80s classics get Billboard boost from Stranger Things finale

Netflix’s Stranger Things became a global phenomenon by mastering a rare “perfect storm” as it hit the perfect psychological timing for 80s nostalgia, utilized cutting-edge data for its release, and delivered a cross-generational story that felt both familiar and brand new at the same time.

The series finale of Stranger Things (Season 5, Episode 8) premiered on New Year’s Eve (2025), and set several massive industry records for both streaming and theatrical release.

During the week of its debut the finale drop generated 31.3 to 31.5 million views globally and helped Netflix achieve its most-watched New Year’s Day ever.

Music boost

Given the heavy use of 1980s pop classics in the last episode, it was inevitable that the tracks in question would get a spur in the music charts.

A number of songs that received an airing in the last ever episode of Stranger Things saw major chart gains this week: Prince’s “Purple Reign” soars from outside the top 100 up to No. 12; Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” moves to No. 14; The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” rises 41 places to No. 17 (its highest ranking in over 40 years); Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide” is up to No. 20; Diana Ross’ “Upside Down” rockets 60 places to No. 26; and Tiffany’s “I Think We’re Alone Now” moves to to No. 27.

The finale’s closing track, “Heroes” by David Bowie, also benefits with a placing at No. 34 — 172% week-on-week uplift, as per the Official Billboard Charts Company.

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