It’s the most wonderful time of the year. No, I’m not talking about pumpkin spice season. (Yuck!) I’m talking about the haunting season. Everyone gets all dressed up and spooky. It really is one of the best times of the year. (Obviously unbiased.) One of my favorite things, other than dressing up, is the music. Yes, there are Halloween songs, and no, they are not just The Monster Mash and Thriller. If you are in need of some extra spirit to get you in the true Halloween mood, here are a few songs to pump up your spooky side.
1. "It’s Almost Halloween" - Panic at the Disco
This bizarre original tune from pre-solo Brendon Urie (Panic at the Disco) is upbeat, fun, and spunky. My Beatle-loving heart goes crazy when it comes to this era of the band and this song. "It’s Almost Halloween” is a pure example of how they experimented into the developing of the band's iconic sound. Even the video is off-beat and not what you would expect the band to release, but then again, seeing Dracula and Mummy jamming out while wearing Ray-Bans only seems fitting.
2. "Sally’s Song" - Nightmare Before Christmas Cast
Whoever said that Halloween isn’t a time for love and romance is wrong. “Sally’s Song” from the movie “Nightmare Before Christmas” is as about romantic and heartbreaking Halloween could possibly get. Poor Sally spills her guts out about the longing she has for Jack, but she can’t act on her feelings because she is locked away by a mad scientist. If that’s not true love, then I don’t know what is. Love is a year-round thing and, in my opinion, the most potent during the Halloween season.
3. "Time Warp" - Rocky Horror Picture Show Cast
It's just a jump to the left...and then a step to the right. Every great playlist need a line dance and Rocky Horror Picture Show's "Time Warp" is just that. This transsexual Transylvanian and his hodgepodge group will teach you the easy steps to get you back to their home planet. If you get really good at it, maybe you just might have to brave a live reenactment of the movie at your local cinema.
4. "Ghostbusters" - Ray Parker Jr.
If you’re not including the “Ghostbusters” theme song on
your spooky playlist, then why even have a spooky playlist? This iconic 80's hit is
catchy, fun, and guaranteed to make any ghoul or goblin want to get up and
dance. If you are looking for a more modern take, then check out the soundtrack that was released with the all-female cast remake.
5. I Put a Spell On You - Jay Hawkins
Most of you know the Bette Midlers’ rendition in the Halloween classic "Hocus Pocus", but the original was recorded in 1955 by Jay Hawkins. His voice alone is eerie and perfect for the lyrics. It may not be the 90's pop version we all grew up with, but it is likely to become a favorite on your spooky playlist.
So if you are looking for a playlist to liven up your costume party or just want some haunted jams while you decorate your Halloween tree check these tunes out.
