Full Breakdown
Joe Keery Tops Spotify Charts, Dethroning Taylor Swift
1/6/2026, 9:20:26 PM
Joe Keery's Chart-Topping Success
Joe Keery, known for his role as Steve Harrington in the Netflix series *Stranger Things*, has achieved a significant milestone in his music career by topping the Spotify charts with his track "End of Beginning." This song, released in 2022 as part of his album *Decide*, surged to the number one position over the weekend, surpassing Taylor Swift's "The Fate of Ophelia," which had held the top spot for 78 consecutive days. The renewed interest in Keery's music coincided with the highly anticipated series finale of *Stranger Things*, leading to a wave of fan engagement that propelled the track to new heights.
Background on Joe Keery's Music Career
Before his rise as a solo artist under the name DJO, Keery was a member of the psychedelic rock band Post Animal, where he contributed as a guitarist and vocalist. He departed from the band in 2018 to focus on his acting career, which was gaining momentum due to *Stranger Things*. Keery's debut solo album, *Twenty Twenty*, received critical acclaim, paving the way for his follow-up project, *Decide*. His music is characterized by a neo-psychedelic sound that has resonated with audiences, culminating in the recent success of "End of Beginning."
The Impact of *Stranger Things*
The finale of *Stranger Things* played a crucial role in revitalizing interest in Keery's music. Fans revisiting his work after the show's conclusion contributed to the song's rise on the charts. Keery's connection to Swift adds an intriguing layer to this achievement; the two artists met at Electric Lady Studios in New York, where Swift praised "End of Beginning." Keery expressed his surprise at her recognition of the track, highlighting Swift's reputation as a music lover who actively seeks out new artists.
Official Statements & Responses
In a 2024 appearance on *The Spout Podcast*, Keery reflected on his encounter with Swift, stating, "She’s like a music lover," and noted his astonishment that she had heard his song. He humorously recounted the confusion of fans outside *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon*, who were expecting to see Swift but instead encountered him. Despite the competitive nature of the charts, Keery has spoken positively about Swift and has not ruled out the possibility of a future collaboration.
Criticism & Opposition
While Keery's achievement is celebrated, some critics argue that his rise on the charts is primarily due to the popularity of *Stranger Things* rather than the intrinsic quality of his music. This perspective suggests that his acting fame overshadows his musical talent, raising questions about the sustainability of his success in the music industry.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Before anything happened with this track, she said, ‘Hey, I really love that track of yours, End of Beginning.’ I was like, ‘What? You heard that song? How the hell did you hear that song?’” — Joe Keery, Musician and Actor
- “She’s like a music lover,” — Joe Keery, reflecting on Taylor Swift's praise
- “I walked out the door, and it was like 1,000 people were standing out there,” — Joe Keery, on fan expectations outside *The Tonight Show*
Joe Keery's recent success on Spotify marks a significant moment in his career, showcasing the intersection of his acting and music endeavors. As he continues to evolve as an artist, fans will be keenly watching for future developments, including potential collaborations with established artists like Taylor Swift.
