The Dark Roots and Legacy of Misfits’ Saturday Night
Misfits’ Saturday Night is an anthemic song with a catchy chorus that strikes one’s heart and mind – almost impossible not to sing or hum along. It’s one of their most popular and memorable songs that defined the band’s sound and image – their unique hybrid of punk rock, horror, and sci-fi themes. However, beyond its earworm hooks and irresistible energy, Saturday Night has a profound meaning that resonates with the fans to this day. In this article, we’ll explore the story, inspiration, and significance behind this iconic Misfits’ track.
The Creation of Saturday Night
Saturday Night was first released in 1982 as part of their EP, Evilive, and later included in their album, Walk Among Us. It was written by the band’s founding member and main songwriter, Glenn Danzig, who drew inspiration from his love for classic horror movies, sci-fi, and rock n’ roll. In an interview with Vice, Danzig explained that he wrote Saturday Night with Gene Vincent’s classic rockabilly tune Be-Bop-A-Lula, and The Munsters TV theme in mind. He wanted to create a song that would capture the spirit of the 1950s’ youth culture and combine it with Misfits’ signature punk rock horror aesthetic. He succeeded in doing so and molded Saturday Night into a timeless classic that transcends genres and generations.
The Story of Saturday Night
Saturday Night tells the story of a young couple who sneaks out of their homes to spend the night together. They ride on the boy’s motorcycle, dance in the ballroom, and kiss under the moonlight. However, the night takes a sinister turn when they encounter a gang of ghouls, who want to kill and devour them. The couple runs for their lives, but they ultimately fail to escape from the ghouls’ grip. The song ends with a haunting line, “No one hears your screams when ghouls attack!” – a chilling reminder of the dangers that lurk in the night.
The Themes of Saturday Night
Saturday Night is a fusion of different themes and motifs that make it a nuanced and complex song. The themes of youth rebellion, teenage love, death, and the supernatural all coexist in the storyline and lyrics. Indeed, the song captures the essence of Misfits’ music – a blend of punk nihilism and horror romanticism. The music video for Saturday Night further underscores the band’s flair for the macabre – featuring Danzig in a leather jacket and devilock hairstyle, dancing with a group of female zombies.
The Impact of Saturday Night
Saturday Night has had an immense impact on the punk rock scene and beyond. It’s a staple of Misfits’ live shows, and many punk bands have covered it over the years. The song’s popularity has led to its inclusion in numerous movie soundtracks, commercials, and video games. For instance, it was featured in the hit TV series Stranger Things, which introduced it to a new generation of fans. In 2019, Saturday Night was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of “500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll,” further cementing its legacy.
The Legacy of Misfits’ Music
Saturday Night is just one of the many great songs that Misfits have created over the years. They have been an influential force in the punk rock and horror punk genres, inspiring countless bands around the world. Their music, images, and lore continue to attract new fans, and their merchandise remains popular among collectors. Moreover, Misfits’ members have gone on to successful careers in music and beyond, with Danzig achieving acclaim as a solo artist and business owner.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Saturday Night is a song that has stood the test of time and remains a classic in contemporary music. It captures the spirit of youth rebellion, teenage love, and the supernatural in a way that’s both haunting and compelling. The song’s lyrics, music, and visuals have inspired generations of fans and artists, making it one of the most iconic tracks of all time. Misfits’ music, and especially Saturday Night, reminds us of the power of the human imagination and the timeless themes that unite us all.
