Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist: 6 most emotional tunes from episode 1
By Sandy C.
3. “Mad World,” Gary Jules
Speaking of success and charm, no one rocks both quite like Simon (John Clarence Stewart). He is Zoey’s co-worker who always wears a smile and is happy to be at work. Zoey has a crush on Simon, but has always been too shy to approach him. During a late night at work, Simon breaks into song (and tears). Why is such a seemingly happy guy singing “Mad World,” one of the most powerful and sad songs?
Mo suggests that Zoey talk to Simon to see what’s bothering him and how she can help. Turns out, Simon’s father committed suicide a few months ago and Simon has had a rough time getting through it. The two bond over their dads, as Zoey’s father, Mitch, is suffering from a rare neurological disease that doesn’t allow him to move or speak. Doctors aren’t even sure if Mitch is able to process his surroundings.
4. “All I do Is Win,” DJ Khaled
Someone else who is revealed to be hiding their true feelings is Leif (Michael Thomas Grant), another co-worker of Zoey’s. He cheers Zoey on and often defends her, but he isn’t as nice as he appears to be. Both Zoey and Leif are competing for the position of manager of engineering and Leif wishes Zoey good luck. But instead, all Zoey can hear and see is Leif break down into a dance as he raps “All I do Is Win.”