Joe Keery: From Stranger Things Heartthrob to Indie Music Darling (Djo)

Aug 03, 2025

The Evolution of Joe Keery: More Than Just Steve Harrington

Joe Keery. The name conjures images of Steve Harrington, the lovable, hair-product-obsessed babysitter from Netflix's global phenomenon, Stranger Things. But beneath the perfectly coiffed exterior lies a multifaceted artist with a genuine passion for music. This article delves into Joe Keery's fascinating transformation from a beloved television actor to a respected figure in the indie music scene, exploring his journey, influences, and the artistic vision behind his project, Djo.

From Garage Bands to Global Stages: Keery's Musical Beginnings

Before captivating audiences with his acting prowess, Joe Keery harbored a deep love for music. His musical journey began in his hometown of Newburyport, Massachusetts, where he honed his skills playing in various garage bands. These early experiences laid the foundation for his future endeavors, providing him with invaluable lessons in collaboration, songwriting, and performance. One of his notable early bands was Post Animal, a psychedelic rock band formed in 2014.

Post Animal: The Early Years of Musical Exploration

As a member of Post Animal, Keery contributed guitar and vocals, immersing himself in the vibrant Chicago music scene. The band's sound, characterized by its swirling psychedelia and infectious energy, quickly gained a following. Their music provided Keery with a platform to experiment with different sounds and styles, allowing him to develop his unique musical voice. Being involved in a band environment offered Keery experience in navigating the dynamics of a group, contributing to the writing process, and performing live. While he eventually stepped back from touring with Post Animal due to his acting commitments, the experience remained formative.

Post Animal formed in 2014.
Joe Keery contributed guitar and vocals.
The band's sound is characterized as psychedelic rock.
Keery gained invaluable experience in songwriting and performance.

Djo: The Birth of a Musical Persona

In 2019, Joe Keery embarked on a solo musical venture under the moniker Djo. This project marked a significant departure from his work with Post Animal, showcasing his versatility and artistic vision. Djo's music is a captivating blend of psychedelic pop, indie rock, and synth-driven melodies, creating a unique and immersive sonic landscape. Keery writes, produces, and performs all the music himself, showcasing complete artistic control.

Twenty Twenty: Djo's Debut Album and Critical Acclaim

Djo's debut album, Twenty Twenty, released in 2019, garnered widespread critical acclaim. The album's quirky, synth-laden sound and introspective lyrics resonated with listeners, establishing Djo as a rising force in the indie music scene. Tracks like "Roddy" and "Chateau (Feel Alright)" became instant favorites, showcasing Keery's knack for crafting catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics. Twenty Twenty established Djo as more than a celebrity side project, it was a genuine artistic statement. The album highlighted Keery’s production skills, further solidifying his reputation as a serious musician.

Twenty Twenty was released in 2019.
The album received critical acclaim.
Genres include psychedelic pop, indie rock, and synth-driven melodies.
Notable tracks include "Roddy" and "Chateau (Feel Alright)".

DECIDE: Expanding Horizons and Refining the Sound

In 2022, Djo released his highly anticipated second album, DECIDE. This album saw Keery further refine his sound, exploring themes of personal growth, identity, and the complexities of modern life. DECIDE builds on the foundations laid by Twenty Twenty, showcasing even more mature songwriting and production. The album’s cohesiveness and sonic depth demonstrates the growth of Djo as an artist. Songs like "Change" and "End of Beginning" further solidified his position in the indie music landscape and were viral hits on social media. His live performances surrounding the album's release, including a slot at Lollapalooza, were well-received and highlighted his stage presence and musical talent.

DECIDE was released in 2022.
The album explores themes of personal growth and identity.
Songs like "Change" and "End of Beginning" were well received.
Djo performed at Lollapalooza.

The Musical Influences Shaping Djo's Sound

Djo's music is a tapestry woven from a diverse range of influences, reflecting Keery's eclectic taste and musical sensibilities. From the psychedelic textures of Tame Impala to the synth-pop sensibilities of MGMT, Djo draws inspiration from a wide spectrum of artists. Understanding these influences provides valuable insight into the creative process behind Djo's music. His production techniques often emulate artists like Kevin Parker of Tame Impala, while his vocal delivery is at times reminiscent of Julian Casablancas of The Strokes.

