The 31 Best Halloween Songs, Ranked

Halloween is a time for candy, costumes, and, of course, music that sets the perfect eerie atmosphere. Whether you’re throwing a party, going trick-or-treating, or just getting into the spirit of the season, the right soundtrack can elevate the experience.

Here’s a genre-spanning list  of the 31 greatest Halloween songs that capture the essence of this haunting holiday – featuring legends like Michael Jackson, AC/DC, and Rihanna, plus and one-hit wonder artists like Bobby “Boris” Pickett. Plus, listen to Halloween countdowns, curated mixes, spooky podcasts, and more on the SiriusXM app.

Best Halloween Songs, Ranked

31. “Hocus Pocus” by Focus

This energetic instrumental featuring yodeling is a fun, high-energy addition to any Halloween gathering. Its unique sound is sure to get everyone moving!

30. “In the Night” by The Weeknd

With its moody production and haunting lyrics, this track captures the vibe of Halloween nights, perfect for a late-night playlist.

29. “Spirits” by The Strumbellas

This indie folk hit has a catchy, upbeat vibe while exploring darker themes, making it a unique choice for a Halloween atmosphere.

28. “Black Cat” by Janet Jackson

With its sultry beats and themes of superstition, “Black Cat” is a great addition to your Halloween playlist, merging pop and rock effortlessly.

27. “Creep” by Radiohead

This song’s themes of isolation and discomfort resonate well with Halloween’s spooky undertones, making it a modern classic for the holiday.

26. “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival

With its ominous lyrics and catchy melody, this classic rock song captures the foreboding feeling of a Halloween night.

25. “Hells Bells” by AC/DC

Another classic from AC/DC, “Hells Bells” features haunting lyrics and a powerful sound that adds to the intensity of Halloween night.

24. “Lullaby” by The Cure

With its dark, soothing tones and themes of love and longing, this song creates an eerie atmosphere perfect for a spooky night.

23. “Zombie” by The Cranberries

This haunting rock ballad resonates with themes of loss and struggle. Its powerful vocals and atmospheric sound make it a fitting choice for Halloween.

22. “Boo! It’s Halloween” by Greg & Steve

A fun children’s song that embraces the spirit of Halloween with playful lyrics and a catchy melody, making it a hit at family gatherings.

21. “The Addams Family (2019)” by Migos

A newer addition to the Halloween music scene, this fun and funky track brings a fresh take on “The Addams Family” theme, perfect for today’s audience.

20. “Dark Horse” by Katy Perry (feat. Juicy J)

This modern hit combines mystical imagery with catchy pop beats, making it an excellent choice for a contemporary Halloween playlist.

19. “Ghost Town” by The Specials

With its haunting melodies and socially conscious lyrics, “Ghost Town” captures a sense of eerie desolation that fits the Halloween theme perfectly.

18. “Pet Sematary” by Ramones

Inspired by Stephen King’s novel, this punk rock track brings a sense of urgency and horror. Its driving beat makes it an energetic addition to your Halloween soundtrack.

17. “I Put a Spell on You” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins

This blues classic is a haunting love song that’s become a Halloween staple. With its dramatic delivery and eerie instrumentation, it captures the mood of the season perfectly.

16. “Freaks Come Out at Night” by Whodini

This hip-hop classic celebrates the nighttime and all its mysteries, making it a fitting addition to a Halloween playlist. Its catchy beat and memorable lyrics will get everyone grooving.

15. “Addams Family Theme” by Vic Mizzy

The iconic theme from “The Addams Family” is instantly recognizable and adds a playful spookiness to any Halloween gathering. Its catchy tune invites everyone to join in the fun.

14. “Evil Woman” by Electric Light Orchestra

With its smooth melodies and haunting lyrics, “Evil Woman” perfectly captures the essence of Halloween. The mix of rock and orchestral elements creates an atmospheric sound that resonates with the season.

13. “Werewolves of London” by Warren Zevon

This classic track features a catchy piano riff and humorous lyrics about a werewolf’s exploits. It’s an essential addition for anyone looking to add some levity to their Halloween playlist.

12. “She Wolf” by Shakira

With its seductive beats and themes of transformation, “She Wolf” fits seamlessly into a Halloween playlist. Shakira’s energetic performance adds to the song’s allure, making it a fun dance track for Halloween parties.

11. “Black Magic Woman” by Fleetwood Mac (or Santana)

This timeless song about enchantment and mystique adds a mystical quality to Halloween. Its haunting melody and lyrical themes make it a favorite for those who love the supernatural.

10. “This Is Halloween” from “The Nightmare Before Christmas”

From Tim Burton’s beloved film, this song encapsulates the essence of Halloween. Its theatrical nature and whimsical lyrics celebrate all things spooky, making it a standout choice for Halloween festivities.

9. “Bark at the Moon” by Ozzy Osbourne

Ozzy’s classic track about werewolves adds a touch of heavy metal to your Halloween playlist. With its eerie lyrics and chilling sound, it perfectly captures the darker side of the holiday.

8. “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC

For a rockier vibe, “Highway to Hell” is a perfect fit. Its powerful guitar riffs and rebellious spirit resonate with the thrilling aspects of Halloween.

7. “Spooky, Scary Skeletons” by Andrew Gold

This playful song has gained a resurgence in popularity thanks to its catchy melody and fun lyrics. Its whimsical take on skeletons makes it a family-friendly option that kids love, ensuring it remains a Halloween favorite.

6. “Disturbia” by Rihanna

With its haunting beats and themes of paranoia, “Disturbia” fits right into a Halloween playlist. Rihanna’s captivating vocals combined with the dark, atmospheric production make it a modern Halloween staple.

5. “Time Warp” from “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”

This song from the cult classic film The Rocky Horror Picture Show is synonymous with Halloween. The lively dance moves and fun lyrics invite everyone to get up and join in, making it a perfect party anthem.

4. “Monster Mash” by Bobby “Boris” Pickett

A Halloween classic since its release in 1962, “Monster Mash” is a novelty song that tells the story of a mad scientist’s creation coming to life. Its playful lyrics and catchy melody make it a must-have for any Halloween gathering.

3. “Somebody’s Watching Me” by Rockwell

This 1984 hit taps into the fear of being watched, making it an excellent choice for Halloween. Its catchy chorus and eerie vibe give it a spooky twist, and it’s often remembered for its iconic synth riff.

2. “Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker Jr.

A fun and catchy tune, “Ghostbusters” remains a beloved classic. Its upbeat melody and memorable chorus make it a favorite for both kids and adults, and it’s impossible not to sing along when you hear it.

1. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson

No Halloween playlist is complete without “Thriller.” This iconic song features a blend of pop, rock, and horror, and its legendary music video is a staple of the season. With a chilling spoken-word segment by actor Vincent Price, it perfectly embodies the spirit of Halloween.

Halloween on SiriusXM

It’s time to don your Halloween costume, gorge on candy, and, of course, SCREAM!

SiriusXM is once again keeping the spirit of Halloween alive with endless hours of music and entertainment for the whole family beginning with the return of the popular SCREAM Radio channel — launching October 17 and continuing through Halloween.