What We Do In The Shadows Theme Song

Ever watched What We Do in the Shadows and found yourself strangely captivated by the music that starts each episode? That's not just any random spooky tune; it's a piece with a surprisingly heartwarming story behind it!

The theme is a short instrumental called "You're Dead." It might sound like something straight out of a dusty old vampire movie. But it's actually by a band called Norma Tanega, a name you might not instantly recognize.

A Song From the Past

"You're Dead" isn't a new creation whipped up just for the show. It was originally released way back in 1966. Think swinging sixties, psychedelic vibes, and bell-bottoms!

Tanega's song isn't like the usual pop hits of the time. It is unusual and a bit quirky, with a repetitive melody and lyrics that are, well, about death! It sounds like a song you might hear while someone is doing some weird dance in a film from the 60s.

How Did It Get Picked?

So, how did this relatively obscure track end up as the theme for a hit vampire comedy? Here's where things get interesting. The show's creator, Jemaine Clement, had a deep appreciation for offbeat music.

Clement was also one half of the comedy musical duo Flight of the Conchords. He wasn't looking for something traditionally spooky or orchestral. Instead, he wanted something unique that captured the show's blend of humor and the macabre.

According to some interviews with people involved with the show, Jemaine Clement chose it from the Norma Tanega album. Clement felt that it was a great fit for the tone he wanted for the show.

A Lasting Legacy

The use of "You're Dead" in What We Do in the Shadows gave the song a whole new lease on life. Suddenly, a new generation was discovering this forgotten gem.

Norma Tanega sadly passed away in 2019, but her music lives on. The show has introduced her work to countless new listeners.

More Than Just a Theme Song

The song itself isn't explicitly about vampires, but it is thematically linked to death. The song is kind of perfect for a series about vampires who are stuck in the modern world.

It’s a reminder that art can have a lasting impact and that unexpected connections can bring forgotten treasures back into the spotlight.

The What We Do in the Shadows theme tune reminds us that great music can come from anywhere, and sometimes, the most unexpected choices are the ones that resonate the most.

So next time you hear "You're Dead" at the start of an episode, remember Norma Tanega and the surprising story behind this delightfully quirky tune. It's a little piece of musical history that found the perfect home in a hilarious vampire world.