The synth-heavy soundtrack of Stranger Things has become as iconic as the show itself, instantly transporting listeners back to the nostalgic 80s and amplifying the show's suspenseful and emotional moments. Finding the best songs from Stranger Things amongst the plethora of incredible tracks used throughout the seasons can feel overwhelming, but fear not! This curated list dives deep into the show's musical tapestry, exploring both the instantly recognizable hits and the hidden gems that perfectly capture the series' unique atmosphere. Whether you're a die-hard fan looking to revisit your favorite moments or a newcomer curious about the music that makes Stranger Things so captivating, this definitive ranking will satisfy your craving for that perfect blend of 80s nostalgia and thrilling suspense. Get ready to crank up the volume and rediscover why the soundtrack is as much a character as Eleven herself.
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Every Breath You Take | The Police | Synchronicity (Remastered 2003) | 1B+ |
| 2. Africa | TOTO | Toto IV | 1B+ |
| 3. Time After Time | Cyndi Lauper | She's So Unusual | 529M+ |
| 4. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go | Wham! | 493M+ | |
| 5. Running Up That Hill | Kate Bush | Hounds Of Love | 274M+ |
| 6. Can't Fight This Feeling | REO Speedwagon | Wheels Are Turnin' | 196M+ |
| 7. Material Girl | Madonna | True Blue | 179M+ |
1. Every Breath You Take
Chillingly Catchy Melody: The iconic, almost unsettlingly pleasant melody of "Every Breath You Take" perfectly underscores the show's suspenseful and often dark atmosphere, creating a sense of unease that lingers long after the song ends.
Synth-Driven 80s Vibe: Its signature synth sounds and driving bassline are instantly recognizable and evoke the specific aesthetic of the 1980s, fitting seamlessly into the show's retro setting and adding another layer to its nostalgic feel.
Unsettling Undertones: While seemingly romantic on the surface, the lyrics' possessive and controlling nature add a layer of unease that mirrors the complex relationships and hidden dangers present throughout the show, making it a perfect thematic choice.
2. Africa (Toto IV)
Synth Soundscapes: Africa's iconic synthesizers create a vast, atmospheric soundscape perfectly complementing the show's often melancholic and nostalgic tone.
Unforgettable Hook: The instantly recognizable chorus and driving rhythm provide an energetic counterpoint to the show's darker moments, adding a layer of vibrant 80s nostalgia.
Nostalgic Vibe: Its blend of yearning vocals and powerful instrumentation evokes a sense of longing and adventure, fitting the emotional core of Stranger Things' narrative.
3. Time After Time
Synth-Pop Nostalgia: Cyndi Lauper's instantly recognizable vocals and the song's driving synth-pop beat perfectly capture the 80s vibe prevalent in Stranger Things, adding an authentic layer to the show's soundtrack.
Emotional Resonance: "Time After Time" delivers a powerful message of unwavering support and enduring love, themes that resonate deeply with the emotional core of the Stranger Things narrative.
Scene-Setting Potential: The song's melancholic yet hopeful undertones evoke a sense of longing and mystery, making it ideal background music for both heartwarming and suspenseful moments in the show's atmosphere.
4. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go
Synth-Pop Perfection: Wham!'s signature 80s synth-pop sound perfectly encapsulates the vibrant, nostalgic feel of Stranger Things, transporting listeners back to that decade's iconic aesthetic.
Upbeat Energy: The relentlessly upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm create an undeniable energy that matches the show's thrilling moments and adds to the overall excitement.
Nostalgic Charm: "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" evokes a specific era of pop culture, aligning with Stranger Things' focus on 80s nostalgia and making it a perfect soundtrack addition.
5. Running Up That Hill (Hounds Of Love - 1985)
Iconic 80s Sound: Kate Bush's signature ethereal vocals and otherworldly synth soundscapes perfectly capture the haunting atmosphere of Stranger Things, adding a layer of nostalgic mystery to the show.
Emotional Resonance: The song's themes of sacrifice and longing resonate deeply with the show's emotional core, enhancing the dramatic tension and underlying sadness of key moments.
