Halloween Songs

by Beth Caudill

Christmas is right around the corner and some places already have the Christmas carols playing. Where are the creaks, groans, and spooky songs?  Let the demons and undead have their day before Angels start to sing.

Thriller was the first album I wanted as a pre-teen. This was big for me because all my previous records were things like Snoopy’s Christmas and the soundtrack to Mary Poppins. But what I loved best about the song Thriller was Vincent Price’s voice.  The way he says ‘face the hounds of hell’ or ‘rot inside a corpse's shell’ sends shivers down my spine.   Although, you can’t enjoy the song without the video; I have to say it is still one of the best videos because you get a complete story.

The Monster Mash is a popular song played this time of year. It’s never been a favorite of mine but there aren’t too many Halloween songs.  You could use soundtracks from movies like Beetlejuice or The Ghostbusters.  Or maybe the openings to The Munsters or Addams Family. Who can resist snapping along with Morticia and Gomez?

Mannheim  Steamroller has two cds they’ve ‘deranged’ as they call it. I have the first cd set which comes with a special effects disc good for scaring the tricker treaters.  I don’t play it for little kids, but the ten and older crowd get to hear the ghosts wail and owls screech. 

Quite a few of the Mannheim Steamroller Halloween songs appeared in Disney’s Fantasia. I have a difficult time seeing The Sorcerer’s Apprentice as scary. It’s hard to image Mickey with his cute blue hat scaring anyone.  But the Night on Bald Mountain composition is my favorite for cold October nights. Here is a YouTube video for your enjoyment:

Before you get lost in the bustle and joy of Christmas, remember to hide from the monsters of Halloween. And a loud spooky sound just might scare them away.

Find Beth at http://bethcaudill.net