Monsters! 👾 Ghosts! 👻 Aliens! Oh my!
Two more weeks until Halloween! My workplace is getting super ready and excited as the kids can’t wait to try on their costumes. As I don’t have a lot of money this year, I decided to wear a costume that I wore many years ago. I am going to show up as the Pink Ranger from the Japanese superhero show Dekaranger (or Power Rangers SPD in the US). One of my coworkers might show up as Santa Claus for Halloween just to surprise the kids! 😆
What are you doing for Halloween? And if you don’t celebrate Halloween, do you celebrate The Day of the Dead (El Día de los Muertos)? Perhaps Samhain? Any other celebrations? Let me know in the comments below. It is interesting to learn about how people celebrate different holidays.
The Two Halloween Monster Classics Are…
Today’s Battle of the Songs is a Halloween-themed one! It was really hard to pick two songs for this battle. There are so many great songs! But, my heart told me to choose classic rock and roll songs from the 50s and 60s. There are so many beloved Halloween classics during these two decades. But, I picked Bobby Pickett’s “Monster Mash” and Sheb Wooley’s “Purple People Eater”. Even though I cannot exactly tell you why I love these two classics, I just love them! Maybe because they are classics that are unforgotten and enjoyed by many.
Please listen to each song and vote for your favorite one in the comments below!
And before you start on today’s battle, be sure to listen to my Halloween playlist! A spooktacular collection of Halloween-related songs from different decades and countries. It is perfect for any occasion! Need a playlist for this weekend’s Halloween party? This is THE one! Need a playlist to get you in the Halloween mood? This playlist will get you totally in the mood!
Bobby Pickett’s “Monster Mash”
“Monster Mash” is always the first song to pop up in my mind whenever I think about Halloween songs. This classic dance song from 1962 tells a story about a mad scientist. He creates a monster to dance the mad scientist’s new dance. There are many references in the lyrics to 60s dances like the Twist and the Mashed Potato. Even the song has its own dance! Of course, this song is a pretty catchy tune that anyone, any age can dance to. This is due to its simple time signature and catchy lyrics.
While listening to the song, did you hear the singer mention “The Crypt-Kickers Five”? That was actually the name of the team behind the song. They were Gary S. Paxton, Leon Russell, Johnny MacRae, Rickie Page, and Terry Berg. Meanwhile, Bobby Pickett, an aspiring actor at the time who was also in a band, provided the main vocals. He sang with the girl group The Blossoms, who provided backup vocals.
Check out the video above that is a performance from a classic American music show American Bandstand. During his performance, Bobby Pickett does a great job imitating actor Boris Karloff.
Sheb Wooley’s “Purple People Eater”
This song actually came about after Wooley heard a joke told by a friend’s kid. After hearing the joke, Wooley quickly wrote the song in about an hour’s time. The story tells about a one-eyed, one-horned, flying, purple people eater. This alien journeys to Earth in hopes to join a rock n’ roll band. Though the song’s story seems a bit crazy, a lot of young people loved “The Purple People Eater” so much when it was released.
Yes, the song is quirky. But, its silliness is what makes the song so loved. What else makes the song so beloved is the dance beat. Like the “Monster Mash”, “The Purple People Eater” is written in a simple time signature. This makes the song easy to bop to. Even dance a routine to the beat!
The Purple People Eater” was Sheb Wooley’s only No. 1 hit on the Billboard charts. The song has covered many times. One notable cover is by movie icon Judy Garland with her darker portrayal.
Here is some trivia about the song: At first, the record company MGM Records initially refused to release the song. But, Wooley insisted to release this song. He sent an acetate disc to the record company’s New York office. Once opened, the song became a hit with the young people as up to 50 people listened to the song during their lunch break. After hearing this, MGM Records decided to release the single.[1]
Who Will It Be?
Now it is your turn to vote! Who will be the victor? Tell me in the comments below! I can’t wait to hear what you guys think!
I am also part of the “Battle of the Bands” blog collection. After you vote, please visit the other battles:
🌞 Visit TOSSING IT OUT by clicking HERE.
🌞 Visit MIKE’S RAMBLINGS’by clicking HERE.
🌞 Visit CURIOUS AS A CATHY by clicking HERE.
🌞 Visit THE SOUND OF ONE HAND TYPING by clicking HERE
🌞 Visit JINGLE JANGLE JUNGLE by clicking HERE.
