Top 10 Songs To Get You In The Halloween Spirit
- Jenn Garcia
- Aug 3, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 19
As autumn sets in and the air turns crisp, it is the perfect time to pull together a soundtrack that captures the spirit of the season.
Whether you are hosting a Halloween party, decorating your space, or simply enjoying the cozy vibe of October, the right music sets the tone in the best way. This curated list blends old favorites with eerie hits that feel right at home this time of year.
From funky beats to haunting melodies, these ten songs are made to elevate your playlist and add something memorable to your Halloween celebrations.
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Here is a quick look at what made our top ten:
"Thriller" by Michael Jackson
"Monster Mash" by Bobby Pickett
"This is Halloween" by Danny Elfman
"Ghostbusters" by Ray Parker Jr.
"Superstition" by Stevie Wonder
"Spooky" by The Classics IV
"I Put a Spell on You" by Screamin Jay Hawkins
"Season of the Witch" by Donovan
"The Time of the Season" by The Zombies
"Don't Fear the Reaper" by Blue Oyster Cult
Keep reading for a full breakdown of why each song belongs on your Halloween playlist.
1) "Thriller" - Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson's "Thriller" is the definitive Halloween anthem. The music video is a masterpiece of horror-themed pop culture, complete with graveyards, zombies, and a chilling transformation. Vincent Price’s spoken-word segment gives it an eerie charm that has stood the test of time.
The beat is infectious and the choreography is iconic, which is why it resurfaces every year as the go-to track for Halloween dance parties. It captures both the fun and fright of the season in a way that no other song has quite matched.
2) "Monster Mash" - Bobby "Boris" Pickett
"Monster Mash" is the lighthearted side of Halloween. Released in 1962, it features a mad scientist narrating a monster party complete with Dracula, the Wolfman, and Frankenstein’s monster.
Its retro vibe and goofy storytelling make it perfect for parties with kids or nostalgic adults. The vocal impersonations and bouncy beat turn it into more than just a novelty song. It’s a cultural touchstone that has earned its place on every Halloween playlist.
3) "This Is Halloween" - Danny Elfman (from "The Nightmare Before Christmas" soundtrack)
Featured in the film "The Nightmare Before Christmas," this song introduces listeners to Halloween Town and its residents. Each verse is delivered by a different character, giving the track a theatrical and immersive quality.
Danny Elfman’s composition blends creepy with whimsical, making it appealing to children and adults alike. The storytelling aspect enhances the song’s mood and makes it a favorite for anyone who loves animated or fantastical Halloween worlds.
4) "Ghostbusters" - Ray Parker Jr.
This hit song from the blockbuster movie "Ghostbusters" brings energy and humor to the Halloween lineup. With its infectious chorus and clever lyrics about ghostly encounters, it instantly gets people singing along. The music video and movie association add a nostalgic factor that amplifies its appeal. It’s playful, upbeat, and just spooky enough to fit the theme without being too intense for younger audiences.
5) "Superstition" - Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder’s "Superstition" infuses funk into the Halloween season. The lyrics touch on classic superstitions like broken mirrors and the number thirteen, creating a sense of ominous warning. The clavinet-driven groove is instantly recognizable and sets a mysterious, slightly tense mood. It may not reference monsters or ghosts directly, but it speaks to the underlying fears and beliefs that are often tied to Halloween.
6) "Spooky" - The Classics IV
"Spooky" is a smooth blend of romance and mystery. The lyrics describe an elusive and slightly mischievous woman, making it feel more like a Halloween tale told in candlelight. Its soft rock instrumentation and whispered vocals give it a sensual yet eerie tone.
It’s not as overtly Halloween-themed as others, but the title and mood make it a great choice for quieter, more atmospheric playlists.
7) "I Put a Spell on You" - Screamin' Jay Hawkins
Screamin' Jay Hawkins delivers one of the most theatrical and haunting performances in music history with this track. His howls and growls turn the bluesy melody into a possession of sound.
The lyrics about casting a spell blur the line between love and madness, a theme that fits perfectly with Halloween’s mix of the sensual and the sinister. It’s a raw and emotional track that adds intensity to your Halloween soundtrack.
8) "Season of the Witch" - Donovan
This psychedelic folk-rock song is full of swirling guitars and cryptic lyrics. Donovan captures the mysterious and slightly unsettling feeling of the changing seasons. The title alone fits the Halloween theme, but the dreamy, wandering vibe gives it a unique place in the playlist. It’s especially good for setting a mood during casual get-togethers or background ambiance while carving pumpkins.
9) "The Time of the Season" - The Zombies
Though not a Halloween song by design, this track’s haunting vocals and echo-laden production give it a spectral quality. The slow tempo and seductive lyrics create a dreamlike atmosphere that works well for late-night Halloween events. Its inclusion brings a different energy to the playlist, offering depth and a sense of nostalgia.
10) "Don't Fear the Reaper" - Blue Öyster Cult
This song explores the theme of mortality with poetic grace. Its chorus urges listeners not to fear death, a message wrapped in an ominous yet comforting melody. The guitar riff is legendary, and the ghostly background vocals elevate the song’s mood. While darker than other songs on this list, it captures Halloween’s essence of facing fears and embracing the unknown.
These tracks are more than background noise. They set the stage for everything from costume parties to quiet evenings by candlelight. Music is one of the easiest ways to create atmosphere, and this playlist brings a rich mix of fun, fright, and nostalgia to your celebration.
