Stranger Things star tops UK chart as finale sparks 1980s music revival

Joe Keery, best known for his role as Steve Harrington in the hit Netflix series Stranger Things, has reached number one on the UK singles chart under his music alias Djo, as the show’s finale triggers a surge of interest in both new and classic tracks.

Keery’s song End of Beginning has climbed to the top spot following renewed attention sparked by the series’ concluding episodes. Although the track was first released in 2022 and had already enjoyed chart success, peaking at number four in 2024, it has now reached number one for the first time.

The chart rise reflects the powerful influence of television soundtracks on music consumption. Stranger Things has become particularly known for reviving older songs, often introducing 1980s hits to a new generation of listeners. Following the finale, multiple tracks from that era have re entered the UK charts, benefiting from heavy streaming and social media attention.

Keery has balanced acting and music throughout his career, maintaining a clear separation between the two identities. While millions recognise him as Steve Harrington, his fan favourite character in Stranger Things, his music is released under the name Djo, allowing his work to stand independently of the show.

End of Beginning has been widely shared online in recent weeks, with fans connecting its themes of reflection and transition to the emotional ending of the series. Music analysts say the song’s ascent highlights how streaming platforms amplify cultural moments, allowing tracks to resurface years after their initial release.

The renewed chart presence of 1980s songs mirrors previous trends seen earlier in the series’ run. Earlier seasons famously propelled older tracks back into global prominence, reinforcing Stranger Things’ reputation as a powerful driver of nostalgia based listening habits.

Industry observers note that the success of Keery’s song is unusual in that it bridges both worlds. Unlike many soundtrack driven revivals, End of Beginning is not an old track from the 1980s but a modern release that has benefited from emotional association rather than nostalgia alone.

Keery has previously spoken about his desire to be taken seriously as a musician, independent of his acting career. Reaching number one represents a major milestone and suggests his audience extends beyond fans of the show.

Streaming data shows a sharp spike in listens following the finale’s release, with playlists featuring Stranger Things related music dominating charts across platforms. Younger listeners in particular have been driving the resurgence, often discovering older tracks for the first time through the series.

Music critics say the phenomenon underscores how modern chart success is increasingly tied to cultural visibility rather than traditional promotion. A single television moment can now generate millions of streams within days, reshaping how hits are made.

As Stranger Things concludes its run, its cultural footprint continues to expand beyond television. From fashion to music, the series has consistently influenced trends, and its final episodes appear to have cemented its role as one of the most impactful shows of the streaming era.

For Joe Keery, the moment marks a crossover success that few actors achieve. With End of Beginning now topping the UK chart, his transition from on screen favourite to chart leading musician has been fully realised, closing one chapter while opening another.