Joe Keery Surprises Fans With Global Music Breakthrough

Joe Keery, best known for his role as the beloved Steve Harrington on Netflix’s blockbuster series Stranger Things, is no stranger to the limelight. Yet, even he admits to being caught off guard by the recent, meteoric rise of his single “End of Beginning”—a baroque rock track released under his music moniker, Djo. The song’s sudden surge in popularity, years after its initial debut, has left the 33-year-old actor and musician both “shocked and confused,” as he candidly shared on The Graham Norton Show earlier this week.

Keery’s journey from the shadowy corridors of Hawkins, Indiana, to the top of global music charts is a story of creative reinvention and heartfelt gratitude. According to Filmogaz, the actor poured much of his Stranger Things earnings directly into his music career, betting on himself as an independent artist. This bold move paid off handsomely: “End of Beginning” not only broke streaming records on platforms such as Spotify, but also joined the exclusive “2 billion club,” registering over two billion streams worldwide. It’s a feat that puts Keery in rare company, outpacing many established pop giants.

But what’s truly remarkable is the timing of this breakthrough. The song was originally released in 2022, yet it only began topping charts in countries like the UK, Sweden, Italy, Greece, and Indonesia in early 2026. Keery himself seems almost incredulous at how events unfolded. “It is crazy. I am shocked and confused about the whole thing. Hearing it in a taxi was cool, and I knew it was big when my grandma asked me about it!” he told The Graham Norton Show audience, as reported by Filmogaz.

The track’s delayed success appears closely intertwined with the emotional end of Stranger Things, which aired its finale on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2025. The show’s conclusion, directed by the Duffer Brothers, marked the end of an era not only for millions of fans but for Keery himself. Waking up on New Year’s Day, he realized just how finite and bittersweet the moment was: “Wow, that’s the end of an era. It is so finite and done, which is bittersweet.”

For Keery, the finale’s resonance went beyond nostalgia. He believes that the show’s lasting message—growing up and saying goodbye to childhood—struck a chord with audiences worldwide. According to Filmogaz, Keery reflected that this theme likely contributed to the renewed interest in his music. The emotional aftermath of the finale may have prompted listeners to seek out new ways to connect with the cast, and Keery’s introspective song provided just the outlet.

Interestingly, “End of Beginning” was not featured in Stranger Things. Instead, Keery wrote and recorded the song during breaks on set, often in the quiet moments between his scenes as Steve. The song, he revealed, became a meditation on gratitude for the people in his life—a personal reflection that unexpectedly became a global anthem. As he explained, “The song then became about gratitude for all those people in my life.”

Keery’s artistic independence has been a cornerstone of his music career. By channeling his acting earnings into his own projects, he retained creative control and full ownership over his work—something he deeply values. Filmogaz notes that Keery is proud of how far he’s come as an independent artist, free from the constraints of major labels. This autonomy has allowed him to explore diverse sounds and themes, from baroque rock to more experimental genres, without having to chase fleeting industry trends.

Another key influence in Keery’s musical journey has been his co-star, Winona Ryder. He credits Ryder with inspiring him to start working on what he calls “rare music,” a nod to both the uniqueness of his sound and the courage it takes to venture beyond acting. “Winona really inspired me,” Keery shared, acknowledging the impact her encouragement had on his willingness to embrace his musical side.

As for the future, Keery shows no signs of slowing down. He is currently preparing to release new music, doubling down on his commitment to innovation and emotional authenticity. Rather than chasing chart success, he aims to create songs that evoke genuine feelings and lived experiences. “I want my music to make people feel something real,” he stated during his interview, emphasizing the importance of staying true to his artistic vision.

Keery’s story underscores a broader trend in the entertainment industry: the rise of multi-hyphenate artists who defy easy categorization. While many actors have dabbled in music, few have achieved the kind of crossover success that Keery now enjoys. His journey from the Upside Down to the top of the charts is a testament to both his talent and his willingness to take risks.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the global phenomenon that was Stranger Things. The series, which ran for nearly a decade, not only catapulted Keery to fame but also provided the creative and financial foundation for his subsequent ventures. As he looks back on his time with the show, Keery remains grateful for the opportunities it afforded him, both on and off screen.

For fans, the end of Stranger Things may be bittersweet, but Keery’s musical renaissance offers a new chapter to follow. His success with “End of Beginning” is more than just a viral moment—it’s a reflection of his growth as an artist and an individual. As he continues to innovate and surprise, one thing is clear: Joe Keery’s story is far from over.

In a world where the lines between acting and music are increasingly blurred, Keery’s journey stands out as a compelling example of what’s possible when passion, persistence, and a little bit of serendipity come together. For now, as his song continues to climb charts and win over new listeners, Keery is content to enjoy the ride—grateful, inspired, and ready for whatever comes next.