🌞 Visit ANGELS BARK by clicking HERE.
🌞 Visit THE DOGLADY’S DEN by clicking HERE.
🌞 Visit CHERDO ON THE FLIPSIDE by clicking HERE.
🌞 Visit STMoC PRESENTS BATTLE OF THE BANDS by clicking HERE.
Pin This!
References
[1] Rawhide – The Complete First Season, Episode 16: Incident of the Misplaced Indians, CBS DVD, 2006
Purple people eater for sure!!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Monster Mash wins handsdown!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
for the love of the music junkies! here is your cup of tea!
Thanks for stopping by and the wonderful words!
How can you ever possibly choose between these two classic Halloween songs? Although I suppose if I had to, Monster Mash has a tiny, tiny edge.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I really love this song “Purple People Eater”. And this is the best song for Halloween
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
That’s so cool that you will dress up as the Pink Ranger. I loved Power Rangers when I was a child. I didn’t hear any of these songs before, so thanks for introducing them to me.
I am still a Power Rangers fan! The Pink Ranger is so cool! Thanks for stopping by!
My favorite Halloween song is “Thriller” By Michael Jackson!
That is a great song! Can you do the dance?
Hi Amy; I didn’t realize you were still participating in BOTB, as they publish on the 1st and/or the 15th, elsewhere. Must add your link to my posts again. 🙂 (PS: You’re not listed on Stephen’s master list, either. You should ask him to add you.)
We haven’t been involved with Halloween in years, or most other holidays except the ones in December. There are dogs in the house and that’s not a happy combination with Trick or Treaters. MONSTER MASH gets my vote, here. It is the quintessential Halloween song and makes me smile. Happy Halloween to you! 🎃
My BOTB entry: Battle of the Seattle Bands
I think I was on before but maybe I was taken off because I was absent during the summer. I don’t post right on the 1st/15th (as I might have work on those days), but I do try to get a battle in a day after.
I hope you had a great Halloween! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
You are setting us all up for Halloween music trivia, I never knew the stories of the artists behind these songs. Monster Mash is such a classic and seems to be the first song, next to Thriller, on any Halloween playlist.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
How cool! This post gave me all the Halloween vibes!!! We celebrate the Day of the dead!
Oooh, how do you celebrate Day of Dead? I am interested to hear how one celebrates it? I heard in class when I studying Spanish but not from someone who celebrates it.
I don’t enjoy dressing up … but my husband loves too. My kids are going to be a knight and princess Jasmine this year.
That song is so great, haha really perfect for Halloween parties, great choice..! And it’s nice that you’ve shared facts about the vocalist.
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite tune?
That is awesome that your kids got to dress up as a knight and Princess jasmine. I know Aladdin characters are super popular this year!
Super love both actually!!! Monster Mash is awesome actually. That would be my pick.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
AMY ~
This was a very fun, clever approach to a Halloween-themed BOTB! Good stuffs!
Whenever I hear the song ‘Purple People Eater’ I can’t help thinking of the Minnesota Vikings football team of yesteryear. This excerpt comes from Wackypedia:
Purple People Eaters were the defensive line of the Minnesota Vikings from the late 1960s to the late 1970s. The term is a reference to a popular song from 1958, the efficiency of the defense, and the color of their uniforms. The motto of the Purple People Eaters was “Meet at the quarterback.”
However, having said that, I definitely like the song ‘MONSTER MASH’ better, so that’s where my vote lands.
Great Battle concept, Amy!
~ D-FensDogG
STMcC Presents BATTLE OF THE BANDS
I never there was a nickname for the Minnesota Vikings as Purple People Eaters. And my 6th-grade teacher was a huge fan! Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Purple for me… I love how detailed you in this. Its an interesting insight.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
It is completely impossible to choose among these songs.
I love the both. Sorry.
It is ok to choose both! Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I love a piece of good upbeat music for Halloween. I rather dance during this festivity.
What kind of songs do you listen for Halloween?
First time for me to hear this song they’re both a good song but the purple people eater is the most I like!
These songs are great and perfect for Halloweens.. We do celebrate Halloween parties but it is not that popular in our country.
Where do you live?
