Like The Zombies Do

“Like The Zombies Do” by Zombies (Disney) is a playful yet insightful song that delves into themes of conformity and societal expectations. The lyrics encourage listeners to adopt the behaviors and norms of a particular group—in this case, zombies—to fit in and succeed. The song uses the metaphor of zombies, typically seen as outcasts or different, to highlight the pressures of conforming to societal standards and the benefits that come with it.

The song opens with practical advice on personal grooming and behavior, such as brushing fangs, combing hair, and doing makeup. These actions symbolize the everyday rituals people perform to fit into societal norms. The repeated phrase “Do it like the zombies do” serves as a mantra for conformity, suggesting that blending in and following the crowd can lead to acceptance and success. The lyrics also touch on the idea of not standing out and doing the opposite of what one might naturally do, further emphasizing the theme of conformity.

As the song progresses, it introduces the idea of incremental change—“All you got to do is give an inch, then we gon' take it to the top.” This line suggests that small steps towards conformity can lead to significant rewards. The song also humorously addresses the absurdity of some societal expectations, such as trimming claws and wagging tails like a Labrador, which can be seen as a critique of the sometimes arbitrary nature of social norms. The bridge of the song questions why one should change and suggests that others should conform to them instead, adding a layer of irony and self-awareness to the narrative.

Overall, “Like The Zombies Do” uses the metaphor of zombies to explore the complexities of conformity and societal expectations. It highlights the pressures to fit in while also poking fun at the sometimes ridiculous nature of these expectations, making it a thought-provoking and entertaining piece.