Kate Bush Back on Top

Kate Bush Is Back – The Vinyl Icon Reborn Through Stranger Things (And She's Not Done Yet)

On May 27, 2022, the long-awaited fourth season of Netflix's Stranger Things dropped—and it didn't just save the platform from irrelevance. It resurrected one of the most iconic voices in music history. Now, with Stranger Things Season 5 officially in production and set to premiere in 2025, Kate Bush's legacy is experiencing yet another surge—and vinyl collectors worldwide are scrambling to add her records to their collections.

This time we've chosen none other than the extraordinary Kate Bush as the centerpiece of this edition of Choose the Artist. Why? Because the legendary singer has been reborn twice—first in 2022 when Running Up That Hill became a global phenomenon, and now again as fans anticipate the final season's emotional soundtrack. Her influence on music, culture, and why vinyl records remain so popular today has never been more relevant.

Didn't Watch Stranger Things? Here's Why You Still Know the Song

Even if you haven't been keeping up with Stranger Things, there's almost no way you haven't heard that song. It exploded across the globe in 2022, becoming the anthem of the summer—and it's showing no signs of slowing down. With Season 5 on the horizon and the Duffer Brothers promising an even more emotionally charged finale, Kate Bush's music is poised to dominate once again.

At Keep Them Spinning, now that the immediate hype has evolved into lasting cultural impact, we're taking a moment to shine the spotlight on the brilliant woman behind it all—and why her records deserve a permanent place in your collection.

Who Is Kate Bush?

Kate Bush is a British singer-songwriter, composer, and visionary performer who redefined what it meant to be a female artist in the music industry. She shot to fame in the late '70s—thanks in part to a little push from family friend David Gilmour of Pink Floyd—who believed in her talent so fiercely that he helped her sign to EMI Records at just 16 years old.

With a soprano voice that could shatter glass and heal hearts in the same breath, combined with a unique artistic flair for dance, storytelling, and piano-driven melodies, Bush became one of the most influential women in British music history. Her theatrical performances and deeply personal lyrics created a devoted following that has only grown stronger with time.

Her First #1: Wuthering Heights

At just 19, Kate became the first female artist to top the UK charts with a self-written song: Wuthering Heights (1978), inspired by the gothic novel by Emily Brontë. Her ethereal voice, mystical lyrics, and theatrical style captivated the UK—and created a cult following of collectors and fans who still treasure her records today.

Many of those early pressings are now considered among the most valuable vinyl records for collectors worldwide. Original UK pressings of The Kick Inside (her debut album) regularly sell for premium prices, and authenticated first pressings can fetch hundreds of dollars.

Running Up That Hill: Then vs. Now (And What's Coming)

In 1985, Kate released Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God) from her fifth studio album Hounds of Love. Though it reached #3 in the UK at the time, it never quite became the global phenomenon it was destined to be—until 37 years later when Stranger Things Season 4 featured it during one of the most emotionally devastating scenes in television history.

When Max Mayfield fought for her life in the Upside Down with Kate's voice as her lifeline, the song shot up charts worldwide. Kate broke three world records:

• Longest time for a song to reach #1 in the UK (37 years after release)
• Oldest female artist to reach #1 (at 63 years old)
• Most streamed catalog song in a single week (over 57 million streams)

Cher even congratulated her for stealing the "oldest female artist" record—gracefully, of course. And now, with Season 5 promising to be the most emotional finale yet, fans are already speculating whether Kate's music will play another pivotal role in the Upside Down's final chapter.

If you walk into any record store today, you'll see Hounds of Love proudly displayed in premium vinyl storage solutions. The demand hasn't just returned—it's sustained, driven by both nostalgic fans and a new generation discovering her genius for the first time.

Kate Bush Today: Still Magical, Still Relevant, Still Breaking Records

At 66 (as of 2025), Kate Bush is once again the voice of multiple generations simultaneously. Thanks to the emotional pull of Running Up That Hill and the anticipation surrounding Stranger Things Season 5, her legacy has found not just a second wind—but a permanent place in contemporary culture.

It's now common to see Gen Z vinyl enthusiasts and longtime collectors alike searching for the perfect copy of Hounds of Love to display in their modular vinyl storage systems. Record stores report that Kate Bush albums—particularly Hounds of Love, The Kick Inside, and Never for Ever—are among their fastest-moving inventory.

And it's not just nostalgia. Her lyrics, vision, and artistry have stood the test of time in ways few artists achieve. Songs written in the 1980s about empathy, transformation, and emotional survival resonate just as powerfully—if not more so—in 2025.

The Stranger Things Effect: How TV Revived Vinyl Culture

The Stranger Things phenomenon did more than boost Kate Bush's streaming numbers—it sparked a massive resurgence in vinyl sales across multiple artists featured in the show. From Metallica's Master of Puppets to The Clash and Journey, the series has become a cultural tastemaker that drives physical music sales in ways streaming alone never could.

But Kate Bush's story is unique. Unlike other artists who saw temporary spikes, her resurgence has been sustained and growing. Why? Because her music isn't just background—it's narrative, emotional, and transformative. It's the kind of music that demands to be experienced on vinyl, where every note, every breath, every theatrical flourish can be felt in full analog warmth.

