Danny Elfman is into the spirit of Halloween by releasing his first new solo single in 36 years called “Happy” via ANTI-, which he just signed to. The dark pop track also comes with its accompanying video, featuring a CGI face of Elfman being morphed into different shapes and sizes. Check out the video below. In a press release, Elfman mentioned that the track was set to debut at Coachella 2020, but has since been pushed back to Fall 2021 due to COVID-19. “I originally wrote “Happy” to perform at Coachella 2020. It was written to be an absurd anti-pop song, designed to begin as a very simple pop tune that degrades into something more subversive,” stated Elfman. He continues to say The cynical nature of the lyrics echo how I feel about living in a semi-dystopian world turned upside down.”

Elfman last collaborated with Tyler, the Creator for their version of “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” in 2018. He most recently released an at-home cover of “Running on a Treadmill,” from his band Oingo Boingo where he served as the lead singer. The track was featured on the band’s second studio album Nothing to Fear, released in 1982.

The now turned composer is notable for his work on many film scores including Tim Burton’s classic film The Nightmare Before Christmas, which then turned into a special live event, which Elfman did not expect.  “The Nightmare Before Christmas also became a special live Concert Halloween event, which became more successful than I’d ever dreamed possible. This really meant a lot to me as the character of Jack Skellington, who I related to quite closely, has for many years been a very special part of my life.”