October 31 is creeping up so we’re officially celebrating the season of the witch with a Halloween playlist that will send shivers down your spine. Whether you like gothic love ballads, upbeat pop hits or gory compositions that will make you question your life choices, we’ve got you covered.
Featuring a chilling collection of tracks ranked from least to scariest, this listicle is guaranteed to get the party started. And for some additional spooky fun, keep an ear out for certain boo-tiful songs and scores that will be performed at the upcoming Halloween Candlelight concerts. So grab your broomsticks and get ready for a cauldron full of musical treats!
*Spook factor was decided by counting how many times we felt a shiver run down our spines as we listened to each unsettling song.
This article was written by Carla Palenzuela, Anna-Maya Pawlowski, Eder Dade, Charlie Maudsley, and Stephanye Martins.
50. “The Addams Family Theme” — Victor Mizzy
Finger snaps and a harpsichord melody make the theme from The Addams Family a super iconic Halloween song. It’s as cheeky as it is spooky, and perfectly captures the macabre spirit of the quirkiest family on our TV screen.
49. “Ghostbusters” Theme — Ray Parker Jr.
When you need a fun Halloween tune to help get you in the spooky spirit, who you gonna call? Ghostbusters, of course! The movie’s theme is an upbeat anthem, and the playful chorus is simply infectious, making it a beloved dancefloor filler for any Halloween get-together.
48. “Monster Mash” — Bobby Boris Pickett
What’s a Halloween party without throwing your hands up in the air and doing the Monster Mash? The playful dance is as famous as the song, and the Dracula-inspired vocals alongside the 60s swing element add to the silliness of it all.
47. “This Is Halloween” (The Nightmare Before Christmas) — The Citizens of Halloween
Ghostly spirits become one with the festive season thanks to The Nightmare Before Christmas, but it’s “This Is Halloween” that brings the super spooky fun to the film. While the film was directed by Tim Burton, it’s Danny Elfman who was the musical mastermind behind the song’s enchanting melody and whimsical chants.
46. “Spooky, Scary Skeletons”— Andrew Gold
Although it was released in 1996, Andrew Gold’s “Spooky, Scary Skeletons” gained a new wave in popularity after it went viral back in 2013. It’s now often referred to as the internet’s top Halloween tune, thanks also to its humorous lyrics and xylophone sounds that are supposed to represent the rattling of bones.
45. “Time Warp” (Rocky Horror Picture Show) — Little Nell
When October comes around, it’s officially that time of year when doing time warp is a must at any Halloween bash. The famous song from Rocky Horror Picture Show is a cheerful dance track that’s become a complete cult classic over the past few decades, so it’s no surprise that it’s now a staple on every Halloween party playlist.
44. “Spooky” — Classics IV
“Spooky” is a silky smooth jazz song that mixes saxophone sounds with creepy lyrics to create an element of suspense in the air. Despite the somewhat romantic lyrics and groovy beat, it’s the eerie whistling in the background that’s enough to send a shiver down your spine.
43. “Beetlejuice Theme” — Danny Elfman
Another Halloween hit composed by Danny Elfman, the theme from Beetlejuice is a weird and wonderful song that encapsulates all the nostalgia and fun from the original 1988 movie. Its lively and upbeat sound perfectly captures the lighthearted nature of one of Tim Burton’s most famous films.
42. “Stranger Things” Theme — Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein
80s synths take the spotlight when the Stranger Things theme tune blares. As soon as we hear the electronic music, we’re transported straight to the fictional town of Hawkins to join the kids on their fantastical adventure as they fight against all sorts of terrifying monsters.
41. “Haunted” — Beyoncé
“Haunted” leans on its moody production and atmospheric vibe to create a dark yet alluring atmosphere. Combined with Beyoncé’s haunting vocals, the introspective lyrics that allude to ghosts, wicked tongues, and souls for sale make this slightly slower jam a modern Halloween hit.
40. “Witchy Woman” — Eagles
With guitar music that builds and a strong voice, “Witchy Woman” is a mellow addition to any Halloween playlist but it does add a bit of rock and roll to it. The lyrics won’t fail you though for a sense of unease, from “dancing shadows and firelight” to “she can rock you in the nighttime ’til 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” leaves listeners a little haunted. It was inspired by anti-war sentiment but The Cranberries’ chart-topping rock hit has enough violence and chilling vocals to raise the hairs on your arm.
38. “Hungry Like the Wolf” — Duran Duran
Leave it to Duran Duran to paint the wolf in a playful, synth-pop light. Not everything needs to be all sinister notes and terrifying. Instead, press play on “Hungry Like the Wolf” for a New Wave track that’ll make you feel like howling.
37. “They Only Come Out at Night” — The Long Losts
For something a little more deathrock and punk, turn to “They Only Come Out At Night”. The church bells, banging drums, and creepy tale make for the perfect spooky season song. And although it does have a gothic side, the melody somehow wouldn’t be out of place in a teen drama.
