This October, I’ve made it my mission to create the best Halloween playlist. If you’re like me, and wait till the very last second to find a playlist to put on the night of Halloween, here are 7 songs that should make your Halloween terrifying.

#1 “Tainted Love” by Soft Cell

Originally created by Gloria Jones in 1964 (also an amazing track), Soft Cell’s cover was released in 1981 and was the best-selling single of that year in the UK. With over 1.05 million copies sold, it soon found its way to the US, where it spent 43 weeks on the US Billboard Hot 100. Although not intended to be a spooky-themed song, the mysterious nature of the lyrics and synthesizer used creates a spooky feel, perfect for Halloween.

#2 “Somebody’s Watching Me” by Rockwell

Featured in Hocus Pocus (2022), Rockwell’s “Somebody’s Watching Me” is an 80’s classic especially when it comes to Halloween. Released in 1983, the song features Michael Jackson with his haunting lyrics “I always feel like somebody’s watching me”. Michael’s contribution at the time went uncredited to allow Rockwell’s career and reputation to grow. It hit number two on The US Billboard Top 100 in 1984, and has continued to go down in history as one of the most iconic Halloween songs of all time.

#3 “Psycho Killer” by The Talking Heads

Heard in shows like Stranger Things, The Vampire Diaries, and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, “Psycho Killer” by The Talking Heads is an 80’s classic and one of their most famous songs. The song could relate to just about any slasher film out there, with a catchy beat and great lyrics. Psycho Killer is one of my favorite Halloween-themed songs, and should definitely be somewhere on your playlist.

#4 “Eyes Without A Face” by Billy Idol

The only reason why I have this song at #4 is because it is not specifically a Halloween song, but is perfect to get you in the mood for something spooky. It is currently my favorite, and has been on a loop in my headphones since the 1st of October. The song was inspired by the 1960 French film Les Yeux sans visage. The song’s mysterious nature amplifies its fall-feel, all the while keeping you interested with its haunting lyrics.

#5 “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Oyster Cult

“(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Oyster Cult is a song about the inevitability of death, and alludes to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Released in 1976, this classic rock song was featured in the film Halloween (1978) and was Blue Oyster Cult’s biggest hit. It reached #12 on the Hot 100 chart, and is known for its eerie but persuading message about happiness in death. Ironically, it’s a great song for parties due to its fast tempo, or in the background while you’re trick-or-treating.

#6 “Pet Sematary” by Ramones

The song “Pet Sematary” was written for the 1989 film Pet Sematary, which was based on a novel by Steven King. King approached the Ramones since he admired them, and asked them to write the song for the movie. Although I personally often dislike songs that were written for films, “Pet Sematary” by the Ramones is an exception. It’s a great song that, like “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper”, is perfect for Halloween parties. 

#7 “Where Is My Mind?” by The Pixies

“Where Is My Mind?” by The Pixies has been one of my favorite songs since the start of 7th grade, and still continues to be on my Spotify Wrapped. Its poetic and mystifying lyrics absolutely captivates an audience, while leaving you feeling inspired and creative. Listening to this song on a rainy October night is the best way to experience it, bonus points if you have some sort of warm beverage.

Honorable Mention- “Thriller” by Michael Jackson

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Where’s Thriller??” Well, I think we can all agree that “Thriller” by Michael Jackson may be one of the most frequently played Halloween songs ever to exist. I figured that you, much like me, already have it on your playlist, or are in agreement that it is overplayed. While I do think it is a good song, I think there should be a limit on the amount of times it is played in one month, especially October.

These 7 songs are some of my personal favorites, and I am happy to share them with you this October. Happy Halloween!