For collectors interested in understanding how to authenticate original vinyl pressings, Kate Bush records are an excellent case study. Original UK EMI pressings have distinct label variations, matrix codes, and cover art details that differ significantly from reissues.

Why Kate Bush Belongs in Your Vinyl Collection

Bush's records are not only filled with soul and storytelling—they're also visually stunning works of art. From The Kick Inside to Never for Ever, her album artwork is bold, theatrical, and timeless, making her LPs a prized addition to any serious collection.

Essential Kate Bush Albums for Collectors:

• The Kick Inside (1978): Her debut, featuring Wuthering Heights—original UK pressings are highly sought after
• Hounds of Love (1985): Her masterpiece, now experiencing unprecedented demand
• The Dreaming (1982): Her most experimental work, beloved by serious fans
• Never for Ever (1980): First album by a British female artist to enter the UK charts at #1
• Aerial (2005): Her comeback after 12 years, a double album showcasing mature artistry

If you're just getting into her discography, here's a collector tip: organize your records with proper vinyl storage solutions to keep them safe, visible, and ready to play. Kate Bush albums, with their gatefold sleeves and delicate cover art, deserve protection that maintains their condition and value.

Stranger Things Season 5: What to Expect

The Duffer Brothers have confirmed that Season 5 will be the final chapter of Stranger Things, and they've promised it will be their most emotionally intense season yet. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the creators have hinted that music will once again play a crucial narrative role—just as it did when Running Up That Hill saved Max's life in Season 4.

Will Kate Bush's music return? Fans are speculating wildly, and vinyl collectors are preparing either way. Whether or not her songs appear in Season 5, her association with the series has permanently elevated her status among younger audiences who are now discovering her entire catalog—and buying it on vinyl.

Producer Shawn Levy explained the show's relationship with music:

"Music isn't just a soundtrack for us—it's a character. It's emotional architecture. What Kate Bush's song did for Max's story in Season 4 was something we'd been building toward for years. It was the perfect storm—delayed by COVID, reshaped by creative ambition, and ultimately delivered with more heart than ever."

The Vinyl Renaissance: Why Physical Music Matters More Than Ever

Kate Bush's resurgence is happening at a unique moment in music history. Vinyl sales have been growing consistently for over 15 years, and 2024 marked the highest vinyl sales since the 1990s. But this isn't just nostalgia—it's a conscious rejection of disposable digital culture in favor of tangible, intentional music experiences.

When you stream Running Up That Hill, you hear a song. When you play it on vinyl, you experience a ritual: pulling the record from its sleeve, placing it on the turntable, dropping the needle, and sitting with the music as it unfolds. There's no skipping, no shuffling—just Kate Bush's vision, exactly as she intended it.

This is why her albums are flying off shelves and why collectors are investing in proper storage. If you're building a collection that includes Kate Bush, make sure you're protecting it with quality vinyl storage boxes designed to prevent warping and damage.

Kate Bush's Influence on Modern Artists

Kate Bush's impact extends far beyond her own discography. Artists from Björk to Florence + The Machine, from St. Vincent to Billie Eilish, have cited her as a major influence. Her willingness to be weird, theatrical, and uncompromisingly artistic paved the way for generations of female artists to do the same.

Big Boi from OutKast sampled her song This Woman's Work for his track She Hates Me. Placebo covered Running Up That Hill in 2003 (which also charted). Even Meg Myers' 2019 cover introduced the song to yet another generation before Stranger Things made it a global phenomenon.

Understanding Kate Bush's influence helps collectors appreciate why her records hold value—not just monetarily, but culturally. She's not just an artist; she's a foundational figure in modern music history.

Collecting Kate Bush: Investment and Appreciation

Original pressings of Kate Bush albums have appreciated significantly in value, especially since 2022. Here's what collectors should know:

Most Valuable Kate Bush Pressings:

• The Kick Inside (1978 UK first pressing): Original EMI pressings with specific matrix codes can fetch \$100-300 depending on condition
• Hounds of Love (1985 UK first pressing): Now commanding premium prices due to renewed demand
• The Dreaming (1982 original): Less common than her other albums, making it more collectible
• Promotional copies: White label promos and radio station copies are particularly rare
• Signed copies: Extremely rare, as Kate Bush rarely signed albums—authenticated copies can be worth thousands

For guidance on authenticating Kate Bush pressings and avoiding counterfeits, check our comprehensive guide on how to verify if vinyl records are original.

Where to Find Kate Bush Vinyl

With demand at an all-time high, finding Kate Bush records requires patience and knowledge:

• Independent record stores: Your best bet for authenticated originals—check out our guide to America's best independent record stores
• Discogs: Verify seller ratings and compare pressing details carefully
• Record fairs: Inspect before buying, especially for original pressings
• Official reissues: If you can't find originals, modern reissues are high quality and more affordable

Avoid overpaying for common reissues being misrepresented as rare originals. Do your research, check matrix codes, and when in doubt, ask for detailed photos.

