The 31 Best Halloween Songs, Ranked
Soundtrack your spooktacular with this list of Halloween hits.
Michael Jackson performing “Thriller” during his “Bad Tour.” (Getty Images)
From Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and Bobby “Boris” Pickett’s “Monster Mash” to Rihanna’s “Disturbia,” the best Halloween songs bring the scares, nostalgia, and party energy. Whether you’re hosting a costume party, carving pumpkins, or getting into the spooky spirit, these 31 tracks belong on your Halloween playlist.
Count down our picks for the greatest Halloween songs, then keep the music going with Halloween channels, curated mixes, spooky podcasts, and more on the SiriusXM app.
Best Halloween Songs, Ranked
31. “Hocus Pocus” by Focus
With its wild yodeling, driving guitar riffs, and explosive energy, this instrumental rock classic is anything but ordinary. Its unpredictable sound makes it a fun addition to any Halloween party playlist.
30. “In the Night” by The Weeknd
Dark production, haunting vocals, and an unsettling atmosphere give this hit an eerie edge. Its moody sound makes it a fitting choice for a late-night Halloween playlist.
29. “Spirits” by The Strumbellas
This indie folk hit pairs an upbeat, singalong chorus with surprisingly dark lyrics. The contrast between its catchy melody and haunting themes makes it an unexpected Halloween pick.
28. “Black Cat” by Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson trades dance-pop for hard-rock guitars on this electrifying hit. With its ominous title, rebellious attitude, and powerful riffs, “Black Cat” brings plenty of energy to a Halloween playlist.
27. “Creep” by Radiohead
Radiohead’s alternative rock classic explores alienation, insecurity, and the feeling of not belonging. While not a traditional Halloween song, its unsettling atmosphere makes it a fitting addition to a darker playlist.
26. “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Don’t let the upbeat melody fool you. With lyrics warning of impending disaster and trouble ahead, this classic rock hit delivers an ominous soundtrack for Halloween night.
25. “Hells Bells” by AC/DC
Opening with the ominous tolling of a bell, this hard-rock classic sets a chilling mood before launching into AC/DC’s signature thunderous guitars. It’s a natural fit for Halloween.
24. “Lullaby” by The Cure
With its whispery vocals and unsettling imagery of a spider-like creature, “Lullaby” feels like a nightmare set to music. The Cure’s eerie production makes it one of the band’s most haunting songs.
23. “Zombie” by The Cranberries
Dolores O’Riordan’s powerful vocals and the song’s dark, atmospheric sound give this alternative rock classic an appropriately haunting feel. Although its lyrics address real-world violence rather than the supernatural, its intensity makes it a memorable Halloween playlist selection.
22. “Boo! It’s Halloween” by Greg & Steve
A playful Halloween favorite for younger listeners, this children’s song brings spooky fun without the scares. Its catchy melody makes it perfect for classroom celebrations, costume parties, and family gatherings.
21. “My Family” by Migos, Snoop Dogg, Karol G & Rock Mafia
Featured on the soundtrack to the 2019 animated film The Addams Family, this hip-hop collaboration puts a modern spin on the franchise’s celebration of family and all things unusual. It’s a fun addition to a contemporary Halloween playlist.
20. “Dark Horse” by Katy Perry (feat. Juicy J)
With its hypnotic beat, mystical imagery, and references to magic, “Dark Horse” brings a supernatural edge to the dance floor. Katy Perry’s chart-topping hit is an easy addition to a modern Halloween party playlist.
19. “Ghost Town” by The Specials
With its eerie organ melodies and unsettling atmosphere, “Ghost Town” captures the feeling of wandering through an abandoned city. The Specials’ haunting ska classic makes an atmospheric addition to any Halloween soundtrack.
18. “Pet Sematary” by Ramones
Written for the 1989 film adaptation of Stephen King’s Pet Sematary, this Ramones track combines catchy punk rock with horror-inspired lyrics. It’s a natural pick for fans of scary movies and classic rock.
17. “I Put a Spell on You” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins
With its theatrical vocals, eerie delivery, and supernatural imagery, this blues classic has become a Halloween staple. Screamin’ Jay Hawkins’ unforgettable performance sounds like something straight out of a haunted house.
