Every Halloween, you may ask yourself the same haunting question: What spooky song should be on your playlist this year?
This question is even more draining and exhausting than you can imagine because, firstly, there are the overplayed classics; everyone knows Thriller and Monster Mash, and playing them again is so typical, and you may want to give your guests a whole new experience at your Halloween dinners. Another dilemma is that it takes many hours of digging through obscure playlists and artist catalogs to find the best spooky tracks, which are hidden gems and, most times, need to be mainstream. The track might seem right, but it’s so niche you can’t tell if it would resonate with anyone else.
What Spooky Songs Should I Play For Halloween?
Here are a few deciding factors in curating killer Halloween playlists that will elevate your dinner/parties and have everyone asking for the link. Let’s get right into it:
Match The Mood Of Your Gathering
Now, consider the vibe of your Halloween party. Choose songs that fit the aesthetic if you’re going for a haunted house party, a cozy night in, or an animated costume bash. A fun tone like “Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker Jr. might fit a spooky soirée, while classic tunes like “The Adam’s Family theme song” might be best for family and friends.
Make A Sound Journey
The idea is to take your special guests through the feels of the Halloween events. You could build a story arc. Start with haunting melodies like “Danse Macabre” by Camille Saint-Saëns or slow, suspenseful songs like “Tubular bells” (The theme from The Exorcist) to set the scene. They gradually build the energy to a more upbeat track like “Disturbia” by Rihanna or “Heads Will Roll” by Yeah Yeah Yeahs before closing the night with an intense banger like “Bury a Friend” by Billie Eilish.
Try Crossing Genres
Rather than sticking to prominent “spooky” genres like horror soundtracks or goth rock. You could mix in a bit of jazz with the same spooky twist or even pop songs with creepy remixes. Try soundtracks like “The Twilight Zone Theme” and transition into a more funky, spooky remix like “Spooky, scary, skeletons” by DJ Early Bird remix. This way, the variety adds depth and keeps your playlist fresh!
Consider The Time Of The Night
Choosing songs based on the time of the evening is a fun way to blend the tracks with the progression of dinner time. As the night deepens, switch to tracks with darker undertones like “Black No. 1” by Type O Negative or “The Killing Moon” by Echo and The Bunnymen. For earlier in the evening, an upbeat, spooky tune like “Somebody’s Watching Me” by Rockwells or “Ghost Town” by The Specials is a sure way to get guests in the Halloween spirit.
Bring The Nostalgia
Suppose you want sing-along moments, including songs that evoke nostalgia or memories of past Halloweens. Classic songs from childhood or a track from a memorable costume party can create an intimate moment!
Contact Nights of the Jack!
It’s never too early to begin listening to Halloween songs; in the same way, it’s never too early to begin planning your next visit to Nights of the Jack next fall! Staying updated with our latest blogs will get you back into the Halloween spirit in no time! For more information and questions regarding next year’s visit, please do not hesitate to contact us!