October 31 is just around the corner, so it’s time to officially celebrate the season with a Halloween playlist that will make your hair stand on end. Whether you prefer gothic love ballads, upbeat pop hits or macabre compositions that will make you rethink everything, we’ve got what you’re looking for!
With a sinister selection of songs, ordered from the least to the most terrifying, this list creates the ideal atmosphere for this holiday season. And if you want to add an (even more) spooky touch, pay attention because some of these songs can be heard live at the upcoming Candlelight Halloween concerts. So grab your broom and get ready for a cauldron full of musical surprises.
* The level of chills was measured according to the sensations when listening to each song.
This article was written by Anna-Maya Pawlowski, Carla Palenzuela, Eder Dade, Charlie Maudsley and Stephanye Martins.
50. The Crazy Addams, Victor Mizzy
The finger snapsand melody make the theme from The Addams Crazies an iconic song for Halloween. It’s as sassy as it is spooky, and perfectly captures the ghoulish spirit of TV’s most peculiar family.
49. Ghostbusters, Ray Parker Jr.
When you need a fun Halloween song to get you in the mood, who do you call? Ghostbusters, of course! The movie’s theme song is an upbeat anthem with a catchy chorus, making it a surefire hit at any Halloween party.
48. Monster Mash, Bobby Boris Pickett
What would a Halloween party be without raising your hands and doing the “Monster Mash”? The famous dance is as iconic as the song, and the Dracula-inspired vocals along with the ’60s twist add an air of fun to it all.
47. This Is Halloween (Nightmare Before Christmas), The Citizens of Halloween
Spirits and ghosts merge with the Halloween season thanks to Nightmare Before Christmas, but it’s the song “This Is Halloween” that brings the spookiest fun to the film. Although the film was directed by Tim Burton, Danny Elfman was the musical genius behind the melody and chants that accompany this great theme.
46. Spooky, Scary Skeletons, Andrew Gold
Although it was released in 1996, Spooky, Scary Skeletons by Andrew Gold gained a new wave of popularity when it went viral in 2013. It is now considered the internet’s favorite Halloween song, thanks to its humorous lyrics and xylophone sounds, which represent the rattling of bones.
45. Time Warp (Rocky Horror Picture Show), Little Nell
October is the time of year when this iconic, upbeat dance is a must. The famous Rocky Horror Picture Showsong has become a cult classic over the past few decades, so it’s no wonder it’s now a must-have on any Halloween playlist (this one too).
44. Spooky, Classics IV
Spooky is a smooth, enveloping jazz song that mixes saxophone sounds with haunting lyrics to create a suspenseful atmosphere. Despite its upbeat rhythm and somewhat romantic lyrics, it’s the mysterious whistling in the background that will make your hair stand on end.
43. Beetlejuice, Danny Elfman
Another Halloween hit composed by Danny Elfman, the Beetlejuicetheme is a weird and wonderful song that encapsulates all the nostalgia and fun of the original 1988 film. Its upbeat and lively sound perfectly captures the light-hearted spirit of one of Tim Burton’s most famous films.
42. Stranger Things, Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein
80’s synthesizers take center stage when the Stranger Things theme plays. As soon as we hear the electronic music, we are transported directly to the fictional town of Hawkins, where we join the kids in their fantasy adventure as they battle all sorts of terrifying monsters.
41. Haunted, Beyoncé
Haunted relies on its gloomy production and enveloping atmosphere to create a dark yet seductive ambiance. Combined with Beyoncé’ s haunting vocals, the introspective lyrics alluding to ghosts, evil tongues and souls for sale make this track a modern Halloween hit.
40. Witchy Woman, Eagles
With a soaring guitar and powerful vocals, Witchy Woman is a bonus for any Halloween playlist, even if it does bring a touch of rock and roll. The lyrics won’t let you down if you’re looking for a little chill, though, with lines like “dancing shadows in the firelight” and “you can rock in the night until your skin turns red”.
39. Zombie, The Cranberries
The immediacy of “In your head, in your head” and the aggressive “Zombie, zombie, zombie-ie-ie-ie” leaves listeners a bit disturbed. Although inspired by an anti-war sentiment, The Cranberries’ rock hit has enough violence and ghoulish vocals to make your hair stand on end.
38. Hungry Like the Wolf, Duran Duran
Leave it to Duran Duran to introduce you to the wolf with a playful, synth-pop beat. Not everything has to be sinister and scary. Instead, hit play on Hungry Like the Wolf and enjoy this eighties track that will make you feel like howling.
37. They Only Come Out at Night, The Long Losts
If you’re looking for something closer to deathrock and punk, try They Only Come Out at Night. The church bells, thundering drums and haunting narrative make it the perfect song for this season. And although it has a gothic feel to it, the melody wouldn’t be out of place in a teen drama.
