Looks like another classic track is riding the coattails of a hit series. This time, it’s a cover that’s skyrocketing thanks to some nostalgic vibes.
In a significant boost to its popularity, Cowboy Junkies’ rendition of “Sweet Jane” has experienced a remarkable 92% increase in streaming numbers following its appearance in the final episode of Netflix’s “Stranger Things.” The song, originally penned by Lou Reed and performed by his band The Velvet Underground, was featured briefly during a poignant scene involving key characters Steve, Nancy, Jonathan, and Robin, as they share a moment on the rooftop of the fictional WSQK radio station.
The Cowboy Junkies’ version, which comes from their 1988 album “The Trinity Session,” averaged 41,770 daily streams in the U.S. from December 26 to 29, 2025. After the episode aired on New Year’s Eve, those numbers jumped to an impressive 80,047 daily streams between January 1 and 4, 2026, according to data from Luminate shared with local media.
“We’re pleased and excited to be part of the final Stranger Things season!” the band announced on social media, highlighting their enthusiasm about being included in such a popular series. While “Sweet Jane” may not have received as much screen time as other iconic tracks from the series, it still holds a special connection to the show, particularly with its lead character Eleven, who is originally named Jane.
Throughout its five seasons, “Stranger Things” has been known for its careful selection of period-appropriate music, and the Cowboy Junkies’ cover fits right in. It plays during a graduation scene, evoking a sense of nostalgia that resonates with viewers. Reed originally composed “Sweet Jane” in the 1960s, and it first appeared on The Velvet Underground’s album “Loaded” in 1970, but Cowboy Junkies’ version brought a contemporary touch that has clearly struck a chord with fans.
This isn’t the first time the song has enjoyed commercial success. In 1989, Cowboy Junkies’ rendition hit the top 10 on the U.S. Modern Rock chart, and it experienced a resurgence in 1994 when featured in Oliver Stone’s film “Natural Born Killers.” The question now is whether this latest boost will translate into chart success similar to Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” after its own viral moment in 2022.
Interestingly, despite the recent surge in streaming, Lou Reed’s original version of “Sweet Jane” hasn’t seen the same rise. Reed’s only Billboard Hot 100 hit was “Walk on the Wild Side,” which peaked at No. 16. His influence, however, is undeniable; both he and The Velvet Underground have left a lasting impact on music that continues to inspire artists across generations.
Reed, who graduated from Syracuse University in 1964, was a pioneer in the rock genre and collaborated with numerous notable artists throughout his career. His legacy includes induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice: first as a member of The Velvet Underground in 1996 and again as a solo artist in 2015. Reed passed away in 2013, but his music, including “Sweet Jane,” remains timeless and relevant, especially in moments like this.