Insights on the 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice' musical score, soundtrack, and the artist behind it
The much-anticipated sequel to the iconic 1988 film, "Beetlejuice," titled "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," is set to be released in the UK on 6 September 2024. Directed by the visionary Tim Burton, this film promises to be a delightful return to the eerie and whimsical world of the original.
Tim Burton and Danny Elfman, a renowned composer-director partnership, are reuniting for this project after almost three decades since their first collaboration. Elfman, who has scored all but three of Burton's blockbusters, is the composer for "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice." However, the specifics of the music in the sequel have not been disclosed.
The soundtrack for the film features an eclectic ensemble of musicians. Besides Elfman, members of Blink-182 and My Chemical Romance, including Tom DeLonge, Mark Hoppus, Travis Barker, Gerard Way, Mikey Way, Ray Toro, and Frank Iero, are credited as recording musicians. Lee Musiker (piano), Lawrence Gray (bass), and Joel Spencer (drums) are also part of the team.
A notable addition to the soundtrack is a spooky choral recording of Harry Belafonte's 'Day-O.' This new version features 16-year-old soloist Alfie Davies and the Sylvia Young Theatre School Choir. Interestingly, this song is sung at Charles Deetz's funeral in the film's official trailer.
While the Broadway adaptation of "Beetlejuice" featured numerous musical numbers, the new film is not expected to include such elements. This sequel, like its predecessor, is likely to rely on Burton's signature blend of dark humour and visual spectacle.
It's worth mentioning that Burton has a history of directing films with significant musical elements. His film "Beetlejuice" was not an exception, with its unforgettable soundtrack contributing to its enduring popularity.
The original "Beetlejuice" was adapted into a Tony Award-nominated stage musical in 2019, written by Eddie Perfect. This adaptation, while enjoyable in its own right, has not influenced the direction of the film sequel.
In an interview with Deadline, Danny Elfman hinted at the upcoming "Beetlejuice" sequel, fuelling the excitement among fans. As we eagerly await the release of "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," we can only speculate about the music that Elfman has in store for us. Until then, let's keep saying "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Beetlejuice!"
