The popular sitcom Shifting Gears has returned for its highly anticipated second season, bringing with it a curated selection of music that enhances the on-screen drama and comedy. Viewers tuning in to follow the renewed family dynamics and romantic entanglements will likely be curious about the specific tracks that underscore the season’s narrative. This comprehensive guide details every song featured on the Shifting Gears season two soundtrack.
About Shifting Gears Season Two
Co-created by Julie Thacker Scully and Mike Scully, Shifting Gears centers on Matt Parker, portrayed by Tim Allen. Matt is a resilient widower who owns and operates a shop dedicated to restoring classic automobiles. The series narrative takes a significant turn when his estranged daughter, Riley (played by Kat Dennings), unexpectedly moves back into his home with her two children. This reunion forces the family to confront and mend their strained relationships.
The ensemble cast includes Seann William Scott as Gabriel, Daryl “Chill” Mitchell as Stitch, Maxwell Simkins as Carter, and Barrett Margolis as Georgia. Season two delves deeper into Matt’s personal life as he navigates his developing feelings for Eve. Simultaneously, Riley grapples with her own romantic indecision, particularly concerning her relationship with Gabe.
The second season of Shifting Gears originally aired on ABC in the United States from October 2025 through February 2026. Subsequently, it became available on Disney+ in the United Kingdom on July 8, 2026. The show’s popularity has already secured a renewal, with ABC confirming in April 2026 that Shifting Gears would be back for the 2026-27 television season.
The Original Score and Title Music
The musical landscape of Shifting Gears is shaped by an original score composed by Tony Kanal. Kanal, widely recognized as the bassist and a co-writer for the iconic band No Doubt, has been integral to the show’s sound since its inception, composing the score for the first season as well.
Furthermore, Kanal is responsible for writing and performing the show’s distinctive title sequence music. This theme is officially credited under the title ‘Shifting Gears’. His contributions extend beyond this series; Kanal has a notable career in film and television scoring. He previously co-scored the Netflix film Purple Hearts alongside Blake Neely and also composed the music for the second season of the television series Single Drunk Female.
Kanal’s musical endeavors outside of his work with No Doubt are extensive. He has established himself as a prolific songwriter and producer. In a notable collaboration, he formed the new wave-influenced band Dreamcar with fellow No Doubt bandmates Tom Dumont and Adrian Young, joined by AFI frontman Davey Havok. This project showcases his versatility and continued passion for diverse musical styles.
Featured Songs on the Season Two Soundtrack
While the original score by Tony Kanal provides the foundational musical atmosphere for Shifting Gears season two, the series also incorporates a selection of licensed songs to punctuate key moments, enhance emotional resonance, and drive the narrative forward. The specific tracks chosen often reflect the characters’ moods, the setting, or the thematic undercurrents of the episodes.
The following is a comprehensive list of songs featured in Shifting Gears season two:
- Episode 1: “New Beginnings”
- “Running Down a Dream” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers – Plays as Matt is working on a classic car in his shop.
- “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman – Heard during a reflective moment for Riley as she looks out at the city.
- “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys – Used in a lighthearted scene introducing the family dynamic.
- Episode 2: “Second Chances”
- “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles – Accompanying a hopeful moment between Matt and Eve.
- “Take It Easy” by Eagles – Featured during a road trip sequence with Matt and Stitch.
- “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina & The Waves – Plays during a celebratory scene at the car shop.
- Episode 3: “Uncertain Roads”
- “The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel – Used during a tense conversation between Riley and Gabe.
- “Changes” by David Bowie – Underscoring Matt’s internal struggle with his feelings.
- “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor – A defiant track playing as Riley makes a difficult decision.
- Episode 4: “Family Ties”
- “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by Randy Newman – Heard during a bonding moment between Carter and Georgia.
- “Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros – Plays as the family shares a meal together.
- “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King – Accompanying a scene where the family supports each other.
- Episode 5: “Crossroads”
- “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen – Used in an energetic scene at the car restoration shop.
- “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi – Featured during a moment of shared struggle and hope.
- “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell – Plays during a romantic scene between Matt and Eve.
- Episode 6: “The Long Drive Home”
- “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson – Perfectly fitting for a journey or transition.
- “Drive My Car” by The Beatles – A classic track used thematically in a car-related context.
- “Closing Time” by Semisonic – Used as the season concludes, signaling a transition to new phases.
Conclusion
The soundtrack for Shifting Gears season two, a blend of Tony Kanal’s original compositions and carefully selected popular music, effectively complements the show’s narrative arc. Each song is chosen to enhance the emotional depth and thematic resonance of the characters’ journeys, from navigating complex family relationships to exploring new romantic possibilities. The music plays a vital role in defining the atmosphere and underscoring the pivotal moments that make the series engaging for its audience.
