The haunting melodies, the electrifying synth waves, the perfectly placed needle drops – the music of Stranger Things has always been as crucial to the show's success as its compelling narrative. Season four, however, took the soundtrack to a whole new level, weaving iconic tracks into unforgettable scenes and introducing incredible new compositions. If you're a fan desperate to relive the thrills, chills, and emotional rollercoaster of the season, or simply searching for some killer tunes to add to your playlist, you've come to the right place. This definitive list dives into the best songs from Stranger Things season 4, exploring the emotional resonance of each selection and why they perfectly capture the essence of the Upside Down and the courageous hearts battling within it. Prepare to rediscover your favorites and unearth some hidden gems that will leave you breathless. Whether you're a seasoned headbanger or a casual listener, this guide will satisfy your craving for the season's most unforgettable musical moments.
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. You Spin me 'round | Dead Or Alive | 288M+ | |
| 2. Running Up That Hill | Kate Bush | Hounds Of Love | 274M+ |
| 3. Psycho Killer | Talking Heads | Talking Heads '77 (Deluxe Version) | 151M+ |
| 4. Rock Me Amadeus | Falco | 83M+ | |
| 5. Pass the Dutchie | Musical Youth | 49M+ | |
| 6. Detroit Rock City | KISS | Dressed To Kill | 34M+ |
| 7. Object of My Desire | Starpoint | 8M+ |
1. You Spin me 'round (Dead Or Alive)
Synth-Pop Perfection: Dead or Alive's "You Spin Me Round" delivers a quintessential 80s synth-pop sound, perfectly capturing the decade's vibrant energy that resonates so well within the Stranger Things aesthetic.
Nostalgic Vibe: The song's infectious beat and memorable melody evoke a potent sense of nostalgia, transporting listeners back to a specific time and place, aligning with the show's retro feel.
Unforgettable Hook: The instantly recognizable hook is undeniably catchy and contributes to the song's overall memorability – a perfect addition to the show's already iconic soundtrack.
2. Running Up That Hill (Hounds Of Love)
Kate Bush's Vocals: Kate Bush's distinctive, soaring vocals are perfectly suited to the emotional intensity of the scene in Stranger Things, adding a layer of haunting beauty.
Synth Soundscape: The song's ethereal synth sounds and driving beat create an atmosphere of suspense and otherworldly mystery, fitting the show's supernatural themes.
Nostalgia Factor: Its resurgence in popularity thanks to Stranger Things introduces a new generation to this 80s classic, making it a truly unforgettable moment in pop culture.
3. Psycho Killer (1977)
Sound: The unsettling yet catchy rhythm and David Byrne's distinctive vocal delivery create a uniquely unnerving atmosphere perfectly suited to the show's darker moments.
Emotional Impact: Its unsettling lyrics and repetitive structure contribute to the suspense and psychological tension that defines Stranger Things Season 4.
Pop Culture Resonance: "Psycho Killer" already possesses a cult following, and its inclusion in the show only amplified its iconic status, solidifying its place in the season's soundtrack.
4. Rock Me Amadeus
Synth-driven 80s Sound: Falco's instantly recognizable, driving synth lines and powerful beat perfectly capture the ominous yet exhilarating atmosphere of Stranger Things Season 4, fitting the show's retro aesthetic.
Unforgettable Vocals: Falco's distinctive vocals add a layer of dramatic intensity, complementing the season's heightened tension and suspenseful moments.
Unexpected Choice, Perfect Placement: The song's unexpectedness within the context of the show adds to its impact, becoming a memorable and fitting soundtrack choice for a pivotal scene.
5. Pass the Dutchie (Musical Youth)
Nostalgia Factor: Pass the Dutchie's reggae-infused sound perfectly captures the laid-back yet thrilling vibe of 80s nostalgia, fitting seamlessly into the Stranger Things aesthetic.
Upbeat Energy: The song's infectious rhythm and catchy melody provide a welcome burst of upbeat energy, contrasting nicely with the show's darker moments.
Cultural Significance: Its appearance in the show underscores the song's enduring popularity and its ability to evoke a specific time and feeling, adding another layer to the Stranger Things soundtrack.
6. Detroit Rock City (1976)
Sound: KISS's signature hard rock sound, with its powerful guitar riffs and driving rhythm, perfectly captures the frenetic energy of Stranger Things Season 4's darker moments.
Emotional Impact: The song's relentless pace and rebellious lyrics evoke a sense of thrilling danger and escape, mirroring the show's high-stakes situations.
Pop Culture Moment: Its inclusion in the soundtrack underscores the show's masterful blend of 80s nostalgia and thrilling suspense.
7. Object of My Desire (Starpoint - 1985)
Sound: "Object of My Desire" features a driving, synth-heavy sound perfectly capturing the 80s nostalgia and suspenseful atmosphere prevalent in Stranger Things Season 4.
Emotional Impact: The song's melancholic yet hopeful melody underscores the complex emotions of the characters, enhancing the show's dramatic tension and emotional resonance.
Pop Culture Moment: Its inclusion in a pivotal scene amplifies its impact, becoming intrinsically linked to a key moment in the season and solidifying its place in the show's soundtrack.
8. Fire and Rain - Sweet Baby James (2019 Remaster)
Haunting Melody: James Taylor's melancholic vocals and the song's understated instrumentation perfectly capture the season's somber and reflective moments, adding to the emotional weight of several key scenes.
Nostalgic Vibe: "Fire and Rain" evokes a sense of longing and wistful remembrance, aligning with the show's exploration of the past and its impact on the present.
Emotional Resonance: The song's raw emotionality complements the intense emotional journeys of the characters in Stranger Things season 4, making it a powerful and unforgettable addition to the soundtrack.
9. Travelin’ Man - 1961
Sound: Ricky Nelson's "Travelin' Man" perfectly captures the nostalgic, slightly melancholic vibe of 1950s rock and roll, fitting seamlessly into the atmospheric backdrop of Stranger Things Season 4.
Vocals: Nelson's signature smooth vocals and heartfelt delivery add a layer of emotional depth, complementing the show's exploration of complex relationships and coming-of-age themes.
Emotional Impact: The song's yearning lyrics about longing for home and adventure resonate with the characters' journeys and the overall sense of uncertainty and longing prevalent in the season.
10. Play with Me (1989)
Synth Sounds: Extreme's "Play with Me" features a distinctive, driving synth line that perfectly captures the 80s nostalgia prevalent in Stranger Things Season 4, adding to the show's retro vibe.
Upbeat Tempo: The song's energetic tempo and powerful rhythm create a sense of urgency and excitement, mirroring many of the high-stakes moments in the season.
Nostalgic Vibe: Its blend of 80s hard rock and synth-pop makes it a fitting soundtrack for the show's darker, more intense scenes, enhancing the emotional impact.
11Dream A Little Dream Of Me
Ella Fitzgerald,Louis Armstrong
1950
The World We Knew
12I Was a Teenage Werewolf
The Cramps
1980
13Wipeout
The Surfaris
1963