Alright, Gen Xers and elder millennials, grab your pumpkin beer, dust off the old stereo, and crank the volume. Halloween isn’t just for the kids anymore.
For those of us who still remember when MTV played music and Monster Mash actually felt edgy, here’s a hard-hitting list of four iconic Halloween tracks that still slap like a skeleton on speed. We’re talking ghoulish greatness, retro rock and a touch of the bizarre.
1. ‘Monster Mash’ – Bobby ‘Boris’ Pickett
Let’s get this out of the graveyard first: “Monster Mash” is still the Halloween anthem. Boris Pickett’s graveyard smash from 1962 is corny, creepy and perfect. It’s got mad scientist vibes, B-movie horror charm and a beat that refuses to die. It’s not just a novelty song, it’s an undead classic. Every time it plays, it feels like Vincent Price is somewhere nodding in approval.
2. ‘Werewolves of London’ – Warren Zevon
You want Halloween cool? Zevon brought the full moon swagger in this 1978 hit. With that piano riff and snarling vocals, it’s bluesy, boozy and full of fanged attitude. It’s not just a werewolf song, it’s the werewolf song.
3. ‘Somebody’s Watching Me’ – Rockwell (feat. Michael Jackson)
Ever feel paranoid in your own house after a scary movie? Rockwell captured that vibe perfectly. With MJ on the hook, it’s got the pop punch, the synthy paranoia and enough ‘80s energy to summon a Stranger Things marathon. This one doesn’t just haunt, it dances while it does.
4. ‘This Is Halloween’ – Danny Elfman
Okay, okay, you’re not a Disney adult, but The Nightmare Before Christmas is still goth gold and this track is like Halloween in musical form. Elfman’s orchestral chaos and eerie chorus make it ideal background music for carving pumpkins, handing out candy or plotting world domination.
So, whether you’re turning your garage into a haunted house or just vibing in your man cave, these four tracks are essential to any Halloween playlist with taste and a bit of twisted nostalgia.
