Spooky Scary Skeletons: A Tune that Resonates Beyond the Grave
“Spooky Scary Skeletons” is a song that has transcended its original purpose and grown into an anthem of the Halloween season, pervasive in pop culture and beyond. Penned and performed by Andrew Gold, an American singer, songwriter, and musician, this catchy tune was initially released in 1996 as part of an album titled “Halloween Howls.”
Spooky Scary Skeletons and its Disney Connection
One might wonder (assuming you’re also a Disney lover) how a song about animated skeletons ties to the magical world of Disney.
Considering Disney’s brand tends to be primarily focused on princesses & magic… you might be surprised to find that Disney has a dark side as well. And if you’ve been around a while, you know we love a Disney villain moment!
The connection lies in the fact that Andrew Gold was not just a prolific artist but also a valued contributor to several Disney soundtracks.
Disney Halloween Special and the Skeleton Dance
In 1998, Disney released a Halloween special for its Sing-Along Songs series titled “Happy Haunting: Party at Disneyland!” This video featured various musical numbers, including a performance of “Spooky Scary Skeletons” by the dancing skeletons from the 1929 Silly Symphony short, The Skeleton Dance.
Spooky Scary Skeletons Song Lyrics
Spooky, scary skeletons
Send shivers down your spine
Shrieking skulls will shock your soul
Seal your doom tonight
Spooky, scary skeletons
Speak with such a screech
You’ll shake and shudder in surprise
When you hear these zombies shriek
We’re sorry skeletons, you’re so misunderstood
You only want to socialize, but I don’t think we should
‘Cause spooky, scary skeletons
Shout startling, shrilly screams
They’ll sneak from their sarcophagus
And just won’t leave you be
Spirits supernatural are shy what’s all the fuss?
But bags of bones seem so unsafe, it’s semi-serious
Spooky, scary skeletons
Are silly all the same
They’ll smile and scrabble slowly by
And drive you so insane
Sticks and stones will break your bones
They seldom let you snooze
Spooky, scary skeletons
Will wake you with a boo!
Viral Popularity of Spooky Scary Skeletons
“Spooky Scary Skeletons” catapulted into viral fame in the mid-2010s, long past its original release. The song’s catchy tune and eerie theme found a place on the internet, particularly on the video-sharing platform, YouTube, and the social media app, TikTok.
The song’s resurgence is often linked to a 2013 remix by electronic music artist The Living Tombstone. This version of the song, laden with upbeat tempos and electronic influences, captured the attention of internet users, paving the way for countless memes, dance challenges, and remixes.
As a result, the Spooky Scary Skeletons remix turned into an internet phenomenon, garnering millions of views and becoming an inescapable part of digital Halloween celebrations.
The song’s playful lyrics and spooky undertones make it a perfect fit for everything from kid-friendly Halloween parties to adult festivities. It’s a testament to the timeless appeal of Disney’s music, even beyond its original context.
A Halloween Hit
Andrew Gold’s contribution to Halloween history has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on both the company and its fans. From the spooky tune, and fun Halloween traditions, to viral internet fame, “Spooky Scary Skeletons” has proven to be a beloved and enduring piece of Disney’s Halloween legacy.
As we continue to enjoy the festive holiday season with its classic songs and spooky traditions, let us not forget the origins of this eerie ditty and how it truly embodies the spirit of the holiday. Happy haunting!