Halloween hits: The ultimate Halloween playlist

As everyone basks in all the pumpkin carving, costuming, and cobweb adorning of the autumn season, there is absolutely no better way to get into the Halloween spirit than crafting the perfect, most ghoulish, playlist. From haunting gothic classics to thrilling party anthems, this comprehensive guide to October’s essential tunes will usher any and all listeners into the freakishly festive spirit.  

‘A Forest’ – The Cure 

You can’t make a Halloween playlist without mentioning The Cure. A gothic rock classic, Robert Smith’s haunting vocals and one of the band’s most memorable basslines make ‘A Forest’ an unmissable song on any Halloween playlist. With a ghostly vocal delay, Smith’s mysterious and eerie lyrics, and a melodic battle between the dark bass and upbeat synths, this track plays perfectly at any October party.  

‘Lucretia My Reflection’ – The Sisters of Mercy 

Unmistakeably the song with the best, most prominently dark bass on this list, the howling guitars of ‘Lucretia My Reflection’ would force even the least festive person into the mood for Halloween. With its incredible electric guitar led instrumental and Andrew Eldritch’s distinctly gothic and strikingly deep vocals, this eight-minute tale of destruction and terror was meticulously crafted to be heard on a dark Autumn night.  

‘Dead Souls’ – Nine Inch Nails 

This cover provides a much moodier version of the original Joy Division song, with the slowed tempo and Trent Reznor’s strained, impassioned vocals resulting in a distinctly haunting sound – the perfect combination for any Halloween playlist. Made for the soundtrack of gothic cult classic movie The Crow, which features some other fittingly heavy songs from the likes of The Cure, The Jesus and Mary Chain, and Rage Against the Machine, this incredible ‘Dead Souls’ cover is a quintessentially angsty Halloween must-listen.  

‘Spellbound’ – Siouxsie and The Banshees 

One of the most influential post-punk bands of the 20th century, even serving as sonic and aesthetic inspiration for The Cure, much of Siouxsie and The Banshees’ gothic-driven discography would be an apt fit for this list. However, the 1981 electric masterpiece ‘Spellbound’ in particular shines out as a track with all the makings of a Halloween classic. With Siouxsie Sioux’s eerie, witchy lyrics paired with punchy drums and an unforgettable guitar riff, this haunting song will perfectly soundtrack any chilly October evening. 

‘Sugar’ – Bladee  

Moving towards some more modern picks, this distinctly vampiric 2016 track from Swedish rapper Bladee presents a punchier option for those looking for some higher-energy Halloween picks. ‘Sugar’ offers some quintessentially haunting lyrics, with Bladee’s autotune-drenched vocals delivering a catchy yet grisly chorus about longing for the sweet taste of his lover’s blood. Perfect for any late-night Dracula rewatches, this intense and quirky track is sure to bring the goosebumps on any playlist.   

‘Psycho Killer’ – Talking Heads 

It’s all in the title with this one. Truly a Halloween party classic, this debut hit for the Talking Heads provides a groovier break amidst some of the heavier gothic tracks on this list. Perfect for a solo dance session and an inevitable crowd-pleaser at any party, the macabre lyrics and driving bassline of ‘Psycho Killer’ make it an essential playlist addition.  

‘Personal Jesus’ – Marilyn Manson 

This heavier cover of the Depeche Mode classic takes the iconic haunting sound of this song to another level. With the amped-up, screeching electric guitar ringing out the unforgettable riff of ‘Personal Jesus’ and Manson’s raspy vocals perfectly complimenting the daring lyrics of this track, this gritty cover is an absolute must-listen this Halloween season.  

‘Freaks Come Out at Night’ – Whodini  

Another crowd-pleaser, this massive 1984 electronic hip-hop classic was made for those curating an upbeat, but still aptly spooky, Halloween playlist. With an unmistakeably 80s sound, an irresistibly catchy hook, and Whodini’s playfully eerie lyricism, ‘Freaks Come Out at Night’ is perfect for any macabre singalongs.  

‘Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)’ – David Bowie 

A David Bowie classic, the quick driving guitar and quirky lyricism of ‘Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)’ make for an undeniably fun festive listen. Just as fitting on a Halloween playlist as it would be on the soundtrack of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, this song provides a perfect blend of spookiness and campiness that will add some excitement to your blend of haunting tracks. 

‘Monster’ – Kanye West feat. Jay Z, Rick Ross, Nicki Minaj, Bon Iver 

A star-studded collaboration and one of Nicki Minaj’s best verses, this iconic song is the perfect mix of dark and playful to get you excited for some upbeat Halloween festivities. The quintessential October party song, all the twists and turns in ‘Monster’’s many features are sure to bring the thrills to any playlist this season.  

‘Thriller/ Heads Will Roll’ – Glee Cast 

Whilst few people may long to have the Glee Cast make an appearance on their Spotify Wrapped, this energetic mashup provides the unmissable opportunity to listen to two absolute Halloween classics at once. The most upbeat entry on this list, this brilliant ensemble track features all the over-the-top background screams, wolf howls, and demonic voice effects that any Halloween-loving heart could desire. 

‘Feed My Frankenstein’ – Alice Cooper 

It doesn’t get more on the nose than this. This undeniably fun Halloween anthem from rock icon Alice Cooper has all the ghoulishly corny lyrics you could dream of this festive season. With a screeching electric guitar, heavy bass, and Cooper’s growling vocals, ‘Feed My Frankenstein’ is an eclectic, busy song purpose-built for an October playlist.