Halloween is just a few days away. Join me, and get in the spirit, with some of the music I have made part of my yearly tradition.

Bela Lugosi as Dracula

Bela Lugosi’s Dracula is iconic. It changed what comes to mind when people think of vampires. With Lugosi in the role, it transformed from the off-putting and monstrous Nosferatu to the alluring and seductive Dracula. Lugosi shaped the modern vampire mythology. So, when my mind goes to the vampire-filled holiday, Bela Lugosi is quick to follow… and inevitably, so too is this song:

Now Playing: Bela Lugosi’s Dead – Bauhaus

In 1979, Bauhaus released their first single “Bela Lugosi’s Dead”. The release of this song is often considered to be the catalyst for the gothic rock genre. The song was recorded live in studio with all four bandmembers contributing to the creation.

In an article celebrating the song’s 30th anniversary, Pop Matters’ AJ Ramirez writes:

“Listening to “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” provides the rare opportunity to hear a style of music emerge fully-formed. Sure, there were clear influences (David Bowie) and important predecessors (Joy Division). But on that 1979 release, Bauhaus pulled all that had come before it together to present something unique: goth.”

Just like its namesake, this song has left a lasting impact on contemporary culture. This gothic rock song about Dracula has a permanent spot on my Halloween playlist.