8 Songs About Vampire
With their immortality, thirst for blood, and uncanny ability to be both alluring and frightening, it’s no wonder that vampires have been a source of inspiration for many artists.
Let’s take a nightly journey through the best vampire inspired songs.
1. “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” by Bauhaus
The Story Behind the Song:
Released in 1979, “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” is often considered the gothic rock anthem. The song, which is an ode to the iconic actor best known for his role as Dracula, encapsulates the eerie allure of the vampire legend.
Why It’s Memorable:
The haunting bassline, combined with Peter Murphy’s chilling vocals, makes it a go-to for any vampire-themed gathering.
Fun Fact:
The song was recorded in a single take and was the band’s first single. It was featured in the opening scene of the 1983 vampire film “The Hunger.”
2. “Love Song for a Vampire” by Annie Lennox
The Story Behind the Song:
Written for the soundtrack of the 1992 film “Bram Stoker’s Dracula,” this ballad by Annie Lennox touches on the tragic romance often associated with vampire lore.
Why It’s Memorable:
Lennox’s ethereal voice paired with the poignant lyrics make it a touching ode to the immortal yet cursed love of the undead.
Fun Fact:
The song’s music video features clips from the movie, and Lennox herself appears as a ghostly figure, adding to the eerie charm.
3. “Dracula’s Wedding” by OutKast featuring Kelis
The Story Behind the Song:
A departure from the typically somber portrayal of vampires, this song from OutKast’s 2003 album “The Love Below” adds a fun twist, portraying Dracula’s vulnerability as he’s about to commit to his immortal beloved.
Why It’s Memorable:
It’s catchy, funky, and the lyrics show a Dracula nervous about commitment, which is an unusual yet endearing take.
Fun Fact:
André 3000 plays the role of Dracula, expressing his anxieties about immortality, while Kelis is the voice of his skeptical bride-to-be.
4. “Night of the Vampire” by Roky Erickson
The Story Behind the Song:
Roky Erickson, with his history of writing songs about monsters and supernatural beings, gives us a raw and gripping account of a vampire’s night out.
Why It’s Memorable:
It’s got that vintage rock feel with eerie guitar riffs, perfectly capturing the chilling allure of a vampire’s nocturnal adventures.
Fun Fact:
Roky’s fascination with horror led to numerous songs about zombies, ghosts, and, of course, vampires.
5. “Moon Over Bourbon Street” by Sting
The Story Behind the Song:
Inspired by Anne Rice’s “Interview with the Vampire,” Sting penned this jazzy number, diving deep into the psyche of a creature of the night.
Why It’s Memorable:
The song’s New Orleans jazz vibe, combined with lyrics detailing a vampire’s inner conflict, makes it both catchy and contemplative.
Fun Fact:
Sting has mentioned that after reading Rice’s book, he felt a connection with the protagonist, Louis, leading to this musical masterpiece.
6. “If I Was Your Vampire” by Marilyn Manson
The Story Behind the Song:
Marilyn Manson’s gothic sensibilities shine in this track. It explores the intense passion and destructive nature of a vampire’s love.
Why It’s Memorable:
The song masterfully combines Manson’s distinctive voice with a moody and atmospheric sound, transporting listeners into the dark world of the undead.
Fun Fact:
The track’s opening beats were inspired by the sound of a hammer nailing a stake into a heart, adding to the dark ambiance.
7. “Vampire Heart” by HIM
The Story Behind the Song:
HIM, known for their love metal genre, brings us a song that merges the themes of undying love with the immortal existence of a vampire.
Why It’s Memorable:
Ville Valo’s soulful voice, paired with the rock-infused melody, resonates with anyone who’s experienced love that feels as eternal as a vampire’s life.
Fun Fact:
The band’s love for all things supernatural is evident in their other tracks too, but this one stands out for its blend of romance and goth.
8. “Fresh Blood” by Eels
The Story Behind the Song:
Mark Oliver Everett, the frontman, gives us a slightly playful yet dark portrayal of a night creature seeking fresh blood.
Why It’s Memorable:
The groovy tune, juxtaposed with the dark theme, makes it a unique addition to any playlist.
Fun Fact:
The song was used in HBO’s “True Blood” promo, fittingly adding to the show’s vampire-themed allure.
