Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga, My Chemical Romance top the holiday-themed tracks
Every party needs a bumping soundtrack, and Halloween parties are certainly not an exception to the rule. Artists across a variety of genres have released songs with spooky, haunting themes. Give these tunes a spin at your Halloween party this weekend.
“Thriller”
Michael Jackson
No party is complete without the King of Pop’s creep-tastic hit. If you have the capability to pull up the music video on a big screen, try getting your friends to learn the dance.
“Ghostbusters” theme song
Ray Parker Jr.
The classic 1980s film had a killer soundtrack, but the theme song is definitely the most memorable. Get your dance on to this synth-heavy track and don’t be afraid to sing along. “I ain’t afraid of no ghosts!”
“Monster Mash”
Bobby “Boris” Pickett
It’s Halloween. Playing “Monster Mash” is a requirement. Enough said.
“This Is Halloween” from “The Nightmare Before Christmas”
Tim Burton fans likely have the lyrics to this tune memorized, so expect them to sing along if you play this track at your party.
“Bad Moon Rising”
Creedence Clearwater Revivial
A Southern Halloween party needs a little CCR in the mix. This song was released in 1969, but it’s still a great party tune that your guests will recognize from various movies and television shows. The song has been covered by several artists from different genres, but the original is hard to beat.
“Teeth”
Lady Gaga
The woman fans lovingly refer to as Mama Monster has released a slew of dark-tinged tracks. This upbeat dance song is perfect for getting your friends on the dance floor. Other Gaga tracks that would be suitable for a Halloween party playlist include “Monster” and “Dance in the Dark.”
“Demon Host”
Timber Timbre
If your guests need to take a break from busting a move, put on this haunting track from indie artist Timber Timbre. Singer Taylor Kirk’s distinctive voice will put a spell on listeners and the laid-back blues-y backup band will give you chills.
“My Body’s a Zombie for You”
Dead Man’s Bones
Yep, this is Ryan Gosling’s band. This song combines a chorus of children, tambourine and hand claps to create a creepy but endearing track that is certainly appropriate for a Halloween party.
“Time Warp” from
“The Rocky Horror Picture Show”
“It’s just a jump to the left...” Group dance time! Get on your feet and follow the lyrics to do the silly crowd-pleasing “Time Warp.”
“Super Freak”
Rick James
While it’s not really spooky, Rick James’ funky hit is an incredibly fun dance track that will keep your friends grooving.
“Somebody’s Watching Me?"
Got Motown fans among your friend group? Another ‘80s classic, this Rockwell jam will have you singing along in no time.
“A Beautiful Lie”
30 Seconds to Mars
Jared Leto and band know a thing or two about writing creepy lyrics. This alternative rock tune will be familiar to guests and provides a nice break from older songs and dance tracks.
“E.T.”
Katy Perry
There’s room for more than one pop powerhouse on this playlist. Katy Perry’s Top 40 hit isn’t outplayed yet and your Halloween party provides the perfect opportunity to spin it again.
“Helena”
My Chemical Romance
Emo princes My Chemical Romance are experts when it comes to penning gothic, creepy-themed songs. This upbeat track may make some guests feel nostalgic for those high school Warped Tour days.
“My Boy Builds Coffins”
Florence and the Machine
British songstress Florence Welch has a talent for weaving macabre imagery into her lyrics. This track off her “Lungs” album is a great tune to play at your Halloween party and it will tide fans over until Florence’s new album comes out on Nov. 1.
“Heads Will Roll”
Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Yeah Yeah Yeahs frontwoman Karen O’s voice will keep the party rolling with this track which regained popularity after being featured on an episode of “Glee” last season.