Creating an atmosphere for Halloween Eve, Halloween night, or even October as a whole is fun. Whether you’re chilling by yourself or with a group of folks (hopefully safely given the pandemic), the music is key. No shade, but having Ed Sheeran playing in the background doesn’t create ambiance, which is why constructing a playlist (if you’re into that sort of thing) is a wise choice of action. But what songs will maintain that vibe?
It’d be easy to simply say “oh just put on some gothic sounding songs” and leave you to it. But that would mean reducing myself to someone who doesn’t know a damn thing, and that’s not what I’m going to do! As someone who listens to a wide variety of genres, this won’t be a typical list of recommendations. There’s something that’ll be suitable for whatever occasion you’re aiming for. Hold onto your pumpkins and get your music streaming service ready. These suggestions are separated by occasion to make it easier on you.
Party time!
Everyone’s definition of a party varies but when it comes the music, the music absolutely affects the mood. You don’t want people calling your party a snooze fest. It all hinges on the playlist you may put together yourself. So, if you’re looking for modern songs with a few throwbacks sprinkled in, these suggestions will do the trick.
- “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” by Bauhaus
- “Spellbound” by Siouxsie and the Banshees
- “Tear You Apart” by She Wants Revenge
- “bury a friend” by Billie Eilish
- “Scary” by Megan Thee Stallion feat. Rico Nasty
- “Venom” by Little Simz
- “Heads Will Roll A-Trak Remix” by The Yeah Yeah Yeahs
- “The Devil” by BANKS
- “Monster Mash (Metal Version)” by Leo
Vibing alone
Sometimes vibing alone is satisfying enough for Halloween night. Not everyone wants to hit the town and dance till they sweat. Therefore, a night in might be the best choice (especially since the pandemic isn’t over). If your night in revolves around relaxing with a playlist on in the background, what songs will be on it? Maybe the ones below!
- “Mr. Sandman” by The Chordettes (I had to!)
- “Gold Dust Woman” by Fleetwood Mac
- “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” cover by Denmark + Winter
- “Oui Oui Marie” cover by Chelsea Wolfe
- “I Put a Spell on You” by Nina Simone
- “Sugar Water” by Cibo Matto (trust me, it fits)
General suggestions
What about all-purpose Halloween music? Here are some songs that can go on any spooky playlist.
- “Season of the Witch” by Donovan
- “Psycho Killer” by Talking Dead
- “Jennifer’s Body” by Hole
- “Red Right Hand” by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
- “I Got 5 on It Tethered Mix ” by Michael Abels, Luniz, Michael Marshall
(featured image: Universal Pictures)
