Joe Keery, widely recognized for his role as Steve Harrington in the Netflix series Stranger Things, has achieved significant success in the music industry under his stage name, Djo. His 2024 single "End of Beginning" has recently surged in popularity, reaching the top of various music charts and dethroning major artists like Taylor Swift.
Originally released as part of Djo's 2022 album Decide, "End of Beginning" gained traction in 2024, particularly on TikTok, where users featured the song in videos showcasing their hometowns. This viral trend propelled the track to debut at number 51 on the US Billboard Hot 100, eventually peaking at number 11. In the UK, the song climbed to number 4 on the Official Singles Chart. The track's nostalgic electro sound and themes of returning to Chicago resonated with a broad audience. (en.wikipedia.org)
In early 2025, Keery announced his third studio album, The Crux, set for release on April 4, 2025. The album's lead single, "Basic Being Basic," was unveiled on January 24, 2025, showcasing a synth-heavy groove and introspective lyrics. Keery described the song as a reflection on identity and finding contentment in simplicity. (music.mxdwn.com)
To promote The Crux, Djo embarked on the "Back on You World Tour," commencing on February 6, 2025, at the Laneway Festival in Auckland. The tour included 70 shows across Oceania, North America, and Europe, concluding in Los Angeles on October 21, 2025. Keery's former band, Post Animal, served as the opening act for most US and European dates. (en.wikipedia.org)
The album received positive reviews, with critics praising its exploration of themes like identity and self-discovery. The cover art, designed by art director William Wesley II, was nominated for the 2026 Grammy Award for Best Album Cover. (en.wikipedia.org)
Keery's dual success in acting and music underscores his versatility as an artist. His ability to transition from a beloved television character to a chart-topping musician highlights his multifaceted talent and broad appeal.