We Used to Be Friends is a 2002 single by the American alternative rock band The Dandy Warhols. The track was written by band members Courtney Taylor‑Taylor, Peter Holmström, and Zia McCabe, and produced by the group in collaboration with Eric Broucek. It gained prominence as the theme song for the television series Veronica Mars (2004–2007) and its 2014 revival.
Background and composition
The song originated during the sessions for The Dandy Warhols’ fifth studio album, Thirteen Tales from Urban Bohemia (2003). It features a melodic guitar-driven arrangement characteristic of the band’s blend of psychedelic pop and garage rock. Lyrically, the track reflects on a deteriorating relationship, employing a narrative perspective on former friendship.
Release
We Used to Be Friends was released as a promotional single in 2002, preceding the album’s launch. It was distributed as a digital download and promotional CD, with the latter including a radio edit and the album version.
Chart performance
The single did not achieve notable placement on major national charts. Its most significant exposure came from its association with Veronica Mars, which introduced the track to a broader audience.
Media usage
- Television: Served as the opening theme for Veronica Mars throughout the series’ original run and its 2014 film continuation.
- Soundtracks: Appeared on the Veronica Mars soundtrack album released by Warner Bros. Records.
Personnel
- Courtney Taylor‑Taylor – vocals, guitar, songwriting
- Peter Holmström – guitar, songwriting
- Zia McCabe – keyboards, synthesizers, songwriting
- Eric Broucek – production, engineering
Legacy
Although not a commercial hit, the song is recognized for its role in defining the tone of Veronica Mars and remains a notable entry in The Dandy Warhols’ discography. It continues to be referenced in discussions of TV theme music from the early 2000s.