Exploring Key Influences: A Deeper Dive

To further understand Djo's musical identity, it's crucial to explore some of his key influences in more detail:

Tame Impala: The swirling psychedelia and dreamy soundscapes of Tame Impala are evident in Djo's production style.
MGMT: The synth-pop sensibilities and catchy melodies of MGMT resonate throughout Djo's music.
The Beatles: The timeless songwriting and innovative arrangements of The Beatles serve as a constant source of inspiration.
Pink Floyd: The experimental and atmospheric soundscapes of Pink Floyd influence Djo's approach to creating immersive sonic experiences.

Djo's Unique Approach to Songwriting and Production

One of the defining characteristics of Djo's music is his unique approach to songwriting and production. Keery is heavily involved in every aspect of the creative process, from writing the lyrics to crafting the arrangements and mixing the final product. This hands-on approach allows him to maintain complete artistic control over his music, ensuring that each track reflects his vision. His dedication to the production aspect truly shapes the overall sound, giving his music a distinctive feel that separates it from many other indie artists. His usage of vintage synthesizers and analog recording techniques contributes to the texture and warmth that define his signature sound.

The Role of Technology in Djo's Creative Process

While Djo embraces analog recording techniques, he also utilizes technology to enhance his creative process. He experiments with various software and plugins, pushing the boundaries of sound design and exploring new sonic textures. This fusion of analog warmth and digital precision allows him to create a unique and captivating sonic landscape. Keery’s ability to blend both vintage and modern technology into his production process allows for a sound that's both familiar and innovative. His comfort and proficiency with production software allows him to create intricate soundscapes that complement his lyrics.

Djo's Live Performances: Captivating Audiences On Stage

Djo's live performances are a testament to his passion and dedication to his craft. He brings an infectious energy to the stage, captivating audiences with his charismatic presence and engaging performances. Backed by a talented band, Djo delivers dynamic and unforgettable shows that leave a lasting impression. Experiencing Djo live offers a different perspective on his music, adding a visual dimension that enhances the listening experience. The energy and stage presence of the band are crucial to the experience, transforming his songs into amplified live performances.

Notable Performances and Festival Appearances

Djo has graced the stages of numerous festivals and venues, captivating audiences with his electrifying performances. Some of his notable appearances include:

Lollapalooza: Djo's performance at Lollapalooza in 2022 was a highlight, showcasing his ability to command a large crowd.
Austin City Limits: His set at Austin City Limits further solidified his reputation as a must-see live act.
Various Club Shows: Djo has also performed at numerous club shows, providing fans with intimate and up-close experiences.

Joe Keery: Balancing Acting and Music

One of the most remarkable aspects of Joe Keery's career is his ability to seamlessly balance his acting career with his musical pursuits. He navigates the demands of both worlds with grace and dedication, proving that it is possible to excel in multiple artistic disciplines. Keery has stated in interviews that music provides him with a creative outlet that acting doesn't always provide, and vice-versa. This balance provides him with artistic fulfillment and allows him to approach both fields with renewed energy and perspective.

The Challenges and Rewards of a Dual Career

Balancing a successful acting career with a burgeoning music career is not without its challenges. Keery faces the constant demands of scheduling conflicts, travel, and public attention. However, he also reaps the rewards of creative fulfillment, artistic expression, and the opportunity to connect with audiences on multiple levels. The challenge lies in managing time and energy effectively, as both careers require significant commitment. The reward is the ability to explore different facets of his artistic personality and connect with fans through different mediums.

Djo's Impact on the Indie Music Scene

Djo's emergence on the indie music scene has been met with enthusiasm and acclaim. His unique sound, captivating performances, and genuine passion for music have resonated with audiences, earning him a dedicated following. He is proving that you can have a successful acting career and a successful musical one. His success has also helped to break down the stigma of actors venturing into music, demonstrating that talent and artistry can transcend conventional boundaries. His influence is most evident in the increasing number of young artists who are embracing multiple creative disciplines.

The Future of Djo: What Lies Ahead?

