Halloween is finally here! While this season always seems so fleeting, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in spooky season than through music. These 13 tracks are filled with nostalgia and good ol’ fashioned fun. Listen while you get dressed in your costumes, drive down a windy eerie road, or even carving a last minute pumpkin. Happy Halloween!
“Somebody’s Watching Me” by Rockwell: What better way to start off a Halloween playlist than with Rockwell’s classic paranoia track that’ll have you checking over your shoulder? The groove of this song is infectious, not to mention its backing vocals by Michael Jackson. There’s a reason this song becomes a trend every year during spooky season.
“Psycho Killer – 2005 Remaster” by Talking Heads: Inspired by the iconic horror film serial killer, Norman Bates from “Psycho” (1960), this song is both catchy and unsettling. Yet, this song and its lyrics have this haunting confidence attached, making it a must-listen on this playlist.
“Maneater” by Daryl Hall & John Oates: Oh, oh here she comes! This poppy edgy 80s hit was written to feel glamorous and seductive. It reminds me of “Jennifer’s Body” (2009) as Megan Fox plays a literal maneating demon. Watch out boy, this song might chew you up.
“Monster Mash” by Bobby “Boris” Pickett and The Crypt-Kickers: This song will bring you back to days of elementary school Halloween parties and trick-or-treating nostalgia. Its lighthearted monster imagery of bubbling cauldrons and creaking doors will put a smile on your face.
“Thriller” by Michael Jackson: This mini-movie in your ears is naturally beloved by all during this time of year. It’s chilling, funky, and timeless from the track’s production to the music video. One can’t deny Vincent Price’s mini monologue certainly gives some the chills.
“Crystal” by Stevie Nicks: From the soundtrack of “Practical Magic” (1998) this song is whimsical and witchy in the best possible way. Grab your brooms and black hats because anyone who resonates with this track is an honorary witch.
“Season Of The Witch” by Lana Del Rey: Rey’s interpretation of Donovan’s 1966 track is absolutely spellbinding. Recorded for “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark” (2019) this haunting track will leave you in a trance.
“The Dead Dance” by Lady Gaga: Featured in season two of Netflix’s “Wednesday,” Gaga surely knows how to create a theatrical dance scene. This song is definitely one to dance around to, hence the name and its electro-dance pop mood.
“Goo Goo Muck” by The Cramps: Sticking with the “Wednesday” soundtrack, this song made Netflix history in season one when Wednesday Addams did her iconic original dance. Sorry, I just can’t resist a good trend. The show brought this 1981 punk horror song back to life making it the perfect fit for this season.
“Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker Jr.: Who you gonna call? If there’s one song that embodies the spirit of a ghostly Halloween, this one is it. Written for the 1984 film, this cheeky upbeat anthem will tempt you to join the busters in hunting down ghostly ghouls.
“Time Warp” by Little Nell, Patricia Quinn, and Richard O’Brien: From the soundtrack of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” (1975), this song is full of rock ‘n’ roll energy and even dance instructions.
“Superstition” by Stevie Wonder: This funky and gritty song about checking your superstitions and beliefs in things you might not understand is a timeless cautionary tale. The perfect song to bring us back to reality after all the spooky happenings.
“My Girlfriend Is a Witch” by October Country: Let the fun continue with this 1968 psychedelic pop song that’s full of charm. Discovering your girlfriend is a witch has never sounded so good, enchanting, and magical.
Happy listening and happy Halloween!
