ROCK MOMENT – Atlanta Rhythm Section ‘Spooky’
‘Spooky’ is one of those rare songs that has lived multiple lives, each version capturing a different era of pop music. Its story begins in 1967, when saxophonist Mike Sharpe (stage name of Mike Shapiro) co-wrote and recorded an instrumental jazz tune called ‘Spooky’ with songwriter Harry Middlebrooks Jr. The track became a regional hit in the American South, known for its sultry saxophone riff and mysterious vibe — perfect for the psychedelic times.
But it was in 1968 that ‘Spooky’ truly came to life. The Atlanta-based band Classics IV, led by singer Dennis Yost, added lyrics to Sharpe’s instrumental. Songwriters James Cobb and Buddy Buie crafted a playful, romantic narrative about a bewitching woman — “Love is kinda crazy with a spooky little girl like you.” The combination of jazzy groove, smooth vocals, and catchy chorus turned the song into a national sensation. It climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, establishing Classics IV as one of the defining soft rock acts of the late ’60s.
The song’s haunting charm didn’t end there. In 1979, the Atlanta Rhythm Section — which included several former members of Classics IV — recorded their own version, giving ‘Spooky’ a laid-back, Southern rock polish. That cover became another Top 20 hit, introducing the song to a new generation.
Over the years, ‘Spooky’ has been covered by countless artists, from Dusty Springfield to Lydia Lunch, each putting their own spin on its sultry mood. Whether performed as jazz, rock, or pop, the song retains its irresistible blend of mystery and romance. Decades later, ‘Spooky’ still casts its timeless spell — a perfect soundtrack for moonlit nights and mischievous love affairs.
