Halloween isn’t just about the costumes and sweets; it’s about creating the perfect spooky atmosphere.
And what better way to set the tone than with the ultimate Halloween playlist?
Whether you’re throwing a party, preparing for trick-or-treaters, or just looking for a soundtrack to get you in the spooky spirit, we’ve got you covered.
From classic anthems to modern hits, here are 40 of the best Halloween songs to make your night unforgettable.
Pop Culture Icons: Halloween Songs That Define the Season
Some songs have earned their place as Halloween essentials, dominating playlists every year.
These pop culture icons are must-haves for your playlist.
“Thriller” – Michael Jackson (1982)
This one hardly needs an introduction. From Vincent Price’s creepy voice-over to that iconic dance, “Thriller” isn’t just a Halloween staple—it’s a legend.
The song’s enduring popularity ensures its spot at the top of any Halloween music playlist.
“Vampire” – Olivia Rodrigo (2023)
Olivia’s brooding hit is a modern anthem that brings intensity and raw emotion to any spooky playlist. Its angsty and dark vibe fits Halloween celebrations perfectly.
“Disturbia” – Rihanna (2008)
With eerie melodies and haunting lyrics, Rihanna’s “Disturbia” delivers spooky energy that keeps the dance floor moving into the night, a must for Halloween party music.
“Somebody’s Watching Me” – Rockwell (1984)
Nothing captures the paranoia of Halloween quite like Rockwell’s “Somebody’s Watching Me.”
It’s the ultimate stalker anthem, and with Michael Jackson on the hook, it’s impossible not to sing along.
It’s perfect for adding an edge to your scary Halloween music collection.
“Haunted” – Beyoncé (2013)
Beyoncé’s moody, atmospheric track adds an eerie edge to any Halloween playlist. Play this one when the lights are low and the ghosts come out.
“Heads Will Roll” – Yeah Yeah Yeahs (2009)
This indie rock banger blends creepy lyrics with an upbeat tempo, making it perfect for your Halloween dance playlist.
“Bad Guy” – Billie Eilish (2019)
With its mischievous, moody vibe, “Bad Guy” is a must-have for a spooky, energetic party atmosphere.
Halloween Classics: The Essential Tracks
Some songs are simply timeless. These Halloween classics have been haunting parties and playlists for decades, and for good reason.
Whether you’re aiming for fun, spooky, or a little bit of both, these songs are essential for setting the perfect Halloween vibe.
“Monster Mash” – Bobby “Boris” Pickett (1962)
You can’t talk about Halloween without mentioning “Monster Mash”. This campy track has been a party favourite for decades, and its goofy charm never gets old.
It brings just the right amount of fun to any Halloween gathering.
“Ghostbusters” – Ray Parker Jr. (1984)
Who you gonna call? “Ghostbusters” is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any Halloween gathering.
Its upbeat tempo adds light-hearted fun to the spooky season.
“I Put a Spell on You” – Screamin’ Jay Hawkins (1956)
This spellbinding classic is dark and moody, ideal for setting a mysterious atmosphere.
Whether it’s Hawkins’ version or a cover, this track always casts a magical spell over the room.
“This Is Halloween” – Danny Elfman (1993)
Straight from The Nightmare Before Christmas, this whimsical yet eerie tune is a must for any Halloween playlist, bringing the perfect blend of spooky fun and dark fantasy.
“Time Warp” – Richard O’Brien (Rocky Horror Picture Show, 1975)
It’s just a jump to the left! A Halloween party wouldn’t be complete without everyone doing the “Time Warp.”
Its infectious energy makes it a cult favourite, guaranteed to get everyone moving.
“Purple People Eater” – Sheb Wooley (1958)
Fun, quirky, and perfect for kids, “Purple People Eater” is one of those Halloween songs that’s silly enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face, no matter their age.
“Werewolves of London” – Warren Zevon (1978)
Zevon’s iconic howls and catchy piano riff have made this song a Halloween classic.
It’s the perfect mix of spooky and laid-back, making it a great addition to your playlist.
Spooky Tracks You Didn’t Know You Needed
Halloween playlists don’t just have to be about the well-known hits.
Some songs fly under the radar, but they bring just the right amount of creepiness to elevate your spooky soundtrack.
“Red Right Hand” – Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds (1994)
A chilling track popularised by its use in movies and TV shows like Peaky Blinders, it adds a dark, brooding atmosphere to any Halloween playlist.
The eerie vibes and ominous lyrics make it perfect for setting a sinister mood.
“Goo Goo Muck” – The Cramps (1981)
Thanks to Wednesday Addams and her viral dance, this quirky track from The Cramps has made a spooky comeback, earning its spot in the Halloween hall of fame.
“Pet Sematary” – The Ramones (1989)
Written for the movie adaptation of Stephen King’s horror novel, this punk rock anthem brings a jolt of energy to any Halloween playlist.
“Season of the Witch” – Donovan (1966)
With its psychedelic groove and eerie lyrics, this classic track fits right into any Halloween night. It’s the perfect song for when the witches come out to play.
“She Wolf” – Shakira (2009)
Who knew Halloween could be this danceable? Shakira’s “She Wolf” brings a spooky howl to the dance floor, keeping things creepy while still fun.
“Superstition” – Stevie Wonder (1972)
With its funky beat and spooky undertones, “Superstition” brings just the right amount of groove to balance out the scare factor. It’s perfect for getting people on their feet.
“Cry Little Sister” by Gerard McMann (1987)
This haunting theme from The Lost Boys perfectly captures the eerie, dark tones needed for your Halloween playlist.
Kid-Friendly Halloween Hits
Halloween isn’t just for adults! These songs bring the spooky spirit to younger audiences, keeping things fun and playful without being too scary.
