Since its debut on Netflix in 2016, Stranger Things has captivated audiences worldwide, not just with its thrilling storylines and nostalgic 1980s setting, but also its impeccable soundtrack. The series masterfully weaves classic hits and original compositions into its narrative, creating an atmosphere that’s both haunting and heartwarming. The Stranger Things songs have become as iconic as the show itself, often experiencing massive resurgences in popularity. This article dives deep into the best Stranger Things songs, exploring why they resonate so deeply with viewers and how they amplify the emotional impact of key moments in Hawkins.
Stranger Things Season 4 Poster
1. “Stranger Things” Theme — Michael Stein & Kyle Dixon
Every Episode
While Stranger Things is celebrated for its brilliant use of 80s needle drops, the original score by Michael Stein and Kyle Dixon of the electronic band Survive is equally crucial to the show’s identity. The “Stranger Things” theme song, in particular, is instantly recognizable and sets the tone for every episode. This Emmy Award-winning piece is more than just an intro; it’s a sonic portal to the 1980s and the mysteries of Hawkins.
Built around pulsating bass synthesizers and a haunting melody, the “Stranger Things” theme perfectly encapsulates the show’s blend of science fiction, horror, and coming-of-age drama. It evokes a sense of adventure and unease simultaneously, preparing viewers for the emotional rollercoaster ahead. The iconic synth sounds are directly inspired by the 80s soundtracks of John Carpenter and Tangerine Dream, giving it an authentic retro feel that resonates with fans of the era and newcomers alike.
2. “Every Breath You Take” — The Police
Season 2, Episode 9 (2017)
“Every Breath You Take,” The Police’s global hit from 1983, reached the pinnacle of music charts worldwide, becoming the year’s biggest song. Its inclusion in the Stranger Things Season 2 finale was a masterstroke in using familiar tunes to create complex emotional layers. Initially, the song underscores a scene of youthful joy and budding romance at the Snow Ball dance. Mike and Eleven share their first kiss, Max and Lucas connect, and Dustin debuts a new hairstyle – all seemingly signaling a return to normalcy after a season of intense supernatural threats.
However, the song’s meaning takes a sinister turn as the scene shifts to the Upside Down. The familiar, romantic melody now plays against the backdrop of the Mind Flayer looming over Hawkins, reminding viewers that the threat is far from over. This juxtaposition of “Every Breath You Take,” often perceived as a romantic ballad, with the lurking danger of the Upside Down, subverts expectations and leaves audiences with a chilling sense of foreboding. This clever use highlights the song’s inherent ambiguity and showcases Stranger Things‘ talent for using popular music to enhance narrative tension.
3. “The First I Love You” — Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein
Season 3, Episode 8 (2019)
Another gem from Dixon and Stein’s original score, “The First I Love You,” exemplifies how Stranger Things uses its soundtrack to amplify emotional depth. This delicate and poignant track perfectly underscores a pivotal moment in Mike and Eleven’s relationship. While the series is punctuated by high-octane action and supernatural suspense, it’s the heartfelt moments between characters that often resonate most powerfully.
“The First I Love You” captures the vulnerability and tenderness of Mike and Eleven finally expressing their feelings for each other. The synth-based piece is beautifully crafted, maintaining the show’s signature 80s sonic aesthetic while conveying a profound emotional intimacy. The music elevates the scene, making their declaration of love feel earned and deeply moving after all the obstacles they’ve faced. It proves that the original Stranger Things score is as adept at capturing quiet emotional moments as it is at building suspense.
4. “Rock You Like a Hurricane” — Scorpions
Season 2, Episode 1 (2017)
Stranger Things has a knack for introducing new characters with unforgettable entrances, and Billy Hargrove’s debut in Season 2 is a prime example, thanks in large part to the use of Scorpions’ “Rock You Like a Hurricane.” This high-energy rock anthem from 1984 perfectly encapsulates Billy’s disruptive and volatile personality from his very first scene.
The song’s powerful guitar riffs and driving beat mirror Billy’s intense energy and the immediate impact he has on the Hawkins dynamic. “Rock You Like a Hurricane” isn’t just a catchy tune; it’s a sonic declaration of Billy’s character. It hints at the chaos and upheaval he will bring to the lives of the main characters, foreshadowing his role as both a charismatic and dangerous presence in Hawkins. The song choice is a brilliant example of how Stranger Things uses music to instantly define character and foreshadow narrative arcs.
5. “Should I Stay or Should I Go” — The Clash
Season 1, Episode 2 (2016)
“Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash is more than just a classic punk-rock track; it’s a recurring motif and a key emotional anchor in Stranger Things. Its initial appearance in Season 1, Episode 2, establishes the deep bond between brothers Jonathan and Will Byers. The song, from The Clash’s 1982 album Combat Rock, becomes a lifeline for Will when he’s trapped in the Upside Down.
Later in Season 4, it’s revealed that Will uses “Should I Stay or Should I Go” to maintain a connection to the real world and combat the terrifying isolation of the Upside Down. The song’s simple yet poignant lyrics about indecision and longing resonate with Will’s predicament. Its re-emergence in Season 4 underscores its significance as a symbol of resilience and brotherly love. The use of this song early on signaled Stranger Things‘ ability to revitalize classic tracks and integrate them seamlessly into its storytelling fabric.
