The Meaning Behind The Song: Halloween by Misfits
Misfits are known for their horror punk and their iconic skull logo. The band was formed in 1977 in Lodi, New Jersey, by singer Glenn Danzig. One of their most popular and enduring songs is “Halloween.” It has become a staple of the Halloween season, frequently appearing on Halloween-related playlists, and it has been covered by numerous bands. But what is the meaning behind the song? In this article, we’ll explore its lyrics, influences, and significance.
The Lyrics of “Halloween”
The lyrics of “Halloween” are concise and straightforward, but they create a mood and an atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday:
In the streets on Halloween
There’s something going on
No way to escape the power unknown
In the streets on Halloween
The spirits will arise
Make their way among the living
All Hallows Eve
It’s the Halloween
All Hallows Eve
It’s the Halloween
Leaves are falling all around
It’s time I was on my way
Thanks to you, I’m much obliged
For such a pleasant stay
But now it’s time for me to go
The autumn moon lights my way
For now I smell the rain
And with it, pain
And it’s headed my way
The lyrics describe Halloween night, with its mysterious and supernatural atmosphere. The spirits of the dead are said to rise and mingle with the living. The song also references the changing of the seasons and the transition from warm weather to cold and rainy days.
The Influences Behind “Halloween”
The Misfits were heavily influenced by horror movies, comic books, and science fiction. The band’s aesthetic was inspired by classic horror movies from the 1950s and 1960s, as well as by punk and metal music. “Halloween” was inspired by the holiday itself and by the tradition of ghost stories and supernatural tales.
In an interview with the website Noisecreep, Glenn Danzig explained the inspiration behind the song: “I think a lot of people really like this song because it brings to mind a lot of visuals in their heads. That’s why I wrote it. All the great horror movies have great visuals that you remember.”
The Misfits also drew inspiration from other horror-themed rock bands, such as Alice Cooper and Black Sabbath. Like these bands, the Misfits used their music to create an atmosphere of fear, mystery, and darkness.
The Significance of “Halloween”
“Halloween” has become one of the Misfits’ most enduring and beloved songs. It captures the essence of the holiday and creates a mood that is both eerie and exciting. The song’s popularity has also made it a Halloween classic and a staple of Halloween playlists.
The Misfits have also influenced generations of punk, alternative, and metal musicians. Bands like Metallica, Green Day, and My Chemical Romance have cited the Misfits as an inspiration, and many have covered “Halloween.”
The Misfits’ impact on music and popular culture has been so significant that the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.
FAQs
1. Who wrote “Halloween”?
Glenn Danzig, the lead singer of the Misfits, wrote “Halloween.” He also wrote most of the band’s other songs.
2. When was “Halloween” released?
“Halloween” was released in 1981 as a single, along with the B-side “Halloween II.”
3. Who has covered “Halloween”?
Numerous bands and musicians have covered “Halloween,” including Metallica, Green Day, AFI, and My Chemical Romance.
4. What is the significance of the Misfits’ skull logo?
The Misfits’ skull logo has become an iconic symbol of the band, punk rock, and horror culture. The logo was inspired by a poster for the movie Crimson Ghost and was designed by Glenn Danzig.
5. What other songs are the Misfits known for?
The Misfits are known for songs like “Last Caress,” “Bullet,” “Where Eagles Dare,” and “Die, Die My Darling.”
6. What is horror punk?
Horror punk is a genre of music that combines elements of punk rock and horror-themed imagery and lyrics. The Misfits are considered one of the pioneers of the genre.
7. What is Glenn Danzig’s role in the Misfits?
Glenn Danzig was the lead singer and songwriter of the Misfits. He left the band in 1983 to form Samhain and later Danzig.
8. Why do people cover “Halloween”?
“Halloween” is a popular and enduring song that captures the essence of the holiday and creates a spooky and exciting atmosphere. It has become a Halloween classic and is frequently played during the holiday season.
9. What is the meaning behind the title “All Hallows Eve”?
“All Hallows Eve” is an old English name for Halloween. It refers to the evening before All Saints’ Day, a Christian holiday.
10. What is the significance of the autumn moon in “Halloween”?
The autumn moon in “Halloween” is a symbol of the changing of the seasons and the transition from warm weather to cold and rainy days. It also adds to the mood and atmosphere of the song.
11. What is the Misfits’ legacy?
The Misfits are considered one of the most influential punk bands of all time. They created a unique sound and style that combined horror-themed imagery and lyrics with punk rock and metal music.
12. What is the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a museum and hall of fame located in Cleveland, Ohio. It was established in 1983 to honor the musicians and influencers who have contributed to the development of rock and roll music.
