As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves turn shades of orange and brown, Halloween lovers eagerly prepare for one of the most thrilling holidays of the year. While costumes, decorations, and candy play a significant role in the festivities, no Halloween celebration is complete without a hauntingly good soundtrack. Whether throwing a spooky party or setting the mood for a night of scares, these top 10 Halloween tunes will provide the perfect backdrop for your ghostly gatherings.
1. "Thriller" - Michael Jackson (1982)
No Halloween playlist is complete without the King of Pop's iconic "Thriller." With its eerie Vincent Price narration and infectious beat, this song is a timeless classic that will have everyone dancing like zombies at your Halloween bash. Plus, the music video, featuring Jackson's transformation into a werewolf, is a must-watch during the season.
2. "Monster Mash" - Bobby "Boris" Pickett and the Crypt-Kickers (1962)
"Monster Mash" is a graveyard smash that has been a Halloween favourite for generations. With its catchy tune and playful lyrics about classic monsters like Dracula and the Mummy, it's a light-hearted addition to your Halloween playlist that will have guests of all ages grooving.
3. "Ghostbusters" - Ray Parker Jr. (1984)
Who you gonna call? "Ghostbusters"! Ray Parker Jr.'s funky theme song from the classic film is a spirited choice for your Halloween gathering. Its infectious chorus will have your guests chanting along as they reminisce about the supernatural adventures of the Ghostbusters.
4. "Voodoo People" – The Prodigy (1994)
"Voodoo People" by The Prodigy adds an electrifying and haunting rhythm to your Halloween playlist. With its pulsating beats and enigmatic lyrics, it's a track that'll infuse your party with an eerie, high-energy vibe, making it perfect for those who want a dose of electrifying music on All Hallows' Eve.
5. "Somebody's Watching Me" - Rockwell (1984)
With its paranoid lyrics and haunting melody, "Somebody's Watching Me" captures the eerie essence of Halloween. The song's chorus, featuring Michael Jackson's distinctive voice, adds an extra layer of intrigue to this '80s classic.
6. "Witchcraft" - Frank Sinatra (1957)
Frank Sinatra's smooth vocals take centre stage in "Witchcraft." While it may not be spine-chilling, the song's references to love as a bewitching force make it a sophisticated choice for a Halloween party. It's a reminder that love can be both enchanting and mysterious.
7. "Don't Fear the Reaper" - Blue Öyster Cult (1976)
With its haunting guitar riff and lyrics about embracing the inevitable, "Don't Fear the Reaper" by Blue Öyster Cult adds a rock 'n' roll edge to your Halloween playlist. This song captures the eerie atmosphere of the holiday while maintaining a sense of coolness.
8. "Time Warp" - Cast of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" (1975)
For those who love a little theatricality with their Halloween, "Time Warp" from "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" is a must-play. This infectious dance number is a staple at midnight screenings of the cult classic and will have your guests doing the "Time Warp" again and again.
9. "She Wolf" - Shakira (2009)
"She Wolf" by Shakira slinks into your Halloween playlist with its mesmerizing beats and Shakira's evocative vocals. This sultry song adds a touch of mystique to your spooky soundtrack and is sure to have the dancefloor filled with people singing “there’s a she-wolf in the closet”.
10. "Vampire" – Olivia Rodrigo (2023)
“Vampire” by Olivia Rodrigo is the perfect song to conclude your Halloween festivities. Split into three parts, this haunting, contemporary pop song expresses the heartbreak, failure, and rage that so many can relate to. It's sure to have all the girls belting, "you sunk your teeth into me".
Bonus Track: "This Is Halloween" - Danny Elfman (1993)
"This Is Halloween" from Tim Burton's "The Nightmare Before Christmas" is essential to any Halloween playlist. Danny Elfman's whimsical yet eerie composition sets the stage for Halloween with its playful portrayal of the holiday's spooky delights.
Creating the Ultimate Halloween Atmosphere
With these top 10 Halloween songs, your Halloween celebration will surely be a chillingly good time. Whether you're hosting a costume party, decorating your haunted house, or just looking to embrace the eerie vibe of the season, these songs will provide the perfect soundtrack for your festivities. So, dim the lights, light some candles, and let the haunting melodies transport you to a world of ghoulish delights as you celebrate the spooky season.