As Djo continues to evolve as an artist, the future holds immense potential. With each new release and performance, he expands his reach and solidifies his position in the indie music landscape. The journey from Steve Harrington to Djo has been a remarkable one, and the next chapter promises to be even more exciting. Keery has demonstrated a dedication to his craft, constantly pushing his creative boundaries and seeking new ways to connect with his audience. His evolution as a songwriter and producer will continue to shape his music, and his live performances will undoubtedly become even more captivating.

The Enduring Appeal of Joe Keery/Djo

The enduring appeal of Joe Keery, both as an actor and a musician, lies in his authenticity and genuine passion. He embodies the spirit of artistic exploration, constantly pushing the boundaries of his creativity and challenging expectations. Whether he's captivating audiences on screen as Steve Harrington or captivating them on stage as Djo, Joe Keery remains a true artist, dedicated to his craft and committed to sharing his vision with the world. His journey is an inspiration to aspiring artists, proving that passion, hard work, and a genuine love for your craft can lead to success in multiple fields.

Djo and The Power of TikTok

Djo’s rise in popularity, especially with the release of *DECIDE*, is significantly intertwined with the power of TikTok. Several tracks from the album went viral on the platform, contributing substantially to his increased listenership and overall fame. This section delves into how TikTok impacted Djo’s musical career.

"End of Beginning": A TikTok Sensation

Arguably, the most successful example of Djo’s TikTok virality is the song "End of Beginning." Its dreamy, melancholic soundscape became a popular backdrop for various video content, ranging from personal stories and aesthetic montages to travel vlogs and nostalgic reflections. The song's emotional resonance connected with a wide audience, turning it into a viral trend.

TikTok as a Discovery Platform

TikTok’s algorithm excels at exposing users to new music and artists, making it a prime platform for musical discovery. Djo's music, with its unique blend of indie-pop sensibilities and catchy hooks, proved to be perfectly suited for the platform’s short-form video format. The ease of sharing and creating content around his songs allowed for rapid and widespread dissemination.

Impact on Streaming Numbers

The TikTok virality directly translated into significant increases in Djo’s streaming numbers on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. As users discovered his music through TikTok, they were more likely to seek out his other songs and albums on these streaming services, leading to a surge in listenership.

Engaging with Fans on TikTok

While the initial virality was organic, Djo and his team have also leveraged TikTok to engage with fans directly. This included creating their own content featuring his music, participating in trends, and responding to fan comments. This active engagement further amplified his presence on the platform and solidified his connection with his audience.

The Double-Edged Sword of Virality

While TikTok virality has been undeniably beneficial to Djo’s career, it also presents certain challenges. The focus on a few viral songs can sometimes overshadow the rest of his discography. It is crucial for Djo to continue creating high-quality music and maintain a consistent presence on the platform to ensure long-term success beyond the fleeting nature of viral trends.

The Authenticity Factor: Why Fans Connect with Djo

In an age of carefully curated online personas and manufactured pop stars, Djo's authenticity shines through. This authenticity is a key reason why fans connect with his music and his overall artistic persona.

Genuine Passion for Music

It’s clear that Djo’s musical endeavors are not merely a celebrity side project. He demonstrates a genuine passion for music creation, from songwriting and production to performing live. This passion is palpable in his music and resonates with listeners who appreciate authenticity.

Unpretentious Artistic Expression

Djo doesn’t try to be something he’s not. His music is unpretentious and reflects his unique perspective on the world. This honesty and vulnerability are appealing to fans who are tired of overly polished and manufactured music.

Relatability

Despite his fame, Djo remains relatable to his fans. His lyrics often explore universal themes of identity, relationships, and personal growth, making his music accessible and emotionally resonant.

Commitment to Craft

Djo's commitment to his craft is evident in his dedication to songwriting, production, and performance. He constantly strives to improve his skills and create the best possible music, which is appreciated by fans who value hard work and dedication.

In conclusion, Joe Keery's journey from a *Stranger Things* heartthrob to the indie music darling Djo, is a testament to his talent, versatility, and genuine passion for artistic expression. Through Djo he has created a unique musical presence, and his continuing evolution promises an exciting future for his fans.