"I Don't Want To Be" by Gavin DeGraw serves as the opening theme for the television series *One Tree Hill*, establishing the show's emotional tone through its melodic pop-rock arrangement. Released in 2005 on the series' soundtrack album, the track blends DeGraw's signature vocal style with a driving rhythm that became synonymous with the drama's narrative of youth and heartbreak. The song's placement at the start of episodes helped define the visual and auditory identity of the program during its initial run, resonating with audiences who connected the lyrics to the series' exploration of teenage relationships and personal growth. As a defining moment in the show's history, the recording remains a staple of 2000s teen drama soundtracks, illustrating how television themes can transcend the screen to become enduring musical works in their own right.