The Duffer Brothers and Kate Bush: A Musical Collaboration in "Stranger Things"
The creative minds behind the hit series Stranger Things, the Duffer Brothers, have maintained a unique connection with iconic artist Kate Bush since her song "Running Up That Hill" became a pivotal part of the show’s narrative. As the fifth and final season approaches its release on November 26, 2023, fans are buzzing with excitement over the news that this viral 1980s hit will make a return.
The Genesis of a Viral Moment
In an exclusive interview, Matt and Ross Duffer shared insights into how the unforgettable musical moment came to fruition. The brothers, along with their music supervisor Nora, curated a playlist specifically for Max Mayfield, portrayed by Sadie Sink. This playlist was designed to reflect what they believed Max would be listening to, and "Running Up That Hill" emerged as a standout choice.
The Duffer Brothers explained, “It was the one song that appeared on everyone’s playlist, which is how we ended up choosing it.” Their goal was to select tracks that viewers wouldn’t immediately associate with other pop-culture phenomena, and Bush’s song fit the bill perfectly. It resonated with the show’s themes and characters, making it an ideal choice.
A Resurgence of Popularity
The impact of "Running Up That Hill" was nothing short of phenomenal. After its feature in Stranger Things Season 4, the song skyrocketed to number one in the UK charts for the first time in 37 years, setting records for the longest climb to the top position. During its viral peak in 2022, over 2 million TikTok videos utilized the song, showcasing its newfound relevance among younger audiences.
Kate Bush’s Reaction
The Duffer Brothers revealed that they had been in contact with Kate Bush, who expressed her excitement about the resurgence of her music. “She liked that it found a new audience on TikTok,” they noted, adding that she seemed somewhat unfamiliar with the platform itself. Their correspondence eventually led to an in-person meeting, which the brothers described as “amazing.” They found her to be exactly what they had hoped for, embodying the enigmatic spirit that has made her a beloved figure in music.
The Future of Stranger Things
As the Duffer Brothers prepare to conclude the Stranger Things saga with its fifth season, they have also hinted at the franchise’s future. While this season will wrap up the storylines of Hawkins and its characters, the brothers confirmed that the Stranger Things universe will continue to expand. “It’s the end of the story of Hawkins and these characters that we’ve established,” they stated, but they are excited about new projects on the horizon.
One such project is an animated spin-off titled Tales From 85, set for release in 2026. This new series promises to retain the essence of Stranger Things while introducing fresh characters and mythology, allowing fans to explore a different facet of the beloved universe.
The Enduring Legacy of Music in Stranger Things
The Duffer Brothers’ thoughtful integration of music into Stranger Things has not only enhanced the storytelling but has also created lasting connections between the show and its audience. The return of "Running Up That Hill" in the final season serves as a testament to the power of music in evoking emotions and memories, bridging generations of fans.
As anticipation builds for the final season, the collaboration between the Duffer Brothers and Kate Bush stands as a remarkable example of how art can transcend time, bringing together diverse audiences through shared experiences. The legacy of Stranger Things will undoubtedly continue to resonate, both through its characters and the unforgettable soundtrack that has become synonymous with the series.
