"Ding-Dong! The Witch Is Dead" is a song from the 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz." Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Context in the Film: The song is sung by the Munchkins in Munchkinland to celebrate the death of the Wicked Witch of the East, who is crushed by Dorothy's house. It marks a pivotal moment in the story.
Chart Success: In 2013, the song made headlines when it re-entered the UK Singles Chart after the death of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. The campaign to get the song into the charts was in protest against Thatcher's policies, and it reached number two on the chart.
Length Controversy: The original recording of the song is short, just under a minute long. However, for the 2011 re-release of the soundtrack, the song was extended by adding a reprise, making it almost two minutes. This sparked some controversy, with debates about whether it should be considered one or two tracks.
Different Versions: Over the years, various artists and groups have covered "Ding-Dong! The Witch Is Dead," creating their interpretations of the iconic tune. These covers range from jazz renditions to punk rock versions.
Oscar Nomination: The song was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1939 but lost to "Over the Rainbow," another song from "The Wizard of Oz."
Cultural Impact: "Ding-Dong! The Witch Is Dead" has become a cultural reference and has been parodied and referenced in various forms of media over the years. It remains one of the most recognizable songs from "The Wizard of Oz."
These facts showcase the enduring popularity and cultural significance of "Ding-Dong! The Witch Is Dead."