Ghoulish Grooves!

Halloween season is finally here! Time to finally assemble that ingenious costume you’ve planned all year, stock up on those candy treats, and create that petrifying playlist to get all the creepy creatures showing off their fierce footwork at your upcoming Halloween party. (Is it obvious I am fond of alliteration much?)

If that seems daunting, have no fear! I’ve already taken care of one step for you by creating a playlist you might find fitting for your bone-chilling bash, while making your party prep a little less scary. It includes a variety of jams, so it’s appealing to even the most monstrous critics. Below is the list of songs, listed in no particular order:

1. Ghostbusters - Ray Parker Jr.

Nothing like a nostalgic ’80s hit to get the party going! (Can we agree the best Halloween songs were made in the '80s?). The theme song from the blockbuster movie Ghostbusters (1984), its catchy refrain will have all your guests singing loudly in unison. However, the best part of this song is when Ray Parker Jr. states, “I ain’t afraid of no ghost.” Sure you’re not, Ray.

2. Stranger Things - Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein

Although it is an instrumental piece, this theme song from the Netflix hit show of the same name has enough long minor notes and sounds simulating a heartbeat to make anyone’s skin crawl. If the Twilight Zone was created in the ’80s, this is what the theme would sound like, and it makes for a great time to encourage your guests to consume some of the blood punch while engaging in some ice breakers. Make sure your party table is ready, and beware of the hour-long version!

3. Bad Romance - Lady Gaga

While it is technically a love song, its Goth-inspired sounds and gloomy lyrics describing an ill-fated relationship makes it a great fit for any monster bash. Plus, Lady Gaga is known for her love of costumes - which she often designs herself for her performances - so it is more than likely the Mother Monster herself would approve.

4. Heads Will Roll - Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Who knew such a gruesome-themed song could be such a bop? This song will get more than your head rolling, so make sure you and your friends make some space on the dance floor when it plays!

5. Cannibal - Kesha

Appearing to be another take on the maneater trope, Kesha makes it excruciatingly clear she is not the one to fall for on Halloween night - or on any night for that matter. If you identify as a man while this song comes on, don’t dance, RUN! You’ve been warned.

6. A Nightmare on My Street - DJ Jazzy Jeff and Fresh Prince

Inspired by the horror film, “A Nightmare on Elm Street” - yet not affiliated with the Freddie Kruger enterprise, as mentioned at the beginning of the music video - DJ Jazzy Jeff cleverly sampled the movie’s score, while the Fresh Prince “narr-aps” his comical yet frightening encounter with the terrifying Freddie Kruger. Together, they made cult classic music magic that is a must-have in every Halloween playlist. Not to mention the video itself is pure hilarity!

7. Somebody's Watching Me - Rockwell

This was Rockwell’s only hit, yet it’s one hardly anyone forgets, and is often referenced when the topic paranoia comes up in conversation. I believe most would agree what especially made this song a Halloween hit were the background vocals in the chorus, laid down by the Thriller King himself, Michael Jackson.

8. Dracula's Wedding - Andre 3000 (feat. Kelis)

What happens when Dracula falls in love with one of his victims? He marries her for eternity, of course! This song flips “til death do us part” on its skull, and Andre 3000’s take on Count Dracula’s love life is not only brilliant, but it is also a groove worth moving to.

9. Living Dead Girl - Rob Zombie

I guess it is no surprise an artist with the word “Zombie” in their name would also have a song about a zombie. However, the song is actually a rock head banger, and makes the possibility of being biten by a zombie a little more - shall I say - appetizing?

10. Waking the Witch - Kate Bush

This song will take you on a trip - more like an acid trip. (Full disclosure: I have never tried LSD or psilocybin, but if I had, I imagine it would sound like this.)

It begins with a long, deceptively calming intro. Yet, over a minute in, it proceeds to become a cacophony one could only imagine being the soundtrack of a twisted nightmare. Let’s be honest; we wouldn’t expect anything less from the incomparable Kate Bush, inspiring every queen to awaken their inner witch.

11. Animals - Maroon 5

Although I imagine many would not mind being bitten and clawed by Maroon 5’s handsome frontman, Adam Levine, I also imagine it would not be as fun if he morphed into a werewolf first. Even so, the song has a catchy melody and will encourage all the creepy creatures at your bash to let out their claws in pursuit of their prey. I mean, it is cuffing season, isn’t it? Let the hunting commence!

12. Thriller - Michael Jackson

No Halloween playlist would be complete without the thrilling classic from the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Its incredible composition, spooky narration, and memorable choreography to match makes this song a frightful masterpiece. Even aliens visiting Planet Earth would agree you are out of this world to not include it in your playlist. Get it together, Earthling!

Have any more ghoulish grooves you think should be on the list? Please mention in the comments and have a safe and epic Halloween!