36. “We Only Come Out at Night” — Smashing Pumpkins
What sounds like the guts of pumpkins being smashed behind grungy vocals and guitar music is really a moody Halloween banger. Enter a psychedelic headspace this All Hallows’ Eve brought to you by Smashing Pumpkins’ gloomy song.
You could also sink your fangs into a Halloween-themed Candlelight concert.
35. “Funeral March of a Marionette” — Charles Gounod
If even Alfred Hitchcock, “Master of Suspense”, selected Charles Gounod’s famous piece as one of the eight compositions he would want to have with him on a desert island, then it certainly has some baleful qualities. The short piece is simple but with a touch of peril.
34. “In the Hall of the Mountain King” — Edvard Grieg
One of Grieg’s most celebrated compositions, the piece is dramatic and escalates in intensity. For a sense of chaos and urgency, listen to “In the Hall of the Mountain King”. Used in numerous films, it usually suits scenes full of suspense and mischief.
33. “Nana de Mercedes” (Pan’s Labyrinth) — Javier Navarrete
Weaving suspense, horror, and fantasy into one haunting piece, Javier Navarrete’s composition is a haunting lullaby. It’s deeply evocative and was a fitting choice for Guillermo del Toro’s dark and complex film.
32. “Danse Macabre” — Camille Saint-Saëns
One of the quintessential pieces of Halloween music, “Danse Macabre” is eerie and, naturally, creates a macabre atmosphere. From the sound of rattling bones brought to life by a xylophone to its whimsical aspects, the composition is a timeless expression of the holiday’s playful aspects.
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 give you chills, just watch the music video for some more suspense and excitement.
30. “Somebody’s Watching Me” — Rockwell
This 1984 classic nails the creeping paranoia of always feeling like someone’s watching you. With Michael Jackson’s unmistakable vocals on the chorus, “Somebody’s Watching Me” taps into that universal fear of being spied on, earning its spot as a Halloween playlist essential.
29. “Psycho Killer” — Talking Heads
David Byrne’s eerie vocals and the song’s unsettling lyrics pull you into a dark, twisted mindset, making it feel like you’re inside the mind of someone truly disturbed. The track’s jagged rhythm and haunting narrative are perfect for anyone looking for a psychological thrill that lingers long after the music stops.
28. “Creep” — Radiohead
Radiohead’s “Creep” cuts deep, making you feel like you don’t belong—just like its iconic lyrics say, “What the hell am I doing here?” That uneasy, out-of-place vibe is exactly what makes it an ideal backdrop for the eerie atmosphere of Halloween, tapping into 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 city that’s fallen silent, every corner haunted by memories of what used to be. The eerie vocals and haunting melody will pull you into a world where the ghosts of the past still linger.
26. “Werewolves of London” — Warren Zevon
“Werewolves of London” is a howl you won’t want to miss. With its cheeky blend of humor and horror, this track takes you on a wild ride through London’s streets, where werewolves are on the prowl. That iconic piano riff and the unforgettable howling chorus will have you hooked.
25. “Spanish Train” — Chris De Burgh
Aboard a ghostly train, God and the Devil face off in a supernatural card game in “Spanish Train”. Dark themes and dramatic storytelling give this track an irresistible air of mystery, perfect for those craving a haunting narrative.
24. “Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps)” — David Bowie
Bowie’s genius for merging the eerie with the extraordinary shines in this track—its chaotic energy and cryptic lyrics tap into fear and anxiety with an unsettling edge. A Halloween essential, capturing the thrill of the unknown.
23. “Season of the Witch” — Lana Del Rey
Lana Del Rey’s version of “Season of the Witch” isn’t just a cover—it’s an invitation. Her haunting vocals weave a spell that pulls you into a mystical world where everything feels just a bit more magical. If you’re looking for the perfect soundtrack to cast your own Halloween enchantment, this one’s for you.
22. “Burn the Witch” — Queens of the Stone Age
Queens of the Stone Age take you straight into the fire with “Burn the Witch”. Its gritty riffs and dark, driving energy create a rebellious atmosphere that’s perfect for stirring up some Halloween chaos. Ready to turn up the volume and let the flames rise?
21. “Red Right Hand” — Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds
There’s something about “Red Right Hand” that gives you chills from the very first note. The blend of tension, like a shadow lurking just behind you, pulls you in completely.
Get in the spooky spirit—take a break from this ranking and explore Candlelight’s hauntingly beautiful 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 eerie and hypnotic, yet it creates an oddly comforting tone by contrasting the typically grim perception of death with calming melodic riffs.
19. “Sheep” — Pink Floyd
Sometimes the scariest thing in the world is hopelessness. And Pink Floyd does a good job of portraying people as mindless followers (sheep) controlled by oppressive forces. The eerie synthesizers, Roger Waters’ menacing vocals, and the repetitive bass strum all amplify the tension, making the song sound scary and chaotic.
18. “Bad Moon Rising” — Creedence Clearwater Revival
Don’t be misled by the song’s upbeat and catchy melodies because the lyrics are oh-so apocalyptic! “Bad Moon Rising” warns of an impending disaster: hurricanes, rage, and ruin.
