Thompson |
“Stand Up and Be Counted” | Aaron Kaplan |
“Dynamite Feels So Right” | Saracen Blues |
“Me So Horny” | The 2 Live Crew |
“Will the Circle Be Unbroken” | Aaron Kaplan & Jamison Hollister |
“Crescent City” | Lucinda Williams |
“When The Saints Go Marching In” | Lomax & Barker |
“Problematic” | Kim Peter |
“This Is How We Do It” | Montell Jordan |
“Now (Drumcomplex Remix)” | C. Y.B. |
“Blackout Blackout” | Kylie Minogue |
“I Wanna Go (feat. K.O. The Legend)” | Photronique |
“My Babe” | Art Neville |
“You’re the Best” | Joan “Bean” Esposito |
“Heart’s Content” | Brandi Carlile |
“Rain On Me” | Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga |
“Can You Handle My Love” | Nine One One |
“I Want Someone Badly” | Jeff Buckley & Shudder to Think |
Episode-Specific Songs Guide
Clean Slate Season 1 Episode 1 Songs: “Desiree. And Whatnot.”

“For Once in My Life” by Stevie Wonder: This iconic track opens the series as Harry drives through Alabama, greeting friends before arriving at his car wash. The song plays a significant role in setting the tone
“What You See Is What You Get” by Daryl Hall & John Oates: At the Slate Family Car Wash, Harry and Mack discuss modernization and aspirations. Meanwhile, Opal’s dreams are intertwined with her reality.
“For Once in My Life” by Stevie Wonder: A poignant moment occurs when Harry and Desiree visit her mother’s grave, highlighting their commitment to healing.
Clean Slate Season 1 Episode 3 Songs: “Opal’s Day Off”

“Work for It (feat. LÒNIS)” by Daphne Willis & LÒNIS: Opal navigates her responsibilities while humorously dealing with her team at the car wash.
“I Got the Moves” by Devin Hoffman, Radicchio Nash & Dennis Padula: The day’s events take a lively twist as the crew enjoys a vibrant atmosphere during Career Day.
“Going For The Juggler” by Daniel Holter & Mark Robertson: A bonding experience at Jojo’s Down-home Hoedown reveals deeper emotions between the characters.
“Insidious 8” by Robert Armani, Dolby D: In a heartfelt scene, Desiree confronts Harry about their challenging past, bringing resolution through dialogue.
Clean Slate Season 1 Episode 4 Songs: “Chrome Jesus”

“Every Praise” by Hezekiah Walker: The uplifting energy of the church scene showcases Desiree’s growing journey of acceptance.
“You’re The Best” by Joe Esposito: A comic moment as Mack mentors Opal through challenges, channeling nostalgia for underdog triumphs.
“High Life” by SONNY OH!: Desiree seeks solace following a disheartening church experience, highlighting solidarity among friends.
“Hard to Say I’m Sorry” by Chicago: With emotions at a peak, Louis and Desiree navigate tensions through music, signifying their evolving friendship.
Clean Slate Season 1 Episode 5 Songs: “Closer Than They Appear”

“Get Up and Get Out (1964)” by Clint Stacey: A light-hearted moment amidst familial interactions as Desiree looks forward to independence.
“Boogie Night Bar” by Mazelo Nostra: Celebrations at the car wash reflect the characters’ growth and newfound joys.
Clean Slate Season 1 Episode 6 Songs: “Pillars”

“Stick It To The Man” by Archie Thompson: Ella’s determined spirit sets a motivating tone for the episode’s events.
“Stand up and Be Counted” by Aaron Kaplan: Harry’s active participation at the voting center highlights civic engagement.
“Dynamite Feels So Right” by Blues Saraceno: A playful encounter at the car wash brings laughter amid serious moments.
“Me So Horny” by The 2 Live Crew: Ella’s fierce nature arises as she rallies her friends against distractions during voting.
“Will the Circle Be Unbroken” by Aaron Kaplan & Jamison Hollister: The day concludes with a heartfelt celebration, recognizing community resilience.
Clean Slate Season 1 Episode 7 Songs: “Mess and Magic”

“Crescent City” by Lucinda Williams: Louis and Desiree’s experience serves as a microcosm of the episode’s exploration of identity and community.
“When The Saints Go Marching In” by Lomax & Barker: The parade presents a celebratory environment, merging joy with purpose.
“Problématique” by Kim Petras: Engaging encounters at the ball deepen personal connections and character dynamics.
“This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan: As music sets the mood, friendships blossom in vibrant scenes.
“Now (Drumcomplex Remix)” by C. Y.B.: A moment of courage leads to a new connection.
“Padam Padam” by Kylie Minogue: Harry’s playful rivalry fuels the festivities, emphasizing community spirit.
“I Wanna Go (feat. K.O. The Legend)” by Photronique: An unexpected conflict brings emotional stakes to the celebration.
Clean Slate Season 1 Episode 8 Songs: “Born Again… Again”

“My Babe” by Art Neville: Parallel narratives unfold as characters share moments of intimacy and reflection.
“You’re the Best” by Joan “Bean” Esposito: Preparation for significant events deepens understandings of personal relationships.
“Heart’s Content” by Brandi Carlile: The episode delves into love and vulnerability, framing critical turning points.
“Rain On Me” by Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga: The church’s celebration of love showcases a powerful communal experience.
“Can You Handle My Love” by Nine One One: Themes of acceptance and friendship resonate as characters navigate emotional truths.
“I Want Someone Badly” by Jeff Buckley & Shudder to Think: A culmination of feelings pushes characters towards decisions that redefine their connections.
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