Coachella Insights Series: Djo

Every year, hundreds of thousands of music fans go to Coachella to witness some of the most defining performances in their favorite artists' careers. As demonstrated for countless artists, a standout Coachella performance can launch an artist directly into superstardom. Ahead of this year's festival, the Venice team has carefully analyzed the lineup to spotlight artists we believe are primed for their breakout moments. Welcome to our Coachella Insights Series—giving our members an exclusive glimpse at music's next big names and the strategy that's propelled their career.

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From Stranger Things to Coachella 2025 – A Strategic Evolution

Introduction

Joe Keery, known professionally as Djo, is a multi-hyphenate talent, seamlessly transitioning from his acting success in Stranger Things to an increasingly prominent career as a musician. While many actors struggle to be taken seriously in the music industry, Keery has carefully carved out a space for himself, crafting a unique artistic identity separate from his Hollywood persona.

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With his highly anticipated performance at Coachella 2025, Djo's journey from indie experiment to festival headliner highlights a strategic, deliberate evolution that independent artists can learn from. His story is one of musical reinvention, leveraging digital platforms, and staying true to an authentic creative vision.

Background: The Foundations of a Musician

Keery’s music career began before his breakout role as Steve Harrington on Stranger Things. He was an integral member of Post Animal, a Chicago-based psych-rock band known for their gritty yet melodic sound. Though his involvement in the group was significant, he eventually stepped away in 2019 to focus on solo work.

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This move marked the true beginning of Djo’s music career. He sought to create a project free from the constraints of expectations tied to his acting fame. By adopting the Djo moniker, he signaled a clear departure from his past and embarked on an artistic endeavor with its own identity.

Transition to Solo Career: Crafting a Distinct Identity

The decision to perform under the name Djo was more than just a stylistic choice—it was a branding move. Keery needed a way to build credibility in the music industry without the shadow of Stranger Things dominating the conversation.

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His debut album, Twenty Twenty (2019), introduced a fusion of psychedelic, synth-heavy, and experimental rock that instantly differentiated Djo from the standard “actor-turned-musician” trope. Critics praised the album for its ambition and authenticity, setting the stage for his next phase as a full-fledged musician.

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With 2022’s DECIDE, he refined his sound further, blending nostalgic synth-pop with modern production. The album’s standout track, “End of Beginning”, went viral on TikTok, proving that his music resonated beyond just existing fans—he was building a serious following as Djo across social platforms, streaming playlists, and live audiences all over the country.

Strategic Career Moves That Led to Coachella 2025

With his momentum building, Djo announced his new album, The Crux, set for release in April 2025. The lead single, “Basic Being Basic”, dropped in February, signaling another sonic shift while maintaining his signature experimental edge.

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To support the release, he also launched the Back On You World Tour, which includes festival stops at Coachella, Primavera Sound, and Lollapalooza. The tour marks his largest headlining run yet, cementing his transition from indie artist to major festival act. Take a look at our breakdown:

1. Musical Evolution and Authenticity

Djo’s ability to blend influences without feeling derivative is a key factor in his success. His music incorporates elements from Daft Punk, Tame Impala, and 80s synth-wave, yet remains uniquely his own. This commitment to an evolving, authentic sound has solidified his credibility as an artist.

2. Leveraging Acting Fame Without Overshadowing Music

Keery did not deny his acting past, but he also never let it define his music. Unlike other actors-turned-musicians, he avoided overtly using Stranger Things as a promotional tool. Instead, he let word-of-mouth, strong songwriting, and aesthetic cohesion do the heavy lifting.

However, he subtly leveraged the show’s massive audience. For example, in interviews and on social media, he maintained a separate persona for Djo, ensuring that fans of his acting could naturally transition into fans of his music rather than being force-fed the connection.

3. Engagement with Digital Platforms

Djo’s breakout viral moment came with “End of Beginning” on TikTok, proving that embracing digital platforms can redefine an artist’s reach. The song’s introspective lyrics and dreamy production sparked a trend of nostalgic videos, introducing his music to millions of users outside his existing fanbase. Alongside "End of Beginning's" success was the single "Feel Alright," which also gained a cult following and helped him expand his fan base.

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Additionally, his cryptic social media presence, avant-garde music videos, and retro-inspired visuals created an intriguing brand identity, fueling curiosity and more comments online.

Lessons for Independent Artists

Djo’s rise offers invaluable insights for musicians looking to break through and build sustainable careers.

1. Authenticity in Artistry

Rather than chasing trends or forcing a commercial sound, Djo has embraced his influences while crafting something unique. Independent artists should focus on developing an authentic voice that resonates deeply with their audience.

2. Strategic Use of Multiple Platforms

By balancing music, visuals, and storytelling across social media, streaming platforms, and live shows, Djo created an immersive world for fans. TikTok, in particular, played a key role in amplifying his reach organically.

3. Adaptability and Openness to Change

His ability to evolve sonically while staying true to his core aesthetic has been crucial. Artists must be willing to experiment, adapt to audience feedback, and refine their sound over time.

4. Engagement with Emerging Technologies

Djo’s use of cryptic teasers, visually stunning videos and photos, and digital-first marketing showcases how modern artists can create buzz without traditional label-backed promotion. Independent musicians should take notes on how social media virality and brand-building go hand in hand. Use emerging tools to design high-quality posts, a website, or other engaging content.

Conclusion: Djo’s Blueprint for Long-Term Success

Djo’s journey from Post Animal guitarist to solo experimental artist and now a Coachella 2025 performer is a testament to the power of strategic reinvention. By prioritizing authenticity, leveraging his existing platform wisely, and mastering digital engagement, he has successfully established himself as more than just an actor making music—he is an artist in his own right.

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For independent musicians, his path offers a clear roadmap: build a distinctive identity, embrace digital tools, and stay committed to artistic growth. As Djo steps onto the Coachella stage in 2025, it marks not just a performance but a validation of his carefully crafted, music-first career.

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