The act of singing, often used as a symbol of hope, connection, and defiance, plays a surprising role in Stranger Things. While not a musical by any stretch, several key scenes feature characters singing, solidifying emotional bonds and even combating the terrors of the Upside Down. The most iconic and impactful instance of singing occurs in Season 3, Episode 8, “The Battle of Starcourt,” where Dustin and Suzie sing “The NeverEnding Story” over the radio, a moment that provides a crucial mathematical constant, Planck’s Constant, to Joyce and Hopper to open the gate to the Upside Down. However, this is far from the only time characters find their voices.
Singing and Its Significance in Stranger Things
The instances of singing in Stranger Things, though relatively infrequent, are strategically placed and deeply meaningful. They’re rarely casual singalongs. Instead, they often serve as poignant displays of vulnerability, acts of bravery, or moments of unexpected levity amidst the prevailing darkness. The use of iconic 80s tunes further amplifies the show’s nostalgic charm, connecting with the audience on both an emotional and cultural level. The power of music, as demonstrated by these scenes, transcends the narrative, resonating with viewers long after the credits roll.
The Power of Shared Song
What makes these moments so memorable is the context surrounding them. In a world increasingly plagued by the terrifying forces of the Upside Down, the simple act of singing becomes an act of rebellion, a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the refusal to succumb to fear. It’s a reminder that even in the face of unimaginable horrors, there’s still room for joy, for friendship, and for the shared experience of music.
Identifying the Key Singing Episodes and Scenes
Beyond the “NeverEnding Story” moment, there are other notable instances of singing woven into the fabric of Stranger Things. These scenes may be less overtly plot-driven but are no less important in shaping the characters and furthering the narrative’s emotional depth.
- Season 1, Episode 3, “Holly, Jolly”: Joyce Byers sings Christmas carols, albeit in a manic state, desperately trying to communicate with Will through the Christmas lights. This is less a performance and more a cry for help, showcasing Winona Ryder’s incredible range.
- Season 3, Episode 1, “Suzie, Do You Copy?”: Before the climactic “NeverEnding Story” performance, Dustin boasts about his girlfriend Suzie’s singing ability, hinting at the musical talent to come. This builds anticipation and establishes the importance of their connection.
- Season 4, Episode 4, “Dear Billy”: While not precisely ‘singing’, Max Mayfield finds solace in listening to Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God).” The song becomes her lifeline, offering protection from Vecna and ultimately becoming a symbol of hope and survival. While not explicitly singing, the repeated playing of the song is central to the plot and arguably functions similarly to a character singing for her life.
- Occasional Karaoke: There are background scenes in later seasons where characters are at parties or social events, and karaoke may be playing, though these are rarely central to the plot. These mostly add to the authenticity of the 80s setting.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Musicality of Stranger Things
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the role of singing and music in Stranger Things:
1. Why is the “NeverEnding Story” scene so popular?
The “NeverEnding Story” scene resonated with audiences for several reasons. First, it’s a catchy and nostalgic song that evokes memories for many viewers. Second, it’s a moment of unexpected levity in a very tense and dark episode. Third, it’s a testament to the power of friendship and the importance of embracing silliness even in the face of danger. Finally, it directly contributes to saving the world.
2. Did Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin) and Gabriella Pizzolo (Suzie) actually sing the song?
Yes! Both Gaten Matarazzo and Gabriella Pizzolo are talented singers in real life. Their genuine enthusiasm and skill made the scene even more believable and endearing. Gaten Matarazzo has a successful Broadway career.
3. What is the significance of using “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” in Season 4?
The use of “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” is pivotal. It highlights Max’s vulnerability and inner turmoil while also acting as a shield against Vecna’s powers. The song’s themes of making a deal with God and wanting to swap places with someone else reflect Max’s guilt and desire to escape her past trauma. It showcases music as a tool for survival.
4. Does music play any other roles beyond just these specific singing scenes?
Absolutely. The entire soundtrack of Stranger Things is carefully curated to enhance the atmosphere, evoke nostalgia, and underscore emotional moments. The use of synth-heavy scores, iconic 80s tracks, and carefully selected needle drops creates a rich and immersive soundscape that is integral to the show’s identity.
5. How does the show choose which songs to feature?
The showrunners, the Duffer Brothers, have stated that they meticulously choose songs that fit the era, the mood, and the character’s emotional states. They consider the lyrics, the melody, and the overall cultural significance of each song to ensure it resonates with the audience and enhances the narrative. They often use songs they personally enjoy.
6. Are there any other memorable musical moments besides the singing?
Beyond the specific singing scenes, the use of songs like “Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash (significant for Will) and “Heroes” by Peter Gabriel (during emotional montages) are incredibly memorable and contribute significantly to the show’s emotional impact. The consistent use of specific themes by the show’s composers adds to the overall musicality.
7. Will there be more singing in future seasons of Stranger Things?
While there’s no guarantee, the show’s history suggests that music, and potentially singing, will continue to play a significant role in shaping the narrative and enhancing the emotional impact of future episodes. Given the positive reception of the past scenes, it’s likely the writers will continue to incorporate musically driven moments.
8. How does music contribute to the show’s 1980s aesthetic?
The music is crucial in establishing the show’s 1980s setting. The use of popular songs from the era, the synth-heavy scores, and the overall musical style transport viewers back to that decade, creating a nostalgic and immersive experience. Without this focus on accurately representing the music of the time, the show would lose some of its appeal.
9. Is there any behind-the-scenes information about the “NeverEnding Story” scene?
Yes, the actors have talked about how much fun they had filming the scene. It was reportedly one of the most enjoyable moments on set, despite the pressure of getting it right. The Duffer Brothers initially considered other songs but ultimately landed on “The NeverEnding Story” for its perfect blend of cheesiness and heartwarming nostalgia.
10. Does the use of music have a specific narrative purpose beyond entertainment?
Absolutely. Music is used to foreshadow events, highlight character traits, amplify emotional moments, and even provide clues about the underlying mysteries of the Upside Down. It’s a powerful storytelling tool that adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Music, as demonstrated with Max and Vecna, can act as a weapon.
11. What are some fan theories related to the music in Stranger Things?
Some fans theorize that certain songs are connected to specific characters or events in the Upside Down, suggesting that music may have a deeper, more symbolic meaning within the show’s mythology. Others believe that certain songs are “trapped” in the Upside Down, echoing from the real world and influencing events in the alternate dimension.
12. How can I learn more about the music featured in Stranger Things?
Numerous online resources, including music streaming platforms, dedicated fan sites, and articles by music critics, offer in-depth analyses of the Stranger Things soundtrack. These resources provide information about the artists, the history of the songs, and their significance within the context of the show. Many platforms offer curated playlists based on the show.
In conclusion, while Stranger Things isn’t a musical, the carefully chosen and strategically placed instances of singing – most notably in Season 3, Episode 8 – significantly enhance the narrative, deepen character development, and underscore the emotional resonance of the series. The power of music, evident in these scenes and throughout the soundtrack, is undeniable and contributes significantly to the show’s enduring appeal.