Music in Stranger Things is more than just a nostalgic nod to the 1980s—it’s a storytelling device, a mood setter, and a character amplifier. Reddit users consistently praise Jim Croce’s "You Don’t Mess Around With Jim," which appears in Seasons 2 and 3 and perfectly complements Chief Hopper’s rugged, everyman persona. One Reddit user summed it up succinctly: "Easily one of the best choices for a song for multiple reasons. The whole folky/Hopper feel to it is just perfect."
Billy Hargrove’s electrifying introduction, set to Scorpions’ "Rock You Like a Hurricane," is another fan favorite. The song’s raw energy mirrors Billy’s brash, unapologetic personality and instantly signals the danger and charisma he brings to Hawkins. One commenter captured the sentiment perfectly: "I can’t really explain what I mean but the song is just so him."
Even emotional ballads find their place. Peter Gabriel’s cover of "Heroes" is woven into the series at critical moments, especially in Seasons 1 through 3. Fans speculate it could return for Season 5 to underscore the Byers family story arc. Its anthemic quality makes it ideal for capturing triumph, loss, and the bittersweet weight of growing up in Hawkins while confronting the Upside Down. Music in these scenes isn’t incidental; it drives emotional engagement, making the supernatural feel grounded in the human experience.
Stranger Things thrives on nostalgia, and the soundtrack is a critical element in transporting audiences back to the 1980s. Madonna’s "Material Girl" is a standout example, playing during the Starcourt Mall sequence with Max and Eleven. Fans praised its perfect fit: "Like it had a stereotypical girly feel to it, and they were going shopping without the boys. It was just a brilliant song choice." This playful insertion of period-accurate pop culture adds levity while reinforcing character traits—Max’s youthful confidence and Eleven’s growing social adaptability.
Season 3’s use of The Police’s "Every Breath You Take" created unforgettable tension. Played during the climactic "MF" reveal, fans described it as giving them goosebumps, noting how the song’s obsessive undertones mirrored the scene’s psychological tension. Similarly, Moby’s "When It’s Cold I’d Like to Die" accompanied the intense sequence of Hopper and Joyce attempting to revive Will in Season 1. Fans agreed it "fit so well" into the moment, heightening the emotional stakes and leaving a lasting impact. Reddit users repeatedly point out that these tracks are more than background—they act as an emotional conduit, connecting viewers directly to Hawkins’ narrative heart.
Music also serves to illuminate character development in Stranger Things. Foreigner’s "Waiting for a Girl Like You," for example, paired with Nancy and Steve’s intimate moment, elicited fan excitement: "That’s one of my favorite songs ever, and it fit the scene too well." Here, the song reflects longing, growth, and personal vulnerability, bridging the characters’ individual arcs with audience emotion.
Original compositions, particularly BigGiantCircles’ "Outside the Realm," are equally vital. Created specifically for the show, this atmospheric track accompanies Jonathan and Nancy’s journey, underscoring the tension and emotional complexity of their story. Its nuanced integration exemplifies how music in Stranger Things does more than evoke nostalgia—it deepens the audience’s connection to the characters’ inner lives.
Anticipation for Season 5 has sparked discussions among fans about what songs might appear next. Suggestions like INXS’s "Never Tear Us Apart" reflect hopes that new music will continue to mirror the themes of unity, growth, and separation inherent in Hawkins’ ongoing story. One Redditor mused, "If there is a time jump of some sort, it would be a great addition!" Music fans see these hypothetical selections as narrative tools, capable of enriching the storytelling just as effectively as dialogue or action.
The series demonstrates a masterful balance of iconic hits and tailored compositions. By pairing character-driven moments with carefully curated tracks, the Duffers create an immersive experience that lingers beyond the screen. Music becomes a bridge, linking viewers’ own memories with the fictional lives unfolding in Hawkins. It strengthens the audience’s emotional engagement and cements Stranger Things as a series that understands the cultural and psychological power of a well-chosen song.
Stranger Things is ultimately a celebration of narrative, nostalgia, and music. As Season 5 approaches, fans eagerly anticipate which songs will define the next chapter of Hawkins’ story, offering both emotional resonance and 1980s authenticity. From the high-energy entrance of a villain to quiet, introspective moments between friends, the soundtrack continues to elevate the series, ensuring every scene strikes the perfect chord. Reddit users’ enthusiasm underscores the communal experience of music in Stranger Things, proving that the right song can transform a moment into a memory, both inside and outside the Upside Down.
