Actor and musician Joe Keery, widely recognized for his role as Steve Harrington in the acclaimed Netflix series “Stranger Things,” has achieved a significant milestone in the music world. Keery, performing under his musical moniker Djo, secured the number one position on Spotify’s Global Top 50 chart, ending a dominant run by pop superstar Taylor Swift in early 2025.
The 33-year-old artist’s viral track, “End of Beginning,” catapulted to the top spot, demonstrating the immense power of organic online traction combined with a strong existing fanbase. This achievement marks a pivotal moment for Djo, solidifying his presence as a serious contender in the contemporary music landscape beyond his acting career.
Djo’s meteoric rise on the charts
Djo’s single, “End of Beginning,” initially released in 2022 as part of his album “Decide” and later gaining a remix version in 2024, experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity. The track became a sensation across various social media platforms throughout the past year, laying the groundwork for its chart-topping performance. Its recent climb to the summit of Spotify’s Global Top 50 represents the culmination of this growing viral momentum.
The song’s success was further amplified by the impending conclusion of “Stranger Things.” Fans of the series, anticipating the final season, rallied around Keery’s musical endeavor, leading to a dramatic increase in streams and a collective effort that propelled “End of Beginning” past its competitors. This strong connection between Keery’s two artistic worlds proved instrumental in his recent accomplishment.
Taylor Swift’s reign concludes
Taylor Swift, 36, had held the coveted top spot on Spotify’s Global Top 50 for an impressive 78 consecutive days with her track “The Fate Of Ophelia.” Her extensive period at number one highlighted her consistent global appeal and the unwavering loyalty of her fanbase, often referred to as “Swifties.” The track had previously broken records, including surpassing the streaming milestones set by “Flowers.”
“The Fate Of Ophelia” also saw a significant boost in reproductions earlier in the year due to the popularization of an AI-generated version. This AI rendition, titled “A Sina de Ofélia,” featured the synthesized voices of Brazilian artists Dilsinho and Luísa Sonza, illustrating the evolving ways in which music gains renewed attention and engagement in the digital era. Swift’s consistent performance across platforms underscores her enduring status as a dominant force in music.
Broader chart impact and industry trends
Beyond the top position, “End of Beginning” also made a significant impact on other global charts. The track climbed to third place on the “Top Songs – Global” weekly report, a key indicator of widespread international appeal. It charted just below Taylor Swift’s leading entry and “Golden” by the popular K-Pop group, “Guerreiras do K-Pop” (K-Pop Warriors), highlighting the diverse musical landscape at the forefront of global streaming.
The momentum generated by the impending conclusion of “Stranger Things” extended beyond Djo’s single. The series finale notably impelled a sharp spike in streams for two Prince songs featured prominently in the final chapter of the production. This phenomenon underscores how popular culture, especially high-profile television series, can significantly influence music consumption and reintroduce classic tracks to new audiences, showcasing the intricate web of media influence in today’s entertainment world.
Keery’s dual career path as a successful actor and a chart-topping musician exemplifies a growing trend in the entertainment industry. Artists are increasingly leveraging their multifaceted talents across different mediums, finding new avenues for creative expression and audience engagement. This cross-pollination between film, television, and music allows for unique promotional opportunities and strengthens fan connections. The success of “End of Beginning” is a testament to the power of a dedicated fanbase and the unpredictable nature of viral hits in the digital age, proving that authentic artistic expression can resonate globally irrespective of conventional industry pathways.
