Halloween Music

By Lena Turcios

  Halloween is the best time to indulge in spooky music during any activity. Spooky music is great background music for: completing schoolwork, doing the dishes or going on a run. During this time of year there are endless amounts of music to choose, ranging from oldies to more modern music. If you have been wondering what the best fall music is, then this article is perfect for you. The older halloween songs are the best ones because they are very entertaining to listen to. Below is a list of my 10 favorite October songs and why. 

1. Monster Mash by Bobby “Boris” Pickett & The Crypt-Kickers 

  This song was released in 1962. I love this song because of the diverse sound effects used to set the creepy tone. The opening coffin sound effect was made by pulling out a lump of wood with a hammer claw. The bubbling sounds came from water being blown through a straw, and the chain sounds were made by dropping chains onto plywood planks. I love how these very simple sounds make the song all that much interesting to hear.  

2. I Put a Spell On You by Screamin´ Jay Hawkins and Nina Simone´s version

  This song is another halloween classic because of how much emotion Hawkins puts into the lyrics he is singing. Piano and guitar are used in Hawkins’ song that came out in 1956. During the beginning of the song it starts off a bit slow but soon picks up when he begins to raise his voice in a raspy, emotion filled voice. Although Simone was not the creator of this song I love her version of it because though the musical tone is a lot slower than the original it still has the same emotion in her voice. I love this song because of the slight softness compared to Hawkins. 

3. Psycho Killer by Talking heads 

  This is one of my all time favorite songs, it was released in 1977,  and has been a hit ever since for its funky sound and prominent bass/drums. I love this song because it is the perfect song to dance to with its upbeat sound. The song starts off with a repetitive bass groove then slowly picks up towards the middle/end of the song. Similar to the other songs, the lead singer has a very strong voice that is completely filled with emotions. I love how it makes the song a lot more entertaining to listen to because of its prominent beat. The lyrics are also repetitive as well which makes it easier to learn the lyrics and follow along. 

4. Thriller by Michael Jackson 

  This is probably one of the most popular Halloween songs, and for good reason. The optimistic and upbeat sound of this song is what makes it so great, and especially great to have on at a party. This song is sure to get the crowd moving. Growing up, my mom would play a lot of Michael Jackson, so this is a very nostalgic song for me. I recommend this song to anyone who has never heard it because it has the perfect amount of spookiness and harmony together. 

5. Somebody’s Watching Me by Rockwell 

  On a similar note, this song is written by Rockwell, but also has additional background vocalists such as Michael Jackson and his brother, Jermaine Jackson. This is one of my all time favorite halloween songs and I feel that it is one of the greatest songs because of how the piano and guitar are used so nicely. Also, another reason I love this song is because of how Rockwell tells it in the form of a story. Michael and Jermaine Jackson´s voices are also beautiful and it adds the perfect touch to Rockwell´s different toned voice. They all compliment each other well. Similar to Thriller it is a pretty upbeat song, but in a different way. 

6. Dragula by Rob Zombie 

  If you like metal/hard rock then this is the perfect artist for you. All of Rob Zombie’s songs have eerie tones to it and are dark. This is the perfect artist to listen to if you want to get into the halloween spirit. This music has a more hardcore tone that is upbeat as well. There is heavy bass and drums involved in this tune which makes it the perfect song to let your anger out to. 

7. I Was A Teenage Werewolf by The Cramps 

  This band is the perfect option if you are a person who enjoys rock,  punk, and psychobilly. The entirety of The Cramps discography is spooky and eeriness, so if that is something you enjoy listening to in music form, I highly recommend this band. 

8. Heads Will Roll by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs 

  This song was released in 2009 and it’s a great song overall. It’s the perfect mix between upbeat pop and some rock elements. If you tend to lean more towards upbeat songs then this is a great song for you. Once again this is a great song to dance to. The song transitions between slower and faster parts very smoothly, and I love the contrast of sounds. 

9. Time Warp by Richard O’ Brien

  This song is mainly popular from its use in the iconic musical movie “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”. This is a high energy, entertaining, and over the top movie that is filled with classic horror elements and the most outstanding outfits you could ever see! I wholeheartedly recommend watching this movie if you have run out of movie ideas. In addition, you might also find a halloween costume idea while watching! I personally love the makeup of all the cast, especially Tim Curry. The music is very fast paced and exciting with its high tones and group singing. 

10. This Is Halloween By Michael Elias 

  Last but not least, this classic song featured in The Nightmare Before Christmas that is a year long favorite among people all over the world. In addition to the amazing movie with great visuals, the soundtrack is just as great to listen to on its own. If you have not seen this movie I highly recommend this movie if you enjoy animated films that have the perfect amount of spookiness. 

  In conclusion, October is a month to indulge in everything and anything that is mysterious and spine-chilling. You will not regret it if you take the time to watch and listen to these recommendations. Happy October!