Recommendations of the Editorial team
The soundtrack, steeped in the spirit of the 1980s, has always been central to the success of Stranger Things. Netflix went particularly big for the last season. Two songs from “Purple Rain” were heard in the series finale. “When Doves Cry” and the title track “Purple Rain”. Other songs used this season include Michael Jackson, ABBA, the Psychedelic Furs and other artists.
Publication and formats
As with previous seasons, the soundtrack for season five will be released on vinyl, CD and – probably most nostalgically – cassette. Sony Music, which is responsible for the physical release, kept the fifth season’s vinyl tracklist under wraps until the series finale on New Year’s Eve. Presumably to avoid song-related spoilers. After the finale, Sony finally released the full tracklist for Season 5.
Purchase options and editions
In addition to the exclusive editions on Amazon, there was a now sold out Target edition in the color “Sea Blue Smoke” and a “Yellow Marble” edition from Sony Music. The vinyl edition contains a total of 13 tracks. These include David Bowie’s “Heroes”, “Here Comes Your Man” by the Pixies, “The Trooper” by Iron Maiden and “Pretty In Pink” by the Psychedelic Furs. The two songs from “Purple Rain” are not included on the vinyl release.
Success of the soundtrack
The vinyl edition and the other physical formats will be released on January 30th. But they can already be pre-ordered now. Other retailers bring different color versions of the record onto the market. The enormous success of “Stranger Things” has significantly increased the streaming numbers of many artists involved over the years. A particularly well-known example is Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill”, after which the otherwise reclusive singer publicly thanked the new fans who had discovered her music.
Streaming increases after the final
The finale of Stranger Things also provided a significant boost to Prince’s catalog. According to Variety, streaming numbers for “When Doves Cry” and “Purple Rain” more than doubled after the finale aired.
Full Vinyl Tracklist Season 5
Side A
Rockin’ Robin – Michael Jackson
I Think We’re Alone Now – Tiffany
Fernando – ABBA
Mr. Sandman – The Chordettes
Pretty In Pink – The Psychedelic Furs
Heroes – David Bowie
Side B
The Trooper – Iron Maiden
Here Comes Your Man – Pixies
Sh-Boom – The Chords
Oh yeah – Yello
Human Cannonball – Butthole Surfers
Heart and Soul – Floyd Cramer
Sweet Jane – Cowboy Junkies