16. “Freaks Come Out at Night” by Whodini
This old-school hip-hop favorite celebrates the strange characters and unpredictable energy that emerge after dark. Its infectious groove and nighttime theme make it a natural Halloween party anthem.
15. “The Addams Family Theme” by Vic Mizzy
Few television themes are as instantly recognizable as this spooky classic. With its finger snaps, playful lyrics, and celebration of everyone’s favorite creepy family, it’s a Halloween essential.
14. “Evil Woman” by Electric Light Orchestra
With its dramatic strings, infectious groove, and mysterious title, ELO’s classic rock hit brings a little supernatural flair to a Halloween playlist. Its polished sound makes it a fun choice for a retro-themed party.
13. “Werewolves of London” by Warren Zevon
Warren Zevon’s humorous rock classic tells the story of werewolves roaming London, complete with an unforgettable piano riff and howling chorus. It’s one of Halloween’s most recognizable singalong favorites.
12. “She Wolf” by Shakira
Shakira embraces her wild side on this dance-pop hit, blending infectious beats with werewolf-inspired imagery. Its playful supernatural theme and dance-floor energy make it a Halloween party favorite.
11. “Black Magic Woman” by Santana
Originally written and recorded by Fleetwood Mac, “Black Magic Woman” became a signature hit for Santana. Its hypnotic guitar work and lyrics about enchantment make it a spellbinding addition to a Halloween playlist.
10. “This Is Halloween” from The Nightmare Before Christmas
Written by Danny Elfman and performed by the film’s cast, “This Is Halloween” introduces the delightfully spooky world of Halloween Town. Its theatrical vocals, creepy characters, and unforgettable melody make it an essential seasonal soundtrack selection.
9. “Bark at the Moon” by Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy Osbourne brings werewolf-inspired horror to heavy metal with this electrifying classic. Its chilling imagery, thunderous guitars, and unforgettable chorus make it a perfect soundtrack for Halloween night.
8. “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC
With its iconic guitar riff and rebellious energy, “Highway to Hell” brings a hard-rock edge to Halloween festivities. It may not be a traditional spooky song, but its devilish title makes it a perennial playlist favorite.
7. “Spooky, Scary Skeletons” by Andrew Gold
Originally released in 1996, this playful Halloween song found new popularity through internet memes and viral videos. Its catchy melody and dancing-skeleton imagery make it a favorite for kids and adults alike.
6. “Disturbia” by Rihanna
Rihanna’s dark dance-pop hit combines unsettling lyrics, eerie production, and an infectious chorus. With its themes of fear and paranoia, “Disturbia” has become a modern Halloween party staple.
5. “Time Warp” from The Rocky Horror Picture Show
It’s just a jump to the left! This beloved musical number from The Rocky Horror Picture Show has become a Halloween party tradition. Its infectious energy and iconic dance instructions make it impossible to resist.
4. “Monster Mash” by Bobby “Boris” Pickett
Since its release in 1962, “Monster Mash” has been one of Halloween’s most beloved novelty hits. Featuring a mad scientist, classic movie monsters, and a graveyard dance party, it’s a must-play for any spooky celebration.
3. “Somebody’s Watching Me” by Rockwell
Rockwell’s 1984 hit captures the unsettling feeling that someone is always watching. Featuring Michael Jackson on the unforgettable chorus, its paranoid lyrics and eerie synth-pop production make it a Halloween favorite.
2. “Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker Jr.
Who you gonna call? Ray Parker Jr.’s theme from the 1984 blockbuster Ghostbusters remains one of the most recognizable Halloween songs ever recorded. Its irresistible chorus and playful supernatural theme make it a favorite for listeners of all ages.
1. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson
No Halloween playlist is complete without Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” From its sinister sound effects and Vincent Price’s chilling spoken-word performance to its legendary zombie-filled music video, this pop masterpiece remains the ultimate Halloween anthem.
Halloween on SiriusXM
Keep the scares and songs going with Halloween programming on SiriusXM. From the return of SCREAM Radio to spooky playlists, themed music mixes, and chilling podcasts, there’s something for every Halloween celebration.
Explore Halloween entertainment on the SiriusXM app, whether you’re hosting a costume party, handing out candy, or looking for something spooky to listen to after dark.