“Calling All the Monsters” – China Anne McClain (2011)
This Disney Channel favourite is a Halloween staple for kids. With a catchy beat and spooky lyrics, it’s perfect for getting little ones excited for the holiday.
“Spooky, Scary Skeletons” – Andrew Gold (1996)
What started as a children’s song has become a viral hit thanks to TikTok, making “Spooky, Scary Skeletons” a must-have for any Halloween playlist, no matter the age group.
“I Want Candy” – Bow Wow Wow (1982)
Whether you’re trick-or-treating or just enjoying some sweets, this track is the perfect sugary treat for your playlist.
“Witch Doctor” – David Seville (1958)
Light-hearted and fun, this song is perfect for kids’ Halloween parties.
It’s goofy enough to keep things playful while staying on-theme.
“This House is Haunted” – Alice Cooper (2003)
This track has just enough spooky vibes to feel eerie, but it’s still fun for older kids who want something a bit more mature in their Halloween mix.
Horror Movie Soundtracks to Set the Mood
No Halloween playlist is complete without the chilling soundtracks from the most iconic horror films.
These tracks, known for sending shivers down your spine, have become synonymous with Halloween itself.
Add them to your playlist to evoke that classic horror atmosphere.
If you’re in the mood for more eerie entertainment, why not explore some binge-worthy short horror films on YouTube?
Check out The Ultimate Cheat Sheet to Short Films on YouTube for a collection of creepy, weird, and perfectly short films that are just long enough to enjoy while getting into the Halloween spirit.
“The Exorcist Theme (Tubular Bells)” – Mike Oldfield (1973)
The eerie, atmospheric sound of Tubular Bells is forever associated with the unsettling power of The Exorcist.
This track is the perfect background for when things are about to get properly spooky.
“Psycho Killer” – Talking Heads (1977)
With its edgy lyrics and offbeat sound, Psycho Killer brings a touch of unpredictability and fear to your playlist.
It’s perfect for adding a psychological thriller vibe to the night.
“Suspiria” by Goblin (1977)
The haunting and unsettling soundtrack to Dario Argento’s Suspiria is perfect for a true horror movie atmosphere.
Its eerie bells and whispers create an otherworldly, spine-tingling experience.
“Tales from the Crypt” by Danny Elfman (1989)
This iconic theme from HBO’s Tales from the Crypt brings a perfect blend of eerie yet fun vibes that’s ideal for any Halloween playlist.
“Tubular Bells II” – Mike Oldfield (1992)
A lesser-known but equally haunting continuation of the original Exorcist theme, this track brings a sense of foreboding and mystery to your spooky soundscape.
Modern Hits That Deserve a Spot on Your Playlist
Why stick to the old favourites when there are plenty of modern tracks that bring fresh, eerie energy to your Halloween playlist?
These contemporary hits are perfect for those looking to update their spooky soundtrack.
“Bury a Friend” – Billie Eilish (2019)
Billie Eilish’s haunting vocals and dark lyrics make Bury a Friend an ideal track for setting a chilling atmosphere. It’s unsettling in the best way possible.
“Demons” – Doja Cat (2023)
With its bold and dark sound, Demons adds a touch of modern horror to your playlist.
A perfect late-night track to keep the spooky energy high, especially at adult Halloween parties.
“Nightmare” – Halsey (2019)
Halsey’s “Nightmare” is a fierce, rebellious track that channels rage and intensity.
Its raw energy makes it a must for your high-energy Halloween playlist, offering a dark yet empowering vibe.
“Haunted” – Beyoncé (2013)
With its slow, atmospheric build-up, Haunted creates an eerie, almost ghostly feel.
It’s the perfect track for when you want to take the mood down a notch but keep the spooky vibes strong.
“Monster” – Kanye West (2010)
A modern rap classic with a Halloween edge, Monster brings dark lyrics and a killer beat.
Add some serious attitude to your Halloween party with this modern rap classic.
Final Tracks: The Perfect Halloween Playlist Closers
Now that you’ve set the scene and kept the party alive with spooky anthems, it’s time to end the night on the perfect note.
These final tracks are ideal for wrapping up your Halloween playlist with just the right amount of drama and edge.
“Highway to Hell” – AC/DC (1979)
One of the most iconic rock tracks ever, Highway to Hell brings a rebellious, devilish vibe to the end of your Halloween playlist.
It’s a crowd-pleaser with just the right amount of spooky energy.
“Don’t Fear the Reaper” – Blue Öyster Cult (1976)
With its haunting melody and melancholic vibe, this track is perfect for winding down after a night of Halloween thrills.
“Bad Moon Rising” – Creedence Clearwater Revival (1969)
Ominous yet upbeat, Bad Moon Rising is a great choice for the end of your playlist.
Its lyrics hint at impending doom, making it the perfect closing song as the night winds down.
“Zombie” – The Cranberries (1994)
With its haunting vocals and heavy guitar riffs, Zombie adds a powerful, emotional note to the end of your Halloween playlist.
“Devil Woman” – Cliff Richard (1976)
Catchy and just creepy enough, Devil Woman is a great way to end the night on a slightly sinister, yet fun note.
“Bad Moon Rising” – Creedence Clearwater Revival (1969)
Ominous yet upbeat, Bad Moon Rising is a great choice for the end of your playlist.
Its lyrics hint at impending doom, making it the perfect closing song as the night winds down.
Curate the Ultimate Spooky Soundtrack for a Memorable Halloween
There you have it: 40 of the best Halloween songs to create the ultimate spooky playlist.
Whether you’re hosting a full-blown party or just setting the atmosphere for trick-or-treaters, this playlist has something for everyone.
From pop culture classics to hidden gems, these tracks will ensure that your Halloween is one to remember.
Get ready to press play and let the spooky vibes take over. Happy Halloween!
