Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, The Last of Us showrunner Craig Mazin speaks about the final song played in episode 2. The song chosen was a cover of the Shawn James folk song "Through the Valley," sung by video game Ellie voice actress Ashley Johnson. Mazin confirms that the version of the song used in the series is a blend of new work and a performance Johnson made for the teaser trailer for The Last of Us Part II. Mazin continued the description, which can be found below:
It is an interesting thing in a moment like this, when your only parent is taken from you and the parent you've never met, the one you don't even know about, is there watching.
What This Means For The Last Of Us Season 2
The Last Of Us Has Made Other Music References
The "Through the Valley" ending song is yet another way that The Last of Us season 2 is paying homage to the game. In the season's premiere episode, the band featured at the dance comprises the musicians who performed that song for the original game. As such, other moments in the show have had a musical connection, much like the case of the "Through the Valley" callback. Even the episode's title takes inspiration from the song.
In addition to playing the voice of Ellie in the games, Johnson also plays Ellie's mom, Anna, in The Last of Us season 1. As such, her singing the song creates the deeper meaning that Mazin is describing. Johnson's voice being heard at the end of the episode can be taken to mean that Ellie's mom is watching over her, while at the same time, the 19-year-old is experiencing an unthinkable loss through Joel's death.
Our Take On The Last Of Us Season 2, Episode 2's Final Song
Music Is Key In The Last Of Us
From the iconic score of the original Naughty Dog game to the use of "Long, Long Time" in The Last of Us season 1, episode 3, music has always been at the core of the show's identity. As such, it makes sense why Mazin would take such care in the songs he chooses for the show, as they could become key touchstones of the episodes in which they appear. Already, the episode has been highly rated on IMDb, showing that it resonated with viewers, despite the controversial storyline.