6. “Heroes” — Peter Gabriel
Season 1, Episode 3 (2016) & Season 3, Episode 8 (2019)
David Bowie’s “Heroes” is a legendary track, but Peter Gabriel’s stripped-down, melancholic rendition from 2010 takes on an even more profound emotional weight in Stranger Things. The song, originally about lovers separated by the Berlin Wall, transcends its historical context to become a universal anthem of yearning and resilience. The Duffer Brothers have deployed Gabriel’s version of “Heroes” not once, but twice, at moments of profound loss and grief in the series.
The first instance is in Season 1 when the group believes they have found Will’s body, and again in the heart-wrenching Season 3 finale as Eleven reads Hopper’s letter after his apparent death. In both scenes, Gabriel’s emotive vocals and the song’s somber tone amplify the sense of despair and the characters’ struggle to cope with loss. The repeated use of “Heroes” in such critical moments solidifies its place as a soundtrack signature for Stranger Things, forever linked to themes of sacrifice and remembrance within the show.
7. “Never Ending Story” — Liamhl & Gaten Matarazzo & Gabriella Pizzolo
Season 3, Episode 9 (2019)
Season 3 of Stranger Things delivered many memorable moments, but the duet of “Never Ending Story” is undeniably one of the most purely delightful. When Dustin needs Suzie’s help to get Planck’s Constant, her condition is that he sing the theme song from The NeverEnding Story. What starts as a reluctant plea from Dustin turns into a surprisingly charming and comedic duet between him and Suzie, played by Gabriella Pizzolo.
This unexpected musical interlude provides a perfect blend of levity and 80s nostalgia amidst the season’s escalating tension. As Dustin and Suzie, or “Dusty-Bun,” serenade each other over the radio, even characters in peril pause to appreciate the absurdity and sweetness of the moment. “Never Ending Story” showcases Stranger Things‘ ability to seamlessly weave together sci-fi, horror, action, and heartwarming humor, all while celebrating the innocent fun of the 1980s. The song itself experienced a resurgence thanks to this scene, further proving the show’s musical influence.
8. “You Don’t Mess Around With Jim” — Jim Croce
Season 2, Episode 3 (2017) & Season 3, Episode 2 (2019)
“You Don’t Mess Around With Jim” by Jim Croce is practically the theme song for Chief Jim Hopper’s gruff yet lovable personality. Stranger Things used this 1972 hit not once, but twice, perfectly timing its appearances to highlight Hopper’s character. The first instance occurs in Season 2 when Hopper and Eleven are bonding while cleaning their cabin, establishing a domestic and heartwarming scene.
However, the song’s most memorable use is in Season 3. After Hopper, in his overprotective dad mode, banishes Mike from the cabin due to his overly amorous relationship with Eleven, “You Don’t Mess Around With Jim” plays as Hopper revels in his victory. The song’s playful lyrics and upbeat rhythm perfectly capture Hopper’s smug satisfaction and his “don’t mess with me” attitude. It’s a humorous and character-defining musical moment that solidifies “You Don’t Mess Around With Jim” as Hopper’s signature tune in the Stranger Things universe.
9. “Master of Puppets” — Metallica
Season 4, Episode 9 (2022)
Eddie Munson, the metalhead newcomer in Season 4, quickly became a fan favorite. His character arc culminates in an epic scene set to Metallica’s “Master of Puppets.” Eddie, despite his self-proclaimed lack of heroism, steps up in a monumental way to help his friends. In a diversionary tactic in the Upside Down, Eddie unleashes a blistering guitar performance of “Master of Puppets,” drawing the attention of the demobats while Steve, Nancy, and Robin attack Vecna.
This scene is a pure adrenaline rush, perfectly blending Eddie’s love for metal with a heroic sacrifice. Metallica’s 1986 thrash metal masterpiece gains a new generation of fans thanks to Stranger Things, and even Metallica themselves celebrated the song’s resurgence. Eddie’s “Master of Puppets” moment is not just a thrilling action sequence; it’s a powerful testament to his character and the unexpected heroism found in the most unlikely of places. It solidified “Master of Puppets” as an iconic Stranger Things song and a cultural phenomenon once again.
10. “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” — Kate Bush
Season 4, Episode 4 (2022)
Perhaps the most impactful and culturally significant song placement in Stranger Things history is Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” in Season 4. The song, originally released in 1985, experienced an unprecedented global resurgence in 2022, topping charts decades after its initial release, entirely due to its prominent role in Stranger Things. Episode 4, “Chapter Four: Dear Billy,” is centered around Max Mayfield’s struggle against Vecna, and “Running Up That Hill” becomes her emotional anchor and lifeline.
The song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics about making a deal with God to swap places with a loved one perfectly mirror Max’s grief over Billy’s death and her fight against depression and Vecna’s psychic attacks. “Running Up That Hill” is not just background music; it’s integral to Max’s character arc and the season’s emotional core. Its powerful impact on the show and popular culture cemented its status as the quintessential Stranger Things song, demonstrating the series’ unparalleled ability to rediscover and revitalize music for a new generation.
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