Proper Care for Kate Bush Records

Kate Bush albums, particularly gatefold editions like Hounds of Love, require proper care to maintain their value and playability:

• Store vertically: Never stackflat—learn more about what happens when you store vinyl flat
• Use quality sleeves: Anti-static inner sleeves protect the vinyl from dust and scratches
• Climate control: Keep records at 65-70°F with 45-50% humidity
• Clean properly: Follow our guide on how to clean and care for vinyl records at home
• Handle with care: Always hold by the edges, never touch the playing surface

Gatefold sleeves like those on Hounds of Love are particularly vulnerable to damage. Store them in modular storage systems designed to support the weight and protect the delicate artwork.

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Final Note: Don't Just Stream It—Spin It

As Kate Bush once said, "There's something about vinyl you can't quite put into words." We agree completely. Music vinyl records offer an experience you can hold, admire, and truly feel—something that streaming services, no matter how convenient, can never replicate.

So if you've rediscovered Running Up That Hill this year, or if you're anticipating what Kate Bush's role will be in Stranger Things Season 5, don't just add her music to a playlist. Add it to your shelf. Whether it's a new reissue or a vintage original, let Kate Bush live in your collection—right where she belongs.

Why Kate Bush Matters in 2025

Kate Bush's story isn't just about a song that went viral. It's about the enduring power of authentic artistry, the cultural impact of thoughtful media curation, and the way vinyl culture connects us to music on a deeper level than streaming ever could.

In an era of algorithmic playlists and disposable content, Kate Bush represents something radical: an artist who refused to compromise, who created music that demanded to be felt, and whose legacy only grows stronger with time.

Her resurgence through Stranger Things isn't a fluke—it's validation that great art transcends decades, that emotional authenticity resonates across generations, and that sometimes the most powerful moments in culture come when the right song meets the right story at exactly the right time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kate Bush and Vinyl Collecting

What is Kate Bush's most valuable vinyl record?
Original UK first pressings of The Kick Inside (1978) and Never for Ever (1980) are among her most sought-after records. Authenticated first pressings in good condition can fetch \$100-300+. Signed copies or promotional pressings are significantly more valuable. Check our guide to the most valuable vinyl records for current market values.

Is Hounds of Love worth buying on vinyl?
Absolutely. Hounds of Love is one of the greatest albums ever recorded, and vinyl is the ideal format to experience it. The gatefold artwork is stunning, and the analog warmth of vinyl brings out details in the production that streaming can't capture. Whether you buy an original pressing or a modern reissue, it's a worthwhile addition to any collection.

How can I tell if my Kate Bush record is an original pressing?
Check the label for catalog numbers, examine matrix codes in the runout groove, inspect cover art print quality, and verify details against Discogs. Original UK EMI pressings have specific label designs and manufacturing details that differ from reissues. For detailed guidance, read our comprehensive article on how to tell if a vinyl record is original.

Will Kate Bush appear in Stranger Things Season 5?
While official details remain under wraps, the Duffer Brothers have confirmed that music will play a crucial narrative role in the final season. Given Kate Bush's pivotal role in Season 4 and her sustained cultural relevance, many fans speculate her music will return. Either way, her association with the series has permanently elevated her status among new audiences.

Where can I find Kate Bush vinyl records?
Independent record stores are your best bet for authenticated originals. Check our guide to America's best record stores to find reputable dealers. Discogs is excellent for online shopping with verified sellers. Record fairs offer opportunities to inspect records before purchasing.

Should I buy original pressings or modern reissues?
Both have value. Original pressings are more collectible and often have superior sound quality from the original master tapes, but they're more expensive and require careful authentication. Modern reissues are more affordable, readily available, and still sound excellent. Many collectors own both—originals for collecting and reissues for regular play.

How should I store Kate Bush gatefold records?
Store vertically using proper vinyl storage furniture designed to support gatefold sleeves. Use anti-static inner sleeves, maintain climate control (65-70°F, 45-50% humidity), and handle carefully to prevent damage to the delicate artwork.

The Kate Bush Renaissance: A Moment in Time

We're living through a unique cultural moment where a 40-year-old song has become a global phenomenon, where vinyl sales are at their highest in decades, and where a legendary artist is experiencing a second (or third) act that rivals her original peak.

Kate Bush's story reminds us why we collect vinyl in the first place: not just for the music, but for the connection to artistry, history, and the human stories behind every record.

Whether you're a longtime Kate Bush devotee or a new fan discovering her through Stranger Things, now is the perfect time to add her records to your collection. The demand is high, the cultural moment is undeniable, and the music is timeless.

Ready to Build Your Kate Bush Collection?

Now that you understand why Kate Bush belongs in every serious vinyl collection, it's time to give your records the storage they deserve. Explore our complete range of vinyl storage solutions—from modular systems that grow with your collection to premium display options that showcase your most prized records.

Whether you're looking for elegant storage boxes for your Kate Bush originals or need stylish storage solutions that complement your home décor, we've got you covered.

Pair your storage with the perfect turntable setup by exploring our guide to the best turntables and storage furniture for collectors in 2025.

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