Stranger Things Soundtrack Surge: How the Show's Final Season Boosted Music Streams and Catapulted Actors-Turned-Musicians
Welcome to the Trending Up newsletter by Billboard Pro, where we delve into the latest songs, artists, trends, and curiosities that are making waves in the music industry. From unexpected hits to long-awaited moments, we explore the highlights that could soon dominate the music scene, possibly sparked by a viral TikTok video.
In the final episode of the popular series Stranger Things, both the songs and actors-turned-musicians featured in the show experienced significant streaming boosts. The show, known for reviving '80s cult classics, concluded its blockbuster final season with a bang, featuring iconic tracks like Prince's "When Doves Cry" and "Purple Rain." These songs saw massive gains in streams following the finale, with "Purple Rain" potentially re-entering the Billboard Hot 100.
Apart from legendary artists like Prince and David Bowie, the show also highlighted songs from Fleetwood Mac, Pixies, Cowboy Junkies, and Iron Maiden, among others. The soundtrack's diverse selection resonated with fans, leading to a surge in streams for these classic tracks, creating a nostalgic trip back to the '80s music era.
Stranger Things not only impacted catalog artists but also propelled the music careers of its cast members. Actors like Maya Hawke, Finn Wolfhard, and Joe Keery, known as Djo in the music world, experienced a surge in streams following the show's finale. Djo's song "End of Beginning" saw a remarkable increase in streams and digital sales, re-entering the Hot 100 and potentially climbing higher on the charts.
In the realm of contemporary music, Zara Larsson is making waves with her pop hits, particularly with her album Midnight Sun and the track "Stateside." Collaborations with artists like PinkPantheress have further boosted her popularity, with her songs gaining traction on streaming platforms. Zara's revival of her hit single "Lush Life" from a decade ago is also resonating with fans, showcasing her enduring appeal in the music industry.
The series Heated Rivalry has captivated audiences since its premiere, with its season one finale generating buzz for its syncs. Songs like Ellisa Sun's "Unravel" and Cailin Russo's "Bad Things" received significant streaming boosts following their inclusion in the show, highlighting the power of music in enhancing storytelling and emotional impact.
As we look ahead to the music trends of 2026, it's clear that both legacy artists and emerging talents are shaping the industry landscape. From iconic classics to contemporary hits, the music world continues to evolve, driven by the fusion of nostalgia and innovation. Stay tuned for more updates on the latest trends and breakthroughs in the music scene.