The moment that I saw the title of this, I knew that “Monster Mash” had to make the list! It’s such a classic for this time of year!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Oh my goodness! Yes to both of these songs. What classics! I love listening to spooky music during Halloween. Monster Mash is definitely the winner for me here, but I love both of these songs.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Awesome Halloween classics! It’s very difficult to choose just one but if I had to choose I’d go with Monster Mash.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
My kids love Halloween which I did not celebrate as a child but now embrace for my children. They would enjoy those two hit.
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite tune?
This is great information. I am very new to the Halloween culture because I recently moved in and I am loving everything I am reading about Halloween!
Really, that is interesting! Do you have a Halloween-like holiday or celebration back at your home country (or some sort of celebration for the dead)?
This holiday season is so fun and still scary with those costumes looking so real) I would get scared seeing some on the street.
Thanks for stopping by! Do you celebrate Halloween?
Thats a new collection to my song list. I love different types of songs and a singer myself so obviously your post interested me very much.
Thanks for stopping by! What is your favorite type of music?
How cute are these music ideas for a Halloween party! I’d love to give them a try for our family gathering next week
How did your Halloween party go? Did you try using these songs?
I like the idea of a monster battle with Halloween hits. Classics are always a plus!
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite tune?
Monster Mash. Such a classic jam!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I love both of these songs, and each one brings me different memories from when I was younger. Even though I love both songs I think I’d have to side with the Monster Mash, because I still sing it with my kids now and don’t usually sing the Purple People Eater.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Monster Mash go go go!
Sounds neat and retro hahaha
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
It is always nice to see Halloween decor being up. I always liked listening to people’s Halloween playlists! It’s one of those vibes where you get a handful once a year. All of these songs are classics! Love them!
Nancy ♥ exquisitely.me
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite Halloween tune?
Gotta love Halloween! These are new to me but I like Monster Mash better.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
love this sharing of the halloween hits shared, i love retro, thanks for this
cheers, siennylovesdrawing
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite tune?
I got a new idea from your post. Thanks for sharing.
Wonderful! Please share your post!
Wonderful article… really interesting! Although therers no craze for Halloween where I stay, but it’s fun to read stuff like this!
Is there any Halloween-like celebrations or holidays where you live?
Glad to see you back in Battle!
When I was a kid I liked “Purple People Eater” a lot, but now I have a preference for “Monster Mash” which is where I cast my vote.
Arlee Bird
Tossing It Out
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
There’s no way you can choose BETWEEN both of them, you got to choose BOTH of them.
It’s ok to vote for both! Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
He did the mash, he did the monster mash.
Love it.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Monster mash is solid for me. Loved this song since I was a kid.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Monster mash is a classic. I think everybody loves that. But I don’t think I’ve introduced it to my kids… time to do that now!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I choose purple!! and i m sure my girls would too!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I have to go with the Purple People Eater! My cousin used to have this crazy monster stuffed animal that was purple so we sang this song all the time about that little thing. For that reason, with the memories it brings, that’s my choice!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Monster Mash is the perfect Halloween song! Nothing else comes close.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I still love the monster mash! I think its just the most fun song haha!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
We listen to a lot of Halloween themed music this time of year. We usually celebrate
Halloween with trick or treating as well as dressing up, themed movies, and themed dinner and drinks.
Thanks for stopping by! It is nice to hear about your Halloween traditions! They seem lovely! What was your favorite Halloween tune?
This is a great song. I enjoyed listening to the Monster mash
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I love them both! It’s hard to choose. I guess if I had to, I’d pick Monster Mash. It’s very catchy.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
There is no way that I could chose between these two songs! I love them both. This year I am still trying to decide what I want to be. We usually do a family costume but this year my daughters all have other plans. One of them is going to be Owlet and the other two are going to be from Miraculous Lady Bug.
Monster Mash is a given for all Halloween occasions. Purple People Eater is something I usually associate with football and the decades old Minnesota Vikings defense.
That is what someone said above and it something new I learned! Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Monster mash will always be Halloween to me!
I always have time for the Monster Mash! Love that song 😀
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I love them both! Great choices!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
monster mash has always been my all time Halloween favorite
That song is so great, haha really perfect for Halloween parties, great choice..! And it’s nice that you’ve shared facts about the vocalist.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Oh gosh, the Monster Mash. I absolutely LOVED that song when I was a kid! Thanks so much for sharing this with us!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Super idea, I love the 50s and 60s rock and roll!
