Joe Keery, best known as Steve Harrington from Stranger Things, is making waves in the music scene under the pseudonym Djo. His track “End of Beginning” recently soared to viral fame on TikTok, catapulting him onto the Billboard charts and amplifying interest in his musical endeavors. Surprisingly, Keery attributes part of the song’s success to Jeremy Allen White and the popular FX series, The Bear.
Released in 2022, “End of Beginning” gained traction after fans of The Bear started creating compilation edits featuring the song. Keery’s lyrics resonated with the show’s narrative, particularly with Carmy’s storyline returning to his Chicago roots. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Keery acknowledged White’s influence, stating, “I feel like I owe Jeremy Allen White.”
The song’s popularity transcended The Bear edits, becoming a sensation on TikTok. It found resonance in videos capturing emotional moments, college experiences, and hometown pride.
TikTokers also reacted to discovering Keery’s musical talent, fueling further virality. Despite its newfound context, “End of Beginning” remains a personal ode to Keery’s connection with Chicago, inspired by his college days at DePaul University.
Keery’s burgeoning music career doesn’t eclipse his acting prowess. He’s set to reprise his role in Stranger Things Season 5, currently in production.
Additionally, he stars alongside Liam Neeson in the upcoming film Cold Storage, slated for 2025. Keery’s versatility as a performer shines through, and his collaboration with White feels like a natural fit, amplifying his musical journey.
Fans can explore Keery’s music under Djo, with his latest album Decide available on major streaming platforms. Meanwhile, Stranger Things continues to captivate audiences on Netflix, offering a glimpse into Keery’s multifaceted talent. As he navigates both music and acting, Keery’s artistic evolution promises exciting ventures ahead.
