Ding Dong the Witch is Dead Song Lyrics and Meaning
by Sona | Updated Jun 03, 2023
Ding Dong the Witch is Dead
"Ding-Dong! The Witch Is Dead" is a popular song from the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz.""Ding-Dong! The Witch is Dead" is a popular song composed by Harold Arlen. It gained prominence as part of the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz," where it was performed by the Munchkins, Glinda, and Dorothy Gale.
The song includes the participation of the Lollipop Guild and the Winkie soldiers, with studio singers also contributing to the performance. Harold Arlen composed the music, while E. Y. Harburg wrote the lyrics. The song celebrates the demise of the Wicked Witch of the East when Dorothy's house lands on her during a cyclone.
In 2004, "Ding-Dong! The Witch is Dead" was recognized as the 82nd best song in American cinema by the American Film Institute's "100 Years...100 Songs" survey. Following the death of former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in 2013, the song gained significant attention and reached the number two position on the UK Singles Chart.
Ding Dong the Witch is Dead Lyrics
Ding-dong! The witch is dead.
Which old witch? The wicked witch!
Ding-dong! The wicked witch is dead.
Wake up, you sleepyhead,
Rub your eyes, get out of bed.
Wake up, the wicked witch is dead!
She's gone where the goblins go,
Below, below, below yo-ho!
Let's open up and sing and ring the bells out.
Ding-dong! The merry-o, sing it high, sing it low.
Let them know the wicked witch is dead!
Ding-dong! The witch is dead.
Which old witch? The wicked witch!
Ding-dong! The wicked witch is dead.
Wake up, you sleepyhead,
Rub your eyes, get out of bed.
Wake up, the wicked witch is dead!
She's gone where the goblins go,
Below, below, below yo-ho!
Let's open up and sing and ring the bells out.
Ding-dong! The merry-o, sing it high, sing it low.
Let them know the wicked witch is dead!
Meaning of Ding-Dong! The Witch is Dead Song (Harold Arlen)
The song "Ding-Dong! The Witch is Dead," composed by Harold Arlen, holds significant meaning within the context of the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz." This musical piece represents a moment of triumph and relief as the Wicked Witch of the East meets her ultimate demise. With its lively and exuberant lyrics, the song serves as a joyful celebration of overcoming a formidable and malevolent character.
The recurring and catchy chorus of "ding-dong" creates a sense of cheerfulness and liberation, conveying the idea that a significant threat or obstacle has been successfully eliminated. The lyrics encourage listeners to awaken from their slumber and acknowledge the witch's defeat, signaling a fresh start and the potential for new beginnings.
The repetition of "ding-dong" and the mention of ringing bells emphasize the jubilant atmosphere and the desire to spread the news of the witch's demise. The lyrics suggest that the wicked witch has met her end in a realm where goblins reside, implying a permanent departure and the eradication of her malevolence.
In essence, "Ding-Dong! The Witch is Dead" represents a triumphant moment, symbolizing the victory of good over evil and the liberation from a menacing force. It encapsulates the themes of triumph, freedom, and the transformative power of overcoming adversity.
About Harold Arlen
Harold Arlen, born on February 15, 1905, and passed away on April 23, 1986, was an American composer of popular music. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential songwriters of the 20th century. Arlen composed over 500 songs, many of which have become well-known and beloved worldwide.
Some of his most famous compositions include "Over the Rainbow," "Stormy Weather," "That Old Black Magic," and "Get Happy." Arlen's music often incorporated elements of jazz, blues, and swing, showcasing his unique style and versatility.
Arlen gained significant recognition for his collaboration with lyricist E.Y. Harburg on the songs for the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz." Their composition "Over the Rainbow" earned them an Academy Award for Best Original Song and has since become an iconic and enduring classic.
Throughout his career, Arlen contributed greatly to the Great American Songbook, leaving a lasting impact on the world of popular music. His compositions have been performed by numerous artists and continue to be celebrated and cherished by audiences around the globe. Harold Arlen's musical talent and contributions have solidified his legacy as a legendary composer, and his songs continue to be cherished and enjoyed by generations.
Ding Dong the Witch is Dead Song Details
"Ding Dong the Witch is Dead" is a song featured in the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz." It was composed by Harold Arlen, with lyrics written by E.Y. Harburg. The song is part of a larger set-piece performed by the Munchkins, Glinda, and Dorothy Gale.
Song
Ding Dong the Witch is Dead
Album
The Wizard of Oz (Soundtrack)
Singer
Studio singers
Lyrics
E.Y. Harburg
Music
Harold Arlen
Label
MGM Records
Artist
Various artists
Language
English
Songs Genre
Soundtrack, Musical
Released Date
1939
DETAILS
SPECIFICATION
Ding Dong the Witch is Dead: FAQs
"Ding Dong the Witch is Dead" was composed by Harold Arlen, with lyrics written by E.Y. Harburg.
The song "Ding Dong the Witch is Dead" is featured in the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz."
The song celebrates the death of the Wicked Witch of the East when Dorothy's house accidentally lands on her after being caught in a cyclone.
The song is performed by the Munchkins, Glinda (played by Billie Burke), and Dorothy Gale (played by Judy Garland).
The song represents a moment of triumph, relief, and celebration as the Wicked Witch of the East is defeated, emphasizing the triumph of good over evil.