7 SONGS

ABOUT MONSTERS

How many songs about monsters do you think exist? It’s a popular topic with as many versions, twists, and scenarios as you can imagine. This genre explores many themes, from the darkness inside our minds to monsters just doing a funny dance. And we’re bringing you some of the greatest. Let’s slide onto the dance floor!

What Makes Songs About Monsters So Popular?

What Makes Songs About Monsters So Popular?

Songs about monsters are favorites for the same reason as tunes about love. They explore themes that affect us as humans. In addition, a vast range of ideas and emotions associated with scary creatures make for excellent creative fodder.

#1 The Purple People Eater by Sheb Wooley

#1 The Purple People Eater by Sheb Wooley

About the Song: This hit was #1 on Billboard for five weeks, but it almost wasn’t released. MGM records rejected it at first. However, a demo reached their office, and the staff loved listening to it during lunch breaks. MGM noticed and decided to give the piece a shot.

#2 Monster Mash by Bobby Pickett

#2 Monster Mash by Bobby Pickett

About the Song: Pickett was an actor and singer who performed in a band called The Cordials. One night during a performance, he did an impromptu impersonation of horror actor Boris Karloff. The audience loved it, so he was inspired to create lyrics including classic horror movie icons such as the Wolfman, Count Dracula, and Igor.

#3 Werewolves of London by Warren Zevon

#3 Werewolves of London by Warren Zevon

About the Song: Zevon wrote this hit in response to a joke by Phil Everly. During the 70s, he was their bandleader and keyboard player. Everly suggested that Zevon write the words after he watched the 1935 movie, Werewolf of London. Zevon and fellow musicians Waddy Wachtel and LeRoy Marinell all threw down and created the piece in about 15 minutes.

#4 Thriller by Michael Jackson

#4 Thriller by Michael Jackson

About the Song: Thriller was written for Michael Jackson by the British songwriter Rod Temperton. It’s a mix of post-disco and funk with a horror movie ambiance. The lyrics are from the viewpoint of a man watching a horror movie with his girlfriend. She’s terrified, and he’s laying it on thick, hoping he can “save you from the terrors on the screen.”

#5 Eye of the Zombie by John Fogerty

#5 Eye of the Zombie by John Fogerty

About the Song: Eye of the Zombie was released the year after Fogerty’s smash hit Centerfield. It wasn’t received well critically, and Fogerty himself didn’t like the work. However, the piece is solid with his signature raspy thrusting voice and driving intensity.

#6 Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) by David Bowie

#6 Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) by David Bowie

About the Song: This song is about the demons inside us. Bowie tells the story of a woman driven insane by the man she loves. By the tune’s end, he promises to love her until she dies. He created her madness, and he means to kill her with it.

#7 Godzilla by Blue Oyster Cult

#7 Godzilla by Blue Oyster Cult

About the Song: Godzilla is a tongue-in-cheek homage to the popular monster movie. The lyrics describe how Godzilla rampages through cities and destroys buildings and people alike. He’s got to go!

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