Joe Keery’s Music Career Soars After Stranger Things Success

The popular Netflix series Stranger Things has significantly boosted Joe Keery's profile, helping to launch his career in music. The show's global success has introduced him to a wider audience, increasing recognition for his work beyond acting.

An Unlikely Chart-Topper Emerges

With the curtain just drawn on the final season of Stranger Things, few would have predicted that its star, Joe Keery, would immediately dominate the world of streaming music. Yet, as the series finale captivated fans worldwide on Netflix, another spectacle unfolded on Spotify: Keery’s band, Djo, soared to the top of the platform’s daily global chart with their track “End of Beginning.” This achievement is particularly remarkable given that it displaced none other than Taylor Swift and her hit song, “The Fate of Ophelia,” from the coveted number one spot.

The Power of Timing and Fandom

It appears that the emotional crescendo marking the end of an era for Stranger Things also triggered a wave of support for Keery’s musical alter ego. “End of Beginning,” originally released in 2022, seemed almost destined to quietly fade—until early January 2026, when it began its climb. The synchronicity between the series’ finale and Djo’s chart-topping moment speaks volumes about the loyalty—and curiosity—of Keery’s fanbase. Viewers didn’t merely bid farewell to Steve Harrington; they propelled Keery into an entirely new artistic spotlight.

From Supporting Actor to Multi-Talented Star

Keery’s ascent hasn’t been without obstacles. Juggling a demanding shooting schedule over nearly a decade with his musical ambitions required determination—and no small amount of creativity in finding time to record between scenes. Several factors explain this newfound success:

• The intense connection fans feel with both his character and music.
• A well-timed release coinciding with widespread media attention.
• The growing appetite for multi-talented artists breaking typecast molds.

His rise has led many observers to argue that Keery is no longer just an “actor-musician”—he’s rapidly attaining bona fide superstar status.

Looking Beyond Hawkins: What Comes Next?

As attention shifts away from Hawkins and into new creative realms, Keery stands at an intriguing crossroads. There are rumors about a possible spin-off, but for now, his immediate future includes the upcoming release of the film Cold Storage, slated for February 2026. Whether he deepens his commitment to Djo or explores major cinematic roles, it seems clear: Joe Keery’s days as a mere supporting player are well behind him. The start of this year may well mark the beginning of a remarkable second act.