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite tune from the 50s and 60s?
This brings so much nostalgia! What a treat to recall these two great numbers, and I love your trivia on both of them. A song written under an hour, that goes viral, is very cool!
Thanks for stopping by and the wonderful words!
looks like some funky music i could jam too!
Thanks for stopping by and the wonderful words!
The Monster Mash! I used to listen to it when I was a kid! I need to share it with my students! 🙂
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Nice choice/pick! I love Bobby Pickett’s “Monster Mash”. Thank you for the share.
Love Monster Mash, so cool and very pleasant to hear with a twist of spookiness!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I wouldn’t mind either song for some spooky vibes! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite tune?
what a brilliant post, unfortunately here in Europe we do not take Halloween as serious but still enjoyed reading your post.
Thanks for stopping by and the wonderful words!
I loved reading the trivia. Interesting that at first, the record company MGM Records refused to release the song. But, Wooley insisted to release this song. He sent an acetate disc to the record company’s New York office. I’m so glad he was successful.
I’m glad that you learned something about the song! Thanks for stopping by!
As I start to get ready for all the trick or treaters, bagging up the goodies – I will cast my vote for Bobby Pickett’s “Monster Mash” this time around. Halloween is such a fun tradition and harking back to the classics like this is another great way to enjoy this time of year.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Super love it! Getting ready for Halloween and I think Monster Mash is a good pick.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
That was such a great song for Halloween parties.. It’s cool that you even shared about its vocalist.. 😘
I love them both and perfect for Halloween I like their music 🙂
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
totally sets me up for proper mood. Music is so easy to set a right mood! I like both
Thanks for stopping by and the wonderful words!
Great fun songs for Halloween! Your knowledge is on point!
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite tune?
I haven’t heard these songs but they are spot on for Halloween. I love Michael Jackson’s Thriller too.
That is a classic Halloween tune!
Thanks for stopping by!
I didn’t know the story behind Monster Mash’s song. Nice one.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Really amaazing collection for Halloween parties. Would check these out on Spotify .
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite tune?
This is cool! These songs are perfect for Halloween. I love Bobby Pickett’s Monster Mash. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
These song titles did not sound familiar to me until I listened to them. I have definitely heard Monster Mash many times but this was the first time hearing the original. Purple People Eater was a new one.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I feel like i’ve heard these two songs on repeat since October first! LOL
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite Halloween tune?
This could be the best playlist on Halloween night. They are so cool and good. This is brilliant. Thank you~
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite tune?
The Monster Mash for me! Brings back lots of great memories trick or treating and halloween parties when I was a kid! Super fun post!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Hahaha I’m so glad you posted a video for Purple People Eater because I have never heard that song before in my life. Still, Monster Mash wins for me.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I love both songs. The music is just what I love.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
These are great! I could have used some of these for my halloween party planning checklist! It’s hard to find halloween songs but these are a couple great ideas!
The Purple people eater definitely is a win! Love the rhythm!!
The Handy Journal –
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I love Halloween songs! Purple People Eater is one of my favorites, but I also love Monster Mash – it’s classic!
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
The reason I love both of these songs for Halloween is that they have a very old sound which is a nice change from all the current pop music.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
This is such a great idea for Halloween fun! We loved doing these when we were kids
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite Halloween tune?
So interesting to think about the history of these songs! I love them both
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
We don’t really celebrate Halloween, but we go to Fall festivals,
Anyway, I’d vote for Monster Mash
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
I loved the Monster Mash! Bobby Picket is amazing. Such a cool memory lane.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
Monster mash still the coolest. And I still.don’t have Halloween costumes for this year hahaha. Maybe I wear as a Santa too.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
wow! These songs are the classic songs for Halloween. I like them both, but I love the Purple People Eater.
Thanks for the vote! Check out the result as well as the newest battle: https://ailovemusic.net/black-mirror-nine-inch-nail-ashley-o/
So cool! With this post you finally gave me the Halloween vibes!!!
Letś celebrate!
Thanks for stopping by! What was your favorite Halloween tune?
Like!! I blog frequently and I really thank you for your content. The article has truly peaked my interest.
I learn something new and challenging on blogs I stumbleupon everyday.
I learn something new and challenging on blogs I stumbleupon everyday.
Pingback: Travel Back With "Journey to the Past" - ai love music