Max Mayfield's Journey: Its use in the show powerfully underscores Max's struggle with trauma and her desperate fight for survival, making it an unforgettable part of the narrative.
6. Can't Fight This Feeling (REO Speedwagon - 1984)
80s Vibe: "Can't Fight This Feeling" perfectly captures the yearning and romantic energy of the 1980s, a sound that resonates strongly with the nostalgic atmosphere of *Stranger Things*.
Power Ballad Perfection: REO Speedwagon's signature power ballad style, complete with soaring vocals and anthemic chorus, creates a dramatic and emotionally charged listening experience fitting for the show's intense moments.
Emotional Resonance: The song's themes of longing and unwavering devotion add a layer of bittersweet romance, enhancing the emotional depth of scenes in which it might be featured.
7. Material Girl (True Blue - 1984)
Synth Sounds: Material Girl's iconic synth riff provides a perfect 80s backdrop, creating a retro vibe that fits seamlessly into the Stranger Things aesthetic.
Vocal Delivery: Madonna's confident and sassy vocals perfectly capture the decade's spirit, adding to the show's blend of nostalgia and dark undertones.
Cultural Resonance: The song's theme of materialism subtly reflects the underlying tensions and social dynamics often explored in Stranger Things, making it a thematically relevant addition to the soundtrack.
8. Psycho Killer (1977)
Unsettling Vibe: "Psycho Killer" perfectly captures the unsettling atmosphere of *Stranger Things*, its quirky rhythm and David Byrne's detached vocals creating a sense of creeping unease that fits the show's supernatural themes.
Iconic Status: The song's instantly recognizable bassline and unsettling lyrics have cemented its place in pop culture history, adding to its impact within the show's soundtrack.
Nostalgic 80s Sound: Its signature new wave sound is intrinsically linked to the 80s setting of *Stranger Things*, enhancing the show's retro aesthetic and adding another layer to its captivating soundtrack.
9. Separate Ways (1983)
Synth Soundscapes: Journey's signature soaring synths create a nostalgic, 80s-infused atmosphere perfectly complementing the show's retro vibe.
Emotional Resonance: The bittersweet lyrics about separation and longing resonate deeply with the show's themes of loss and longing, enhancing the emotional weight of certain scenes.
Iconic Status: Its inclusion elevates the already strong soundtrack, adding a layer of familiarity and emotional depth for viewers who recognize this classic rock anthem.
10. American Pie (1971)
Haunting Melody: Don McLean's instantly recognizable vocals and the song's melancholic melody create a perfect atmosphere of mystery and nostalgia, fitting the show's overall tone.
Nostalgic Vibes: "American Pie" evokes a sense of a bygone era, aligning with the show's exploration of the past and its impact on the present.
Cultural Significance: The song's enduring legacy and its place in popular culture add another layer of intrigue, making its inclusion in *Stranger Things* particularly resonant.
11Love Is A Battlefield
Pat Benatar
1983
The Collection
12Ghostbusters
Ray Parker Jr.
1984
The Runaways
13I Melt With You
Modern English
1982
14Rock You Like A Hurricane
Scorpions
1984
Love At First Sting
15Waiting for a Girl like You
Foreigner
1981
4 (Expanded)
16Heroes
David Bowie
1977
"Heroes" (2017 Remaster)
17Never Ending Story
Limahl
1984
Don't Suppose
18Detroit Rock City
KISS
1976
Dressed To Kill
19Subdivisions
Rush
1982
Signals
20Whip It
DEVO
1980
Freedom of Choice
21Hazy Shade of Winter
The Bangles
1987
22Master Of Puppets
Metallica
1986
Master of Puppets (Remastered Deluxe Box Set)
23Should I Stay or Should I Go
The Clash
1982
Combat Rock (Remastered)
24Shout at the Devil
Mötley Crüe
1983
Shout At The Devil
25Cold as Ice
Foreigner
1977
Foreigner (Expanded)
26Turn Around, Look at Me
The Vogues
1968
27California Dreamin'
The Beach Boys
1965
28Dead Man’s Party
Oingo Boingo
1985
29The Bargain Store
Dolly Parton
1975