Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” Races Back to the Charts—Thanks, Stranger Things
When Stranger Things: Season 4 hit Netflix, Kate Bush’s 1985 anthem Running Up That Hill (Deal With God) suddenly found itself swaggering up the iTunes and Spotify rankings, as a new wave of listeners dove into the song after seeing it hit major screen moments.
Chart‑Slammer in the Mix
- May 29 Sunday: topped the iTunes chart according to the LA Times.
- currently ranked #13 on Spotify’s Daily Top 200.
- Google search interest skyrocketed as “Running Up That Hill” spiked in popularity.
Why the rush? The track was the lead single from Bush’s 1985 opus Hounds of Love and made a splash by debuting at number nine on the UK Singles Chart, eventually peaking at #3—a bright spot in the singer’s 1980s discography.
Across the pond, the song also broke in the US, marking Bush’s first Billboard Hot 100 entry since 1978 and delivering a top‑30 finish—a milestone that earned her recognition far beyond her regular fan base.
Quick Take:
Kate Bush’s classic has stepped back into the spotlight, all thanks to a modern TV show that plugged the 80s into the groovy playlists of 2025.

Running Up That Hill: A 1980s Time‑Traveling Throwback in Stranger Things
How the Classic Track Makes a Glorious Entrance
Picture this: Max Mayfield (Sadie Sink) pulling out her trusty Walkman in the Season 4 premiere, and the legendary Running Up That Hill blasts through the speakers. The song kicks off with that classic, energetic sound that instantly sends you back to the era where mixtapes ruled the world.
What Makes Stranger Things Hit After All These Years?
- Marvelous 80s vibes – think neon, synth, and the occasional hair‑dryer fuzz.
- Gripping supernatural twists that keep you on the edge of your seat.
- Totally relatable characters that feel like roommates you’d actually want over for a midnight snack.
Season 4 Streaming Breakdown
The first half of Stranger Things 4 is already streaming on Netflix, and you can catch the second half on July 1, 2022. If you’re feeling nostalgic, grab a seat and enjoy the full bump‑and‑crash soundtrack.
Feeling the ’80s Beat? Try This Spotify Playlist
Got that retro groove humming in your chest? Check out our Spotify selection of the classic pop‑culture hits that will whisk you back to the days of the Walkman. It’s the perfect soundtrack for a perfect Monday morning.
That’s it! Now you’re ready to dive back into the magic of early‑modern gaming, plus the deadly convenience of Stranger Things’ soundtrack.
