Ding-Dong! The Witch Is Dead
Bud Shank · Other Songs - Bud Shank
And a wickeder, wickeder, wickeder witch there never, never was
She filled the folks in Munchkin land with terror and with dread
'Till one fine day from Kansas way a cyclone caught a house
That brought the wicked, wicked witch her doom
As she was flying on her broom
For the house fell on her head and the coroner pronounced her dead
And thru the town the joyous news was spread
Ding-dong, the witch is dead! Which old witch? The wicked witch
Ding-dong, the wicked witch is dead
Wake up, you sleepy head, 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 sleepy head, 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
Bud Shank's "Ding-Dong! The Witch Is Dead" stands as a quintessential example of the cool jazz idiom, blending intricate saxophone improvisation with a sophisticated swing rhythm. Recorded during the mid-1950s, this track exemplifies Shank's mastery of the tenor saxophone, showcasing his ability to weave complex melodic lines over a steady, driving beat. The composition reflects the era's fascination with fairy tales and folklore, reimagining the nursery rhyme through a lens of adult sophistication and jazz innovation. As a staple of Shank's discography, the recording highlights his collaborative spirit and technical prowess, cementing his reputation as a leading figure in the cool jazz movement. The piece remains a significant touchstone for fans of swing and jazz, illustrating how traditional themes can be transformed into timeless musical statements.