It's a very, very exciting week for fans of Stranger Things with the first instalment of episodes from its fifth and final season dropping in just two days. And any fan will tell you that they're just as excited to see what's on the epic soundtrack as they are about the plot line (although, these are increasingly intertwined – who could forget how integral Kate Bush and The Clash became in seasons one and four?).
But luckily, we don't have to wait the extra 48 hours to know which 80s hits made the cut. The timing couldn’t be better for the release of The WSQK Collection, a limited-edition red vinyl that feels like it was pulled straight out of Hawkins itself. Which is because... it kind of has been? It’s a Target exclusive, and while it’s packed with some seriously iconic 80s tracks, the record is really doing more than just celebrating nostalgia – it’s giving fans a little preview of how important music is about to become in the story.
Music has always been a big deal in Stranger Things. It’s not just about setting a vibe; it’s been a literal lifeline. Now, with a radio station potentially becoming central to the story, the soundtrack is stepping into the spotlight more than ever.
What is WSQK “The Squawk” vinyl?
It's looking like Season 5 will be introducing us to WSQK “The Squawk”, a fictional Hawkins radio station that might just be the gang’s new headquarters. Some reports on X are saying Robin and Steve are taking over the DJ booth, broadcasting updates, spinning classics, and maybe even sneaking coded messages out to the Party, and that the station itself is based on a real art deco building from the Duffer Brothers’ home state, so it comes with that authentic 80s charm that feels instantly familiar. It’s basically the grown-up evolution of the Ham Radio setup from Season 1..
That makes the new vinyl release feel even more connected to the show. The WSQK Collection pulls together pop, punk, and new wave hits that fit perfectly into the Stranger Things universe. It’s hard not to wonder if we might be in for another Running Up That Hill moment this season too.
What's on the tracklist?
Side A:
- I Think We're Alone Now by Tiffany
- The Magnificent Seven by The Clash
- Bicycle Race by Queen
- Another Brick In The Wall, Pt.2 by Pink Floyd
- Wheel in the Sky by Journey
Side B:
- Upside Down by Diana Ross
- Surrender by Cheap Trick
- See Those Eyes by Altered Image
- Here Comes The Rain Again by The Eurythmics
- The Warrior by Scandal featuring Patty Smyth
Where can I buy it?
At this point it looks like the vinyl is available exclusively at Target (US).
