Netflix Series 'Stranger Things' Conquers the Music Charts - *Stranger Things* Finale Revives 80s Hits and Launches Cast to Stardom
The finale of Stranger Things has sent classic songs back up the charts. Netflix released the last episodes of the show just days ago, wrapping up five seasons. Several tracks featured in the series have now re-entered the rankings, alongside new hits from its cast members.
Prince’s 1984 ballad Purple Rain has returned to the charts at No. 61 after playing in the show’s emotional finale. The song’s reappearance follows a pattern set by other tracks tied to the series.
Kate Bush’s 1985 hit Running Up That Hill has also surged again, landing at No. 24. The song originally gained renewed popularity in the fifth season, and its latest chart return comes after the finale aired in early January 2026. Another 1980s track, The Police’s Every Breath You Take, has climbed to No. 15, having been featured in an earlier season. Meanwhile, actor Joe Keery—who plays Steve Harrington in Stranger Things—has reached No. 3 with his solo track End of Beginning. Unlike the other songs, this one is unrelated to the series. His success comes as the show’s soundtrack continues to influence the charts. At the top, Taylor Swift’s The Fate of Ophelia holds the No. 1 spot, while Golden from the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack remains at No. 2.
The final episodes of Stranger Things have given older songs a fresh boost in popularity. With tracks from Prince, Kate Bush, and The Police climbing the charts, the show’s musical impact remains strong. Meanwhile, the cast’s own music is also finding success, showing the series’ lasting influence beyond the screen.
