“I Put a Spell on You” is released in the U.S. in 1956. The song by blues artist Jay Hawkins was recorded first as a ballad, then re-recorded drunk two years later, giving him the “Screamin’” moniker and a million-selling career breakthrough, despite being banned at many radio stations across the country. After the song’s success, Hawkins became perhaps the first shock rock act, performing with a tusk in his nose and a cape, along with snakes, fog, pyrotechnics and a coffin. The song is later covered by a variety of artists.
This Day in Halloween: Blues artist Screamin' Jay Hawkins' "I Put a Spell on You” is released in the U.S. in 1956. / Illustration by CJ Byford
