Joe Keery, best known for his role in Stranger Things, has been building serious momentum as a musician under his project name Djo. His third studio album“The Crux”dropped in April 2025 and has been gaining real traction. Last Thursday night, he sold out Forest Hills Stadium in Queens, New York, which is no small feat. The sold-out show drew fans from all over who came to experience his music live.
During the performance of“Charlie’s Garden,”a song that normally features a voicemail contribution from Stranger Things co-star Charlie Heaton, something unexpected happened. NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani appeared on the big screen in a pre-recorded video message to congratulate Keery on the sold-out achievement. The crowd’s reaction was immediate and loud, though their enthusiasm made it difficult for most attendees to hear what the mayor actually said. What was clear, though, was the celebratory moment and the genuine support being shown.
This cameo fits a larger pattern for Mayor Mamdani, who has become increasingly visible at major music events around New York City. He’s performed at his own mayoral inauguration and shown up at concerts by artists like Lucy Dacus and MJ Lenderman. For a city’s leadership to actively engage with its music scene isn’t always guaranteed, but when it happens, it sends a message that these cultural moments matter. Is there a local artist or venue in your community you’d like to see more support for?
About the Author
Ava Hart
Ava Hart is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
