Ding Dong! The Witch Is Dead

Glenn Miller · Other Songs - Glenn Miller

(E. Y. Harburg, Harold Arlen)

(vocals: Marion Hutton)



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

Yahoo, let's open up and sing and ring the bells out

Ding-dong, the merry-oh, sing it high, sing it low

Let them know the wicked witch is dead!

Ding Dong! The Witch Is Dead

A hauntingly sweet ballad from the golden age of big band music, "Ding Dong! The Witch Is Dead" was recorded by Glenn Miller and his orchestra in 1941. The song's gentle melody and lyrical narrative about a witch's demise have made it a staple of the swing repertoire, often performed during the Christmas season. Miller's arrangement showcases his signature smooth tone and the intricate interplay of his ensemble, capturing the romantic and slightly whimsical spirit of the era. While the song's origins are sometimes debated, its enduring popularity speaks to its universal appeal and the timeless quality of Miller's composition. It remains a beloved track that exemplifies the sophistication and charm of mid-20th-century American jazz.