36. We Only Come Out at Night, Smashing Pumpkins
What sounds like pumpkins being smashed behind grunge vocals and guitars is actually a melancholy hit for Halloween. Get into a psychedelic state of mind this Halloween, thanks to Smashing Pumpkins’ dark song.
You can also let yourself be spellbound by a Halloween-themed Candlelight concert.
35. Funeral March of a Marionette, Charles Gounod
If Alfred Hitchcock, the “Master of Suspense,” selected Charles Gounod’s famous piece as one of the eight compositions he would take to a desert island, then it clearly has somber qualities. This brief piece is simple but with a touch of danger.
34. In the Hall of the Mountain King, Edvard Grieg
This dramatic and intense piece is one of Grieg’s most popular compositions. For a sense of chaos and urgency, listen to In the Hall of the Mountain King. Used in numerous films, it often accompanies scenes full of suspense and mischief.
Mercedes’ Lullaby (Pan’s Labyrinth), Javier Navarrete
Weaving suspense, horror and fantasy into one piece, Javier Navarrete’s composition is a hair-raising lullaby. It is deeply evocative and was a perfect choice for Guillermo del Toro’s dark and complex film.
32. Danse Macabre, Camille Saint-Saëns
One of the must-have pieces for Halloween, Danza Macabra is haunting and, as expected, creates a macabre atmosphere. From the sound of bones rattling thanks to the xylophone to its more whimsical aspects, this composition is a timeless expression of the playful side of this holiday.
31. Thriller, Michael Jackson
This iconic Halloween anthem is beloved for its catchy pop melody, creaking doors and howling wolves. And if the horror-themed lyrics aren’t enough to make your skin crawl, just watch the music video for more suspense and excitement.
30. Somebody’s Watching Me, Rockwell
This 1984 classic perfectly captures the paranoia of feeling like you’re always being watched. With Michael Jackson’s unmistakable vocals on the chorus, Somebody’s Watching Me explores that universal fear of being spied on, earning its place as an essential on any Halloween playlist.
29. Psycho Killer, Talking Heads
David Byrne’s vocals and the song’s lyrics immerse you in a dark and twisted mindset, making you feel inside the mind of someone truly disturbed. The track’s irregular beat and haunting narrative are perfect for those looking for a psychological thriller that will stay with you long after the music ends.
28. Creep, Radiohead
Radiohead’sCreep cuts deep, making you feel like you don’t fit in, just like its iconic lyrics say, “What the hell am I doing here?” That feeling of discomfort and out of place is what makes it an ideal backdrop for the spooky atmosphere of Halloween, exploring the shadows of the mind.
27. Ghost Town, The Specials
Ghost Town isn’t just a song, it ‘s a whole vibe. Imagine walking through a town that has fallen silent, with every corner inhabited by memories of what used to be. The haunting vocals and ghostly melody pull you into a world where the ghosts of the past are still present.
26. Werewolves of London, Warren Zevon
Werewolves of London is a howler you won’t want to miss. With its cheeky mix of humor and terror, this song takes you on a wild ride through the streets of London, where werewolves are on the prowl. That iconic piano melody and haunting howling chorus will have you instantly hooked.
25. Spanish Train, Chris De Burgh
Aboard a ghost train, God and the Devil face off in a supernatural card game in Spanish Train. Dark themes and dramatic storytelling give this song an irresistible air of mystery, perfect for those looking for a story full of enchantment.
24. Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps), David Bowie
Bowie’s ability to combine the unsettling with the extraordinary shines through in this song: its chaotic energy and cryptic lyrics explore fear and anxiety with a disturbing twist. A Halloween must-have that captures the thrill of the unknown.
23. Season of the Witch, Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey’s version of Season of the Witch is not just a cover, it’s quite the treat. Her haunting voice weaves a spell that pulls you into a mystical world, where everything seems a little more magical. If you’re looking for the perfect soundtrack to cast your own Halloween spell, this song is for you.
22. Burn the Witch, Queens of the Stone Age
Queens of the Stone Age take you straight to the fire with Burn the Witch. Its raw chords and dark, powerful energy create a rebellious atmosphere, perfect for unleashing Halloween mayhem. Ready to crank up the volume and watch the flames rise?
21. Red Right Hand, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds
There’s something about Red Right Hand that sends chills down your spine from the first note. The mix of tension, like a lurking shadow right behind you, completely grabs you.
Get into the holiday spirit with these terrifying Candlelight Halloween concerts.
20. Don’t Fear the Reaper, Blue Öyster Cult
This 1976 Halloween classic suggests that death is not something to fear, but an inevitable part of life. It’s haunting and hypnotic, but manages to create a strangely comforting tone by contrasting the typically grim perception of death with melodic chords that soothe anyone.
19.Sheep, Pink Floyd
Sometimes, the scariest thing in the world is hopelessness. And Pink Floyd portrays well the people who live like sheep, manipulated by oppressive forces. The synthesizers, Roger Waters’ menacing vocals and repetitive bass strumming amplify the tension, making the song sound chaotic and chilling.