17. “Devil’s Dance” — Metallica
You can’t have a Halloween playlist without including Metallica. But “Devil’s Dance” in particular is Load-ed with relentless vibes. The song starts with a dark and seductive color created by its grinding guitar riffs and crawling bassline and you immediately know, you’re in for a spooky time.
16. “Dragula” — Rob Zombie
The song’s industrial rock sound, combined with Rob Zombie’s growling voice and disturbing lyrics feels like a “slam in the back of my Dragula”, a wild ride through a nightmarish landscape. “Dragula” embodies the sinister spirit of Halloween, making it an essential track for the season’s creepy celebrations.
15. “Dead Souls” — Nine Inch Nails
Originally written by Joy Division, Nine Inch Nails’ cover with Reznor’s haunting delivery gave the song a raw and emotional character, capturing themes of despair and alienation. The song was also included in the 1994 action/fantasy film The Crow, whose dark aesthetic and cult following perfectly aligned with the track’s eerie tone.
14. “Der Erlkönig” — Franz Schubert
It’s not just heavy metal or hard rock songs that feature spine-tingling narratives. Schubert’s “Der Erlkönig” tells the chilling tale of a father riding through the night with his ailing child, who is lured by the evil Elf King. But it’s the urgent piano notes that mimic the galloping horse that add a layer of nail-biting tension.
13. “String Quartet No. 8 in C Minor, Op. 110: II. Allegro Molto” — Dmitri Shostakovich
This haunting composition is an essential addition to the Halloween playlist thanks to its frantic, dissonant passages and sudden shifts in dynamics, creating an ominous mood that resonates with the fear associated with Halloween. The Russian composer himself described it as “a poem of suffering”—yikes! And given that it was written right after World War II, I think we can understand why…
12. “Gallowdance” — Lebanon Hanover
If you’re inclined to a little existential dread that lingers long after the music fades, this song is for you.
“Gallowdance” is a darkwave / post-punk gem that deserves a spot on your spooky season playlist due to its mesmerizing vocals and minimalistic instrumentation. Lyrically, the song explores themes of death and decay, immersing you in a world of shadows and whispers. Are you ready to “dance with me the gallowdance”?
11. “I Put a Spell on You” — Screamin’ Jay Hawkins
We’re steadily approaching the top ten and we couldn’t help but include “I Put a Spell on You” in the list. It is a Halloween classic for a reason. Its dramatic style, Hawkins’ powerful vocals, and the eerie atmosphere of voodoo and witchcraft never fail to get you in the Halloween spirit.
10. “A Night on Bald Mountain” — Modest Mussorgsky
With its dark and intense tones, A Night on Bald Mountain evokes the image of a witches’ gathering on a haunted mountain, making it the perfect soundtrack to dive into the eerie Halloween atmosphere.
9. “Toccata and Fugue in D Minor” — Johann Sebastian Bach
With its powerful and menacing organ chords, this Bach masterpiece is synonymous with classic horror, creating a suspenseful atmosphere that makes the listener feel the weight of something sinister lurking nearby.
8. “Dream of a Witches’ Sabbath” — Hector Berlioz
Part of his Symphonie Fantastique, Berlioz’s piece mixes dream and nightmare with distorted and dissonant melodies, portraying a witches’ sabbath that is both surreal and terrifying.
7. “Prelude from Psycho” — Bernard Herrmann
The sharp and frantic strings of Psycho’s prelude are unmistakable, instantly creating a sense of dread and tension that echoes the suspense of Hitchcock’s classic.
6. “A Nightmare on Elm Street” Theme — Charles Bernstein
A Nightmare on Elm Street theme blends soft, mysterious melodies with sinister undertones, capturing the terror of nightmares and the menacing presence of Freddy Krueger.
5. “The Phantom of the Opera” — Andrew Llyod Webber
Raw and menacing, this song from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic stage musical is fitting for Halloween thanks to its haunting music and the Gothic themes it embodies. From the dramatic pipe organ to the operatic vocals, “Phantom of the Opera” is mysterious and dark, and creates an atmosphere of suspense and fear.
4. “Halloween” Theme, Main Title — John Carpenter
Simple yet incredibly effective, the Halloween theme is one of the most recognizable horror tracks, with its hypnotic and repetitive rhythm heightening the feeling of being hunted.
3. “Hello Zepp” (Saw) — Charlie Clouser
The Saw theme starts calmly but gradually builds in intensity, creating a sense of inevitable dread as it reveals the macabre puzzles of the film.
2. “Ave Satani” (The Omen) — Jerry Goldsmith
With its dark choir and Latin chant, Ave Satani evokes satanic rituals and impending evil, serving as a chilling warning of the supernatural terror in The Omen. While it does give plenty of musical reasons to be alarmed, number 1 induces more fear thanks to its association with one of the most iconic films in the horror genre.
1. “Tubular Bells” (The Exorcist) — Mike Oldfield
And drum roll, please… “Tubular Bells” receives the rather ominous crown for being the scariest Halloween song. This ethereal and repetitive piece became a symbol of possession and fear with its use in The Exorcist, slowly building into a disturbing psychological horror.