Cowboy Junkies’ Sweet Jane Surges Post-Stranger Things

Looks like a classic track just struck gold thanks to some TV magic.

A song written by a legendary alumnus of Syracuse University is experiencing a remarkable surge in streaming popularity, propelled by its inclusion in the final episode of the hit Netflix series “Stranger Things.” Cowboy Junkies’ rendition of “Sweet Jane,” originally penned by Lou Reed, captured attention when it was featured in a poignant scene during the show’s finale, airing on New Year’s Eve.

The Cowboy Junkies’ cover, released in 1988 on their album “The Trinity Session,” plays as characters Steve, Nancy, Jonathan, and Robin share a reflective moment on the rooftop of the fictional WSQK radio station. Following the airing, Luminate data revealed that the song’s streams increased by an impressive 92% within the first four days, soaring from an average of 41,770 daily streams to 80,047.

In a heartfelt message shared on Facebook, Cowboy Junkies expressed their excitement about being part of the show’s conclusion, highlighting the significance of their song’s feature. Although not as prominently showcased as other iconic tracks from the series, “Sweet Jane” still resonates deeply, particularly as the character Eleven—whose real name is Jane—navigates her journey throughout the show.

The Duffer Brothers, creators of “Stranger Things,” have remained dedicated to a soundtrack rich with period-appropriate music across all five seasons. While “Sweet Jane” itself is a product of the 1960s, its inclusion in the narrative unfolds after the class of 1989 graduates from Hawkins High School.

Originally composed during Lou Reed’s time as a student at Syracuse University in the 1960s, “Sweet Jane” first appeared on The Velvet Underground’s 1970 album “Loaded.” It’s worth noting that Reed’s original version and Cowboy Junkies’ cover differ significantly, with the latter drawing inspiration from a longer, slower rendition performed by The Velvet Underground in 1969. Reed’s adaptations over the years have also included blues-rock interpretations and various live versions.

The Cowboy Junkies’ interpretation of “Sweet Jane” notably reached the top 10 on the U.S. Modern Rock chart during the late ’80s and saw resurgence in popularity when featured on the soundtrack of Oliver Stone’s film “Natural Born Killers” in 1994. Fans are now eager to see if the recent visibility from “Stranger Things” will propel the track back onto the Billboard charts, much like Kate Bush’s resurgence with “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)” in 2022.

While Lou Reed’s original version of “Sweet Jane” hasn’t enjoyed the same streaming boost, it’s undeniable that both Reed and The Velvet Underground have left a lasting impact on countless musicians over the decades. Reed himself, who graduated from Syracuse in 1964, has been recognized as a transformative figure in music, influencing a wide range of artists and genres.

In addition to his musical contributions, Reed had an expansive career that included collaborations with major artists like David Bowie and Metallica, appearances in films, and a legacy of creative writing support for students at Syracuse University. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, honoring both his solo work and his contributions as a member of The Velvet Underground.