18. Bad Moon Rising, Creedence Clearwater Revival
Don’t be fooled by the song’s upbeat and catchy melodies, because the lyrics are downright apocalyptic. Bad Moon Rising warns of impending disaster: hurricanes, rage and destruction.
17. Devil’s Dance, Metallica
You can’t miss Metallica in a Halloween playlist. But in particular, Devil’s Dance is loaded with relentless vibes. The song starts with a dark, seductive tone, created by its punchy guitar chords and a creeping bass that lets you know right away that you’re in for a spooky time.
16. Dragula, Rob Zombie
The industrial rock sound, combined withRob Zombie’s raspy vocals and disturbing lyrics, makes you feel like it’s a “whack in the back of my Dragula”, a wild ride through a nightmarish landscape. Dragula embodies the sinister spirit of Halloween, making it an essential song for the season’s celebrations.
15. Dead Souls, Nine Inch Nails
Originally written by Joy Division, Nine Inch Nails’ version with Reznor’s rendition gave the song a raw and emotional character, capturing themes of despair and alienation. The song was also featured in the 1994 action-fantasy film, The Raven, whose dark aesthetic and cult following fit perfectly with the tone of the song.
14. Der Erlkönig, Franz Schubert
It’s not just heavy metal or hard rock songs that tell hair-raising stories. Schubert’s Der Erlkönig tells the story of a father riding through the night with his sick son, who is lured by the evil King of the Elves. But it’s the urgent piano notes that mimic the horse’s gallop that add a layer of tension that keeps you on edge.
13. String Quartet No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 110: II. Allegro Molto, Dmitri Shostakovich
This haunting composition is essential in your Halloween playlist, thanks to its frenetic dissonant passages that evoke the associated fear characteristic of this holiday. The Russian composer himself described it as “a poem of suffering” (wow!). And considering that it was written just after World War II, we can understand why….
12. Gallowdance, Lebanon Hanover
If existential angst that continues to resonate even after the music dies downis your thing, this song is for you. Gallowdance is a darkwave and post-punk gemthat deserves a place on your playlist, thanks to its hypnotic vocals and minimalist instrumentation. Lyrically, the song explores themes of death and decay, immersing you in a world of shadows and whispers.
11. I Put a Spell on You, Screamin’ Jay Hawkins
We’re approaching the top 10 and we couldn’t help but include I Put a Spell on You on the list. It’s a Halloween classic for a reason: its dramatic style, Hawkins’ powerful vocals and haunting atmosphere of voodoo and witchcraft always manage to get you right into the perfect Halloween mood.
10. A Night on Bald Mountain, Modest Mussorgsky
With its dark and intense tones, A Night on Bald Mountain evokes the image of a gathering of witches on a haunted mountain.
9. Toccata and Fugue in D Minor, Johann Sebastian Bach
With its powerful and menacing organ chords, this Bach masterpiece is synonymous with classical horror, creating a suspenseful atmosphere that makes the listener feel the presence of something sinister lurking nearby.
8. Dream of a Witches’ Sabbath, Hector Berlioz
Part of his Symphonie Fantastique, Berlioz’s piece blends dream and nightmare with distorted and dissonant melodies, portraying a coven of witches that is both surreal and terrifying.
7. Prelude to Psycho, Bernard Herrmann
The high-pitched, frenetic strings of the Psycho prelude are unmistakable, instantly creating a sense of dread and tension that mirrors the suspense of Hitchcock’ s classic .
6. Nightmare on Elm Street, Charles Bernstein
The Nightmare on Elm Street theme combines soft, eerie melodies with sinister tones, capturing the terror of nightmares and the menacing presence of Freddy Krueger.
These haunting melodies, and many more, sound even better by candlelight – get your tickets here!
5. The Phantom of the Opera, Andrew Llyod Webber
Powerful and menacing, this song from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical is perfect for Halloween, thanks to its haunting music and gothic themes. From the powerful organ notesto the lyrical vocals, The Phantom of the Opera is mysterious, dark and able to create an atmosphere of suspense and fear.
4. Halloween, John Carpenter
Simple, yet incredibly effective, the Halloween theme is one of the most recognizable horror tracks, with its hypnotic, repetitive beat intensifying the feeling of being stalked.
3. Hello Zepp (Saw), Charlie Clouser
The Saw theme starts off calmly but builds in intensity, creating a sense of inevitable dread as it reveals the film’s macabre riddles.
2. Ave Satani (The Prophecy), Jerry Goldsmith
With its dark chorus and Latin chanting, Ave Satani evokes satanic rituals and impending evil, serving as a chilling warning of the supernatural terror in The Omen.
1. Tubular Bells (The Exorcist), Mike Oldfield
Drum roll, please… Tubular Bells takes the crown as the scariest Halloween song. This ethereal, repetitive piece became a symbol of possession and fear with its use in The Exorcist, slowly building an atmosphere of disturbingpsychological horror.