BILL MESNIK OF THE SPLENDID BOHEMIANS PRESENTS: THE SUNNY SIDE OF MY STREET - SONGS TO MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD - EPISODE #60: HAUNTED HOUSE by Jumpin’ Gene Simmons (Hi, 1964)

I love that the new home owner portrayed in this song squares off against a threatening demon, declaring: “Ain’t no Ha’nt gonna run me off!” This is one ballsy gentleman, Mr. Jumpin’ Gene Simmons. And, fittingly Mr. Chaim Witz of Kiss fame, (another ballsy guy), took his name in tribute to this man. Morris Eugene Simmons (1937-2006) started his career in 1956, at Sun Records, and opened for Elvis Presley, but he hit pay dirt after leaving that label and landing at the fledgling company of Hi, where he made this recording, which peaked at #11 on the Billboard chart. It’s simple, repetitive, and silly, but, man, does it cook! And, when he croons “I’ll be right here when the morning comes….” It’s a statement of unshakeable positivity, a guarantee by a man standing his ground against supernatural forces, and you just know that even if they have to end up living together, Gene ain’t gonna be the one leavin’.