Joe Keery, known for his role on the hit series "Stranger Things," returned to his hometown of Chicago on Friday to perform a sold-out show at the Chicago Theatre, showcasing his music project Djo. The concert served as a follow-up to his acclaimed set at last year’s Lollapalooza and highlighted Keery’s growing presence in the music scene alongside his acting career.
The venue was filled with enthusiastic fans sporting handmade shirts bearing slogans such as “I ♥ Djo” and “It’s no use, Djo!” The audience also experienced a lively opening by DJ b.i.g.s.h.r.i.m.p, an alias for Jake Hirshland, Keery’s bandmate from the psychedelic rock group Post Animal, who has accompanied Djo on tours intermittently since 2019.
Keery’s connection to Chicago was a prominent theme throughout the evening, especially during the performance of “End of Beginning,” a track that has attained local anthem status since it went viral. The song’s reference to the city resonated deeply with the crowd, eliciting a communal singalong and prompting comparisons to classic Chicago tributes like “Sweet Home Chicago.” The song’s appeal has extended beyond the music scene, with companies such as United Airlines incorporating it into marketing efforts.
During the show, Keery reflected on his formative years in Chicago, where he studied theater at DePaul University and began composing music. He introduced the track “Roddy” by noting it was written at his North Side apartment. He also acknowledged the city’s vibrant music community, crediting it with nurturing his early career in both the band Post Animal and his transition into solo projects. Several Post Animal members continue to perform in his current backing band.
In a heartfelt address to the audience, Keery expressed gratitude for the support he received from local musicians, venues, and fans, emphasizing the importance of that community in shaping his career. “This really wouldn’t have been possible without any of that,” he said, highlighting his hope to inspire the next generation of artists.
The setlist primarily drew from Djo’s 2025 album “The Crux,” featuring an eclectic mix of styles ranging from electro-pop to rock. Songs like the gothic-inspired “Awake,” the Beatles-influenced “Charlie’s Garden,” and the synth-driven ballad “Egg” illustrated Keery’s versatility as a musician. His performance included seamless transitions between guitar and keyboards, showcasing his musicianship alongside emotive vocals.
Musically, Djo’s sound pays homage to classic influences such as Electric Light Orchestra and Steely Dan, blending retro sensibilities with modern production. The concert’s visual elements, including strobe lighting and fog effects, lent a theatrical quality to the intimate venue, hinting at the potential for larger-scale performances as Keery’s music career continues to ascend.
Friday’s show was a singular event ahead of Djo’s upcoming tour with Australian band Tame Impala, scheduled for early July. With family and friends in attendance, Keery hinted at future projects while the performance was professionally recorded. Fans left with complimentary posters, marking the occasion as a memorable homecoming for the Chicago-born musician and actor.