_n_S1_E2_00_47_19_22.jpg "Adolescence & Fragile Cover")
Adolescence & Fragile Cover
- The second episode of the Netflix series Adolescence concludes with a rendition of Sting's song, "Fragile," initially almost unrecognizable.
- “On and on the rain will fallLike tears from a star, like tears from a starOn and on the rain will sayHow fragile we are, how fragile we...
- the song, originally from Sting's 1987 album ...Nothing Like the Sun, appears in a cover version created specifically for the series, performed by a children's choir.
Sting‘s “Fragile” Resonates in Netflix Series “Adolescence”
Table of Contents
- Sting’s “Fragile” Resonates in Netflix Series “Adolescence”
- Sting’s “Fragile” in “Adolescence”: A Deep Dive
- Introduction: The Unexpected “Fragile”
- frequently Asked questions
- What is “Fragile” by sting about?
- Why was “Fragile” chosen for Adolescence?
- Who performs the “Fragile” cover in Adolescence?
- How does the “Fragile” cover differ from Sting’s original?
- Where did the inspiration for the cover come from?
- What specific instruments were used to create the soundtrack for Adolescence?
- What makes the use of “Fragile” in Adolescence so impactful?
- Key Differences: Sting’s Original vs. Adolescence Cover
march 23, 2025
The second episode of the Netflix series Adolescence concludes with a rendition of Sting’s song, “Fragile,” initially almost unrecognizable. As the lyrics become clearer, the singer-songwriter’s famous melody emerges.
“On and on the rain will fall
Like tears from a star, like tears from a star
On and on the rain will say
How fragile we are, how fragile we are.”
the song, originally from Sting’s 1987 album …Nothing Like the Sun, appears in a cover version created specifically for the series, performed by a children’s choir.
Composers involved in the series’ music production noted the aptness of the song’s message. The way the text adapts to the narrative is almost disturbing.
Sting dedicated the song to Benjamin Ernest Linder, an American killed in Nicaragua in 1987. The lyrics, Tomorrow’s rain will wash away the stains, but something in our minds will remain,
foreshadow the unfolding story within the series.
To integrate the song more fully into the world of Adolescence, the production team drew inspiration from The Langley Schools Music Project, a collection of songs performed by a school choir in the 1970s. They recorded students from Minsthorpe Community College, the school where episode two was filmed.
We considered it very important that the children were from the location and that the sound was authentic and not too polished.
the choir’s rendition is particularly poignant, given the context of the plot.The children’s voices replace Sting’s mature vocals, creating a chilling effect.
Initially, the role of music in Adolescence was uncertain. After experimenting with various approaches for the first two episodes, the team arrived at a satisfying result. The director suggested using the voice of Emilia Holliday, who plays Katie, the victim, as a soloist.
The production team also incorporated air-based tools
to create a breathing
soundtrack. They established a basic instrumentation,including a Victorian pump organ,flute,and harmonium,as a foundation.
Sting’s “Fragile” in “Adolescence”: A Deep Dive
Introduction: The Unexpected “Fragile”
The Netflix series Adolescence has captivated audiences with its gripping narrative.One of the most talked-about elements is the haunting use of Sting’s iconic song, “Fragile,” in the second episode. But how did this song, originally released in 1987, find its place within this contemporary story?
frequently Asked questions
What is “Fragile” by sting about?
Originally released on Sting’s 1987 album …Nothing Like the Sun,”Fragile” is a poignant reflection on loss,peace,and the fragility of human life. Sting dedicated the song too Benjamin Ernest Linder, an American killed in Nicaragua in 1987.
The lyrics, particularly lines such as “Tomorrow’s rain will wash away the stains, but something in our minds will remain,” carry a message that is both hopeful and melancholic.
Why was “Fragile” chosen for Adolescence?
The choice of “Fragile” was purposeful, with the production team recognizing the song’s powerful message. The composers noted the song’s aptness for the narrative.
Who performs the “Fragile” cover in Adolescence?
The series features a cover version of “Fragile” performed by a children’s choir. This stylistic choice was made to enhance the song’s impact.
How does the “Fragile” cover differ from Sting’s original?
The cover version is performed by a children’s choir rather than Sting’s mature vocals. this creates a chilling effect, amplifying the song’s emotional resonance. This was a conscious decision by the production team.
Where did the inspiration for the cover come from?
The production team drew inspiration from The Langley Schools Music Project, a collection of songs performed by a school choir in the 1970s. To maintain authenticity, students from Minsthorpe Community College, where episode two was filmed, were recorded.
What specific instruments were used to create the soundtrack for Adolescence?
The production team incorporated “air-based tools” to create a “breathing” soundtrack. They established a basic instrumentation, including a Victorian pump organ, flute, and harmonium, to form the foundation of the score.
What makes the use of “Fragile” in Adolescence so impactful?
The song’s integration into Adolescence is particularly effective due to the children’s choir’s rendition.The production team sought to create a raw, authentic sound, a choice meant to enhance the emotional depth of the plot.The music’s role initially felt uncertain; however, after experimenting, the team found the integration of “Fragile,” to be a satisfying result.
Key Differences: Sting’s Original vs. Adolescence Cover
| Feature | Sting’s Original | Adolescence Cover |
|——————-|—————————————————-|————————————————————|
| Vocals | Sting’s vocals | Children’s Choir |
| Instrumentation | Standard musical arrangement | Victorian pump organ, flute, harmonium, and other elements |
| Emotional Tone | Melancholic, reflective | Poignant, chilling |
| Origin | 1987 Album: …Nothing Like the Sun | Newly created for the series |