News
October 12, 2025
Djo on privacy, candid lyrics, and life after Stranger Things: ‘Trying to be cool is like chasing your own tail’
The actor is known to millions for his role as Steve Harrington in ‘Stranger Things.’ But it’s his musical alter ego Djo that’s currently in the ascendant. He talks to Annabel Nugent about dealing with fame, going viral on TikTok and how he feels about his Netflix juggernaut coming to an end
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**Djo on privacy, candid lyrics, and life after Stranger Things: ‘Trying to be cool is like chasing your own tail’**
For many, Joe Keery is synonymous with Steve Harrington, the lovable, hair-obsessed babysitter from Netflix’s global phenomenon, *Stranger Things*. But behind the on-screen charisma, Keery harbors a deep passion: music. As Djo, his musical project, he’s carving out a distinct space, exploring themes of vulnerability, modern anxieties, and the complexities of navigating a world obsessed with image. In a recent interview with Annabel Nugent, Djo delves into the challenges of balancing his acting career with his burgeoning music career and the impact of sudden fame.
The transition from actor to musician hasn’t been without its hurdles. Keery admits to grappling with the concept of privacy in an era where every aspect of a celebrity’s life seems to be public domain. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sense of self amidst the constant scrutiny, a sentiment that resonates throughout his music. Djo’s lyrics are notably candid, offering a glimpse into his personal struggles and observations about the world around him. This raw honesty, he believes, is crucial for connecting with listeners on a deeper level.
The conversation also touches upon Djo’s surprising success on TikTok. While the platform can be a powerful tool for artists, it also presents unique challenges. The ephemeral nature of viral trends and the pressure to constantly create engaging content can be overwhelming. Keery acknowledges the app's influence but remains committed to creating music that is authentic and meaningful, rather than chasing fleeting online popularity.
With *Stranger Things* drawing to a close, Keery reflects on the impact the show has had on his life and career. While grateful for the opportunities it has afforded him, he’s also excited to explore new avenues, both in acting and music. He sees the end of the Netflix juggernaut as a chance to redefine himself and to fully embrace his artistic ambitions. It’s a sentiment echoed in his closing remark: "Trying to be cool is like chasing your own tail." For Djo, authenticity trumps image, and vulnerability is the key to genuine connection. He's clearly focused on forging his own path, one song, and one role, at a time.
**Djo on privacy, candid lyrics, and life after Stranger Things: ‘Trying to be cool is like chasing your own tail’**
For many, Joe Keery is synonymous with Steve Harrington, the lovable, hair-obsessed babysitter from Netflix’s global phenomenon, *Stranger Things*. But behind the on-screen charisma, Keery harbors a deep passion: music. As Djo, his musical project, he’s carving out a distinct space, exploring themes of vulnerability, modern anxieties, and the complexities of navigating a world obsessed with image. In a recent interview with Annabel Nugent, Djo delves into the challenges of balancing his acting career with his burgeoning music career and the impact of sudden fame.
The transition from actor to musician hasn’t been without its hurdles. Keery admits to grappling with the concept of privacy in an era where every aspect of a celebrity’s life seems to be public domain. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sense of self amidst the constant scrutiny, a sentiment that resonates throughout his music. Djo’s lyrics are notably candid, offering a glimpse into his personal struggles and observations about the world around him. This raw honesty, he believes, is crucial for connecting with listeners on a deeper level.
The conversation also touches upon Djo’s surprising success on TikTok. While the platform can be a powerful tool for artists, it also presents unique challenges. The ephemeral nature of viral trends and the pressure to constantly create engaging content can be overwhelming. Keery acknowledges the app's influence but remains committed to creating music that is authentic and meaningful, rather than chasing fleeting online popularity.
With *Stranger Things* drawing to a close, Keery reflects on the impact the show has had on his life and career. While grateful for the opportunities it has afforded him, he’s also excited to explore new avenues, both in acting and music. He sees the end of the Netflix juggernaut as a chance to redefine himself and to fully embrace his artistic ambitions. It’s a sentiment echoed in his closing remark: "Trying to be cool is like chasing your own tail." For Djo, authenticity trumps image, and vulnerability is the key to genuine connection. He's clearly focused on forging his own path, one song, and one role, at a time.
Category:
Entertainment