Best Halloween Songs: The Ultimate Playlist to Set the Spooky Mood

No Halloween celebration is complete without a spine-tingling playlist to accompany the festivities. Whether you’re hosting a haunted house, throwing a Halloween party, or simply looking to embrace the spooky spirit of the season, music plays a key role in setting the perfect mood. From eerie instrumentals to pop hits with haunting undertones, Halloween songs come in all styles and genres. In this article, we’ve rounded up 45 of the best Halloween songs that will add just the right amount of chills and thrills to your spooky celebration.

1. Thriller – Michael Jackson

This iconic 1982 track is the ultimate Halloween classic. With its chilling lyrics, haunting beats, and an unforgettable music video featuring dancing zombies, “Thriller” is a must-have on every Halloween playlist.

2. Monster Mash – Bobby “Boris” Pickett

An old-time favorite that has been delighting Halloween enthusiasts since 1962, “Monster Mash” is a fun, playful song complete with eerie sound effects. It tells the tale of a party attended by various monsters and is perfect for kids and adults alike.

3. Somebody’s Watching Me – Rockwell

Rockwell’s 1983 hit embodies the feeling of paranoia and fear, with lyrics that capture the sensation of being watched. The eerie synths and catchy chorus make this song a Halloween staple.

4. Ghostbusters – Ray Parker Jr.

“Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters!” This iconic 1984 theme song from the hit movie is playful yet spooky, perfect for lifting the Halloween spirit with a dose of nostalgia and fun.

5. Disturbia – Rihanna

Rihanna’s edgy and dark 2008 track dives into themes of anxiety and fear. The haunting production and lyrics create an atmosphere perfect for a Halloween party with a modern twist.

6. Time Warp – The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Straight from the cult classic movie, this catchy dance number is a Halloween favorite. “Time Warp” adds a lively, theatrical vibe that’s sure to get everyone on their feet.

7. This Is Halloween – The Nightmare Before Christmas

Marilyn Manson’s cover of this classic song from The Nightmare Before Christmas is chaotic, dramatic, and ideal for embracing the Halloween spirit with a bit of Tim Burton’s eerie touch.

8. Spooky, Scary Skeletons – Andrew Gold

A goofy yet haunting tune, “Spooky, Scary Skeletons” has grown in popularity over the years, thanks in part to its catchy melody and fun lyrics. It’s an excellent addition to any Halloween playlist.

9. (Don’t Fear) The Reaper – Blue Öyster Cult

This haunting rock classic captures the spirit of Halloween with its dark, atmospheric sound. The iconic guitar riff and contemplative lyrics make it a great background track for a spooky evening.

10. Highway to Hell – AC/DC

AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell” is the perfect rock anthem for those looking to add some edge to their Halloween festivities. Its heavy guitar riffs and dark lyrics make it a thrilling choice for any Halloween night.

11. Bury a Friend – Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish’s eerie vocals and the song’s haunting production create an unsettling yet captivating vibe. “Bury a Friend” explores dark themes, making it a modern addition to the Halloween music scene.

12. Season of the Witch – Lana Del Rey

Lana Del Rey’s enchanting cover of Donovan’s psychedelic track adds a haunting touch to the Halloween playlist. The spooky reverb and vintage vibe make it spellbinding for any spooky gathering.

13. Superstition – Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder’s funky classic dives into the world of superstitions, perfect for Halloween when beliefs in the supernatural run high. The song’s upbeat tempo and groove bring a fun element to the playlist.

14. Howlin’ for You – The Black Keys

With its stomping bluesy beat and haunting lyrics, “Howlin’ for You” captures a sense of the wild. The song’s howling motif makes it an ideal addition to any Halloween playlist.

15. She Wolf – Shakira

This pop hit adds a touch of sexy intrigue to Halloween. Shakira’s celebration of female strength and her haunting vocals make “She Wolf” a fun and lively track for Halloween night.

16. Wolves – Selena Gomez & Marshmello

Although it has elements of a love song, “Wolves” offers the perfect blend of haunting lyrics and catchy beats, giving it a spot on any Halloween playlist.

17. Zombie – The Cranberries

The Cranberries’ “Zombie” adds a haunting and thought-provoking tone. Its grungy vibe and powerful lyrics make it suitable for a darker Halloween theme.

18. The Monster – Eminem ft. Rihanna

This collaboration dives into the concept of inner demons and monsters in the mind, combining eerie beats with powerful vocals. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of hip-hop and spookiness.

19. Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival

An upbeat yet eerie tune, “Bad Moon Rising” captures the ominous feeling of a storm brewing. The lyrics hint at supernatural happenings, making it a perfect classic rock pick for Halloween.

20. The Purple People Eater – Sheb Wooley

This novelty song is a lighthearted yet quirky track, bringing a bit of silliness to the Halloween festivities. Its fun lyrics and catchy tune make it suitable for all ages.

And Many More…

21. Black Magic Woman – Santana
22. Evil Woman – Electric Light Orchestra
23. People Are Strange – The Doors
24. The Addams Family Theme – Vic Mizzy
25. Psycho Killer – Talking Heads
26. Hell’s Bells – AC/DC
27. Sympathy for the Devil – The Rolling Stones
28. Witchy Woman – Eagles
29. Pet Sematary – Ramones
30. The Devil Went Down to Georgia – The Charlie Daniels Band
31. Feed My Frankenstein – Alice Cooper
32. I Put a Spell on You – Screamin’ Jay Hawkins
33. Tubular Bells Theme – Mike Oldfield (The Exorcist)
34. Dragula – Rob Zombie
35. Heads Will Roll – Yeah Yeah Yeahs
36. Bad Guy – Billie Eilish
37. Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps) – David Bowie
38. Cry Little Sister – Gerard McMahon (The Lost Boys)
39. A Nightmare on My Street – DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
40. Scream – Michael & Janet Jackson
41. Runnin’ With the Devil – Van Halen
42. Sweet but Psycho – Ava Max
43. Fresh Blood – Eels
44. The Stranger Things Theme – Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein
45. Vampire – Olivia Rodrigo

Set the Perfect Spooky Vibe

From timeless classics to modern-day hits, this mix of 45 Halloween songs offers the perfect balance of eerie vibes, fun beats, and nostalgic tunes. Whether you’re looking for songs to set the background for a haunted house or to get everyone dancing at a Halloween party, this playlist has something for every Halloween occasion.

Happy Haunting and Happy Listening!