The timeless ballet Giselle tells a story of love, betrayal, and redemption that has captivated audiences for generations. The tale of a young peasant girl who falls in love, experiences heartbreak, and ultimately transcends her earthly suffering through forgiveness is as relevant today as it was when it first premiered in 1841. In the spirit of keeping this classic alive, Giselle’s Modern Playlist offers a contemporary soundtrack inspired by the ballet’s emotional journey, blending modern music with the timeless themes of the story.
- “Young and Beautiful” – Lana Del Rey
A hauntingly beautiful song that mirrors the fragility of Giselle’s heart, full of youthful hope yet shadowed by the inevitability of heartache. - “Cellophane” – FKA twigs
A raw and vulnerable performance that echoes the emotional turmoil Giselle faces upon discovering her lover’s betrayal. - “Lovely” – Billie Eilish & Khalid
This poignant duet—with its powerful, intertwined voices—captures the tender moments of love and longing that are central to Giselle’s tale. - “Hunger” – Florence + The Machine
With its driving rhythm and powerful vocals, this exploration of longing and search for meaning in love parallels Giselle’s inner turmoil and emotional depth. - “Without You” – David Guetta feat. Usher
The song’s sorrowful tone is a reflection of the emptiness Giselle feels after her lover’s betrayal, a reminder of the love she thought was eternal. - “Ghost” – Justin Bieber
Mirroring the supernatural elements of Giselle’s second act, this track speaks to the theme of love that transcends life and death. - “Unsteady” – X Ambassadors
This song’s haunting lyrics and melody resonate with Giselle’s fragile state of mind as she navigates the thin line between love and despair. - “The Archer” – Taylor Swift
Full of vulnerability and longing, the song’s reflective tone captures the essence of Giselle’s emotional search for understanding and connection. - “Lost Without You” – Freya Ridings
A raw, deeply emotional ballad that encapsulates the theme of loss and the desperate need for love, much like Giselle’s feelings after her betrayal. - “Ghostin” – Ariana Grande
The delicate melody and haunting lyrics reflect the ethereal and ghostly elements of the ballet’s second act, where Giselle becomes a protective spirit. - “I Found” – Amber Run
Capturing the bittersweet nature of Giselle’s love, this song’s haunting quality aligns with the duality of Giselle’s emotions as she navigates love and betrayal. - “All I Want” – Kodaline
A raw and heartfelt track that expresses the anguish of unfulfilled love. Its poignant lyrics and emotional intensity make it a fitting companion to Giselle’s tragic narrative. - “The Night We Met” – Lord Huron
The wistful longing in this song perfectly encapsulates the sense of missed connection—the haunting memory of lost love—that defines Giselle’s story. - “In My Veins” – Andrew Belle feat. Erin McCarley
Mirroring Giselle’s ghostly presence in the ballet’s second act, this track conveys the deep emotional connection that transcends physical existence. - “Dancing On My Own” – Calum Scott
A modern take on unrequited love and loneliness, Scott’s poignant lyrics and emotive delivery resonate with Giselle’s feelings of isolation and heartache. - “Stay” – Rihanna feat. Mikky Ekko
This track’s powerful vocals evoke the desperation and deep yearning that drives Giselle’s actions, even after her heart has been shattered. - “No Time to Die” – Billie Eilish
The song’s moody atmosphere and haunting lyrics align with the ballet’s themes of betrayal and impending doom. - “Runaway” – AURORA
A fitting finale, its themes of escape and reflection echo the resolution of Giselle’s tale, where love ultimately transcends the pain of betrayal, leading to redemption and peace.
- “Young and Beautiful” – Lana Del Rey
Giselle’s Modern Playlist is a carefully curated collection that breathes new life into the classic ballet, offering a contemporary take on its timeless story. Each song has been chosen to reflect the emotions, themes, and atmosphere of Giselle, creating a musical journey that is as haunting and beautiful as the ballet itself. Whether you are a fan of the original work or discovering it for the first time, this playlist offers a modern symphony of love, betrayal, and redemption that resonates with the human experience.
