Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Kyle Dixon from Below Deck?

Kyle Dixon from Below Deck is not the same Kyle Dixon known for his work in music and soundtrack composition. The Kyle Dixon associated with Below Deck is a British deckhand who appeared in Season 4 of the reality TV series "Below Deck Mediterranean." He became popular for his fun-loving personality and unique sense of humor. After his time on the show, Kyle Dixon returned to his career in yachting and has occasionally updated fans on his life through social media. He is not directly related to the music world or the creation of the Stranger Things theme. Therefore, if you're searching for updates on the musical Kyle Dixon, focus on his music and production career rather than his reality TV namesake.

Who is Michael Stein?

Michael Stein is a renowned musician, composer, and producer, best known as one half of the electronic music duo Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein. The pair rose to international fame for composing the Emmy-winning soundtrack to the hit Netflix series "Stranger Things." Stein is also a founding member of the Austin-based synth band S U R V I V E, which specializes in analog synthesizer-driven soundscapes. His work is characterized by moody atmospheres, vintage synth textures, and a nostalgic yet modern take on electronic music. Stein's signature style has heavily influenced the resurgence of synthwave and ambient electronic music, making him a sought-after composer for film, television, and video games. His musical expertise lies in blending retro and contemporary sounds, notably using analog synthesizers to create immersive audio experiences.

Who came up with the Stranger Things theme song?

The iconic Stranger Things theme song was created by Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein, members of the synth band S U R V I V E. The duo was specifically chosen by the Duffer Brothers, creators of the Netflix series, for their expertise in retro electronic music and their ability to evoke 1980s nostalgia. Their synth-driven sound became a defining element of the show's atmosphere, with the theme song quickly gaining popularity for its haunting, minimalist melody and atmospheric depth. The Stranger Things theme has since become synonymous with the series, earning critical acclaim and helping propel Dixon & Stein to international recognition. Their innovative use of analog synthesizers and vintage production techniques played a crucial role in crafting the show's unique sonic identity, making the theme one of the most memorable TV intros of the decade.

What synth is best for Stranger Things?

The best synth for achieving the signature Stranger Things sound is widely considered to be the Roland Juno-106. This vintage analog synthesizer was frequently used by Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein when composing the Stranger Things soundtrack, especially for the iconic theme song. The Juno-106 is celebrated for its warm, lush pads, punchy basses, and distinctive chorus effect, all of which contribute to the atmospheric and nostalgic vibe of the series. Other key synthesizers used by the duo include the Prophet-5, ARP Odyssey, and the Sequential Circuits Pro-One, each adding unique textures to the score. For modern musicians seeking to replicate the Stranger Things sound, software emulations of these classic synths are available, but the Roland Juno-106 remains a top choice for authenticity and versatility in synthwave and retro-inspired music production.

Who are the members of the S U R V I V E band?

The members of the S U R V I V E band are Kyle Dixon, Michael Stein, Mark Donica, and Adam Jones. Formed in Austin, Texas, S U R V I V E is known for their pioneering work in synth-heavy, analog-driven electronic music. The band focuses on creating immersive soundscapes using a range of vintage synthesizers and drum machines, drawing influences from 1980s film scores, darkwave, and ambient music. Each member brings unique skills and sonic sensibilities, contributing to the group's rich, layered compositions. S U R V I V E gained significant attention after Dixon and Stein composed the soundtrack for Netflix's Stranger Things, but the band's discography also includes acclaimed albums and live performances. Their commitment to analog gear and experimental approaches has made them influential figures in the modern synthwave and electronic music scenes.