Are you looking to get spUKEy this Halloween season? I know I am! Yes, that’s right, it’s that time of year again! The air is crisp, the leaves are changing, and everyone is stocking up on candy. So to help all you ghosts, goblins, and other monstrosities get in the (F)right state of mind, we’ve put together tutorials for 3 classic halloween tunes you can play on your ukulele to bring the thrills and chills of Halloween to you and yours. So grab your uke, pull on your costume, and let’s get spooky with it.
Song 1: Ghostbusters
If there’s something strange, in your neighborhood…What you gonna play?
This Ray Parker Jr theme tune from the blockbuster movie is one of the most universally loved and recognized songs on any Halloween playlist that wants to be taken seriously. Just today, I heard it twice as a ringtone when a coworker’s phone went off. Even if you haven’t seen the movie – which was one of Terry’s all-time favorites growing up by the way – chances are good you will still know the song (and who to call!).
Above is Terry’s tutorial for Ghostbusters, which will have you grooving along with Venkman, Spengler, and the rest of the gang in no time! Make sure to stick around till the end for a play/sing-along, and if you want the chords, just check for the link in the video description for a free chord/lyric sheet.
Song 2: The Monster Mash
Ok, let me see if I can get this right…
I was working on this blog post, late one night
When my eyes beheld an eerie sight
For Terry from his Studio, began to play
And suddenly his ukulele
He played the mash… he played the Monster Mash!
I think that’s how it goes anyways… Let’s check out Terry’s video and sing along to see if I was right.
Ok, well, I was close. I guess I’ll leave this one to Bobby “Borris” Pickett, Terry, and you. Learn this groovy spook fest from 1962 and I promise you’ll be a hit at this year’s Halloween shindig!
Song 3: I Put a Spell on You
I’ll spare you another attempt at a lyrical rewrite with a ukulele twist on this one…
I Put a Spell on You might be a little less familiar to some, but that doesn’t mean it is any less spooky! If you want to slow it down this Halloween and put your audience under your musical spell, there is no better song for the job.
Although this song has been performed by many different artists, perhaps most famously by Nina Simone, Terry is here to teach you all the original Screaming Jay Hawkins version from 1956. Screaming Jay Hawkings… now that’s a fitting name. If you aren’t familiar with this version, make sure to check it out, and stick around for the ending to understand how Screaming Jay got his name…
Here is the tutorial and play-along from Terry:
I hope you enjoyed these three tutorials and are feeling adequately prepared to bring the spook this October! If you’re digging the electric uke and want to pick one up, make sure to check out our store for great deals and all the accessories you need to start rocking out.
Read more: Ukulele With A Pickup… Do You Need One?
Looking for more lessons on chords, techniques, and songs to help you along on your own ukulele journey? Well, grab your virtual pillow case and head over to our site www.ukelikethepros.com for some sweets that won’t make you pUKE! We offer you a bunch of great ukulele content that comes hand-in-hand with an awesome ukulele community that will support you in this journey. Make sure to wear your costume!
