Courtney Barnett shares “Smile Real Pretty,” a punky and playful theme song for ‘Harriet the Spy’

Courtney Barnett is ready to rile up the next generation of wannabe spies with “Smile Real Nice.” The track is the theme song for the upcoming animated Apple TV+ series, Harriet the Spy. Based on the 1964 children’s novel by Louise Fitzhugh, the show follows the adventures of the 11-year-old budding detective through New York City in the 60s. 

Barnett channels Harriet’s free-spirited nature and endless curiosity on the track. The single mirrors her refusal to take things at face value, as she’s constantly asking questions and perpetually suspicious of everyone around her. With punchy percussion and a rowdy undertone, it’s a fun take on being a nonconformist: “I don’t wanna be/You don’t wanna be/We don’t wanna be told what to do.” 

In addition to penning the theme song, Barnett has been busy getting ready for a sweeping North American tour, which will kick off this fall. She will make a stop in Philly on February 4, 2022, to play The Met with fellow Australian songstress Julia Jacklin. Her new album, Things take Time, will be out November 12 via Mom + Pop Music and Marathon Artists. 

You can stream the track below and catch the worldwide premiere of Harriet the Spy on November 19. More information on the show at The Met Philly can be found at the XPN Concert Calendar.