Halloween Song: “This Is Halloween”

This post is a slightly rewritten rerun from the BHT haunted vault.

Danny Elfman has been a spooky performer since the 1980s when he fronted Oingo Boingo on hit songs like “Dead Man’s Party” (see my October 10 post) and “Stay.” His quirky energy and maniacal grin, along with that unique voice, made lines like “Leave your body and soul at the door” simultaneously threatening and fun. He moved on to writing scores for Tim Burton movies such as Beetlejuice, Batman, Corpse Bride and Sleepy Hollow. His best work might have been for Burton’s dual holiday feature The Nightmare Before Christmas, which gave us the angst-ridden hero Jack Skellington.

“This Is Halloween”, one of the many highlights from the soundtrack, ushers us into the holiday town via an ominous beat, full orchestra, and operatic choruses. Comic voices abound as many of the creepy residents introduce themselves: “I am the one hiding under your bed./Teeth ground sharp and eyes glowing red.” Elfman’s clever rhyming couplets and macabre humor make “This Is Halloween” an enduring classic.

By now, homeowners across America have put the final touches on their Halloween decorations, aiming to surprise trick-or-treaters when they arrive tomorrow seeking candy. Hopefully, the kids won’t encounter anything as gruesome as the everyday activities in Jack Skellington’s haunted kingdom. Have a safe and happy holiday.