China Anne McClain’s Disney hit “Calling All the Monsters” became an iconic Halloween anthem for our generation. Many listeners — like me — would consider it our generation’s “Monster Mash.” As we close out Monstober, It’s a good time to reflect on how much of a revolutionary Halloween song Disney gifted us.

Released in 2011, “Calling All the Monsters” promoted an A.N.T. Farm Halloween episode “MutA.N.T. Farm,” in which McClain starred. The song’s popularity was undeniable, especially in my third-grade classroom, where it went triple platinum 

From the electrifying buildup of the pre-chorus:

“Gonna get your body shakin’ /

Wishin’ you could just awaken (here we go)”

To the catchy, spirited chorus that makes you forget this is a Disney song and not a club classic. 

“Tonight, all the monsters gonna dance /

We’re comin’ to get ya /

Tonight, all the monsters gonna dance /

We’re comin’ to get ya /

If you’re only dreamin’ /

Why I hear you screamin’ /

Tonight, all the monsters gonna dance /

We’re comin’ to get ya, we’re coming to get ya”

This song is the perfect blend of spooky and danceable, making it a Halloween staple that will be enjoyed for generations and forever hold a spot on any Halloween playlist. 

To celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2021, McClain’s band Triii, alongside her sisters Lauryn and Sierra, released an updated version of the song serving a more modern and mature approach while keeping the classic lyrics. McClain’s younger brother Gabriel, also known as “Messenger,” was featured with a very spooky and ghoulish rap verse that was the perfect missing piece to the song.

We better see you monsters on the dance floor tonight and happy Halloween!