Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill" Song Goes Viral in Stranger Things

The Original Kate Bush Song That Went Viral in 2022

In 1985, British singer-songwriter Kate Bush released her fifth studio album called Hounds of Love. It contained the song "Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)," which would go on to become one of her most well-known and beloved songs. However, it wouldn't reach the height of its popularity until decades later in 2022, when it went viral thanks to the Netflix series Stranger Things.

The Meaning and Origins of "Running Up That Hill"

"Running Up That Hill" was initially inspired by Bush's exploration of gender swapped personas. The song's lyrics express the desire to make a deal with God to switch places with your partner, to better understand them. The title was originally "A Deal With God" but was changed for fear of potential controversy.

Sonically, the song combines Bush's acclaimed soprano vocals with prominent synthesizers and drums. It was produced by Bush along with her long-time collaborators such as drummer Stuart Elliott. Upon its release in 1985, "Running Up That Hill" became Bush's biggest hit in the US at the time, reaching #30 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Placebo and Meg Myers Cover Versions

In the decades after its release, "Running Up That Hill" was covered by several artists. One of the most popular renditions came from British alternative rock band Placebo, who released their cover version in 2003. It was featured on their album Covers and brought renewed attention to Bush's song.

In 2012, American singer Meg Myers released her own haunting, stripped down cover of "Running Up That Hill" which also found viral success. Myers' version highlighted the raw emotions of the lyrics and introduced the song to a new generation of listeners.

Viral Success in Stranger Things

Kate Bush's original recording of "Running Up That Hill" found massive new audiences in summer 2022 when it was featured in the fourth season of Netflix's hit sci-fi series Stranger Things. The song played a pivotal role in the storyline for the character of Max Mayfield (played by Sadie Sink).

A Standout Scene in Stranger Things 4

In an emotional scene, Max listens to "Running Up That Hill" on her Walkman while trying to escape from the villain Vecna. The song acts as a form of protection for Max, allowing her to break free from Vecna's grasp.

This standout scene in Stranger Things 4 catapulted Bush's song back into the public consciousness. It highlighted the song's themes of struggle and perseverance, which deeply resonated with viewers of the show.

Topping the Charts Almost 40 Years Later

Shortly after the release of Stranger Things 4 in May 2022, "Running Up That Hill" began climbing the music charts. It eventually reached #1 on iTunes in the US and UK, as well as the Spotify Global chart. The song also re-entered the official UK singles chart at #8, becoming Bush's first UK Top 10 hit in nearly 40 years.

The resurgence demonstrated the continued popularity and influence of Bush's avant-garde pop music. Her introspective lyrics and enigmatic persona have endeared her to fans for decades. The viral success of "Running Up That Hill" introduced her ingenious artistry to younger generations.

The Enduring Legacy of Kate Bush's Masterpiece

While it took nearly four decades, the world finally caught up to the brilliance of "Running Up That Hill." Bush's prophetic songwriting and production has allowed it to remain relevant across generations. Its message of understanding, struggle and perseverance continue to deeply resonate with listeners.

The song's placement in Stranger Things 4 was a perfect marriage of subject and sound. Bush's ethereal vocals and synth atmospherics beautifully complemented the show's supernatural themes. Max's fight for survival mirrored the song's expressed desire to find understanding and make a "deal with God."

Viral hits come and go, but "Running Up That Hill" has proven to be an enduring masterpiece. Over 35 years since its release, Bush's song became #1 across global charts and exposed her artistry to wider audiences. Its viral resurgence proves that truly great music can transcend eras and find renewed meaning in the modern age.

FAQs

What is the original meaning behind "Running Up That Hill"?

The lyrics of "Running Up That Hill" express the desire to make a deal with God to switch places with your partner, to better understand them. Kate Bush was exploring gender swapped personas when she originally wrote the song.

Why did the song become so popular in 2022?

It went viral after being featured in a pivotal scene in the Netflix series Stranger Things 4. In the scene, the character Max Mayfield listens to it for protection from the villain Vecna.

What covers of the song existed before Stranger Things?

Notable covers include a 2003 version by British band Placebo and a 2012 version by American singer Meg Myers that also found viral success.

How high did Kate Bush's song climb the charts again?

After Stranger Things, "Running Up That Hill" hit #1 on iTunes, Spotify charts, and re-entered the UK singles chart at #8 - Bush's first UK Top 10 hit in nearly 40 years.

Why does the song remain so popular after all this time?

It remains popular because of Bush's timeless songwriting and production. The themes of struggle and desire for understanding deeply resonate across generations of listeners.