I am always a bit disappointed when I go to a Halloween party and everything that’s played is 40-year-old music, all from the same cult classic movies or bands. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with those songs, I crave something more. If I’m going to dress up as a vampire, surely I want to bop to something more than just “Ghostbusters.”
As a man with what some may describe as “girlypop” music taste, I think that I, as well as many others, want something new to add to our Halloween playlists. So, here is a small portion of pop hits from the last few years that I think can be relevant additions to your spooky mixes.
7. “Vampire” by Olivia Rodrigo
With such clear allusions to the famous Halloween monster, how could “Vampire” by Olivia Rodrigo not be on this list? However, some may be asking why this song ranks last on this list. Well, I wanted the songs to be fairly upbeat and danceable for a party, which is tricky for this song. The first verse and chorus lack a consistent beat, coming across more like a ballad than a typical pop song. However, I think the second verse onward makes up for this low energy significantly. If you’re a DJ, maybe try and start this song around the 1:18 minute mark so you can keep the party energy up.
6. “Bury A Friend” by Billie Eilish
In general, I think Billie Eilish can instantly make a playlist more sinister. Therefore, it was quite difficult to pick which of her songs would be best for this list. I debated between including Eilish’s 2019 song “Bad Guy” instead, because I think it can be the better choice for straight up party music. But “Bury A Friend” certainly outperforms it in spookiness. With lyrics such as “step on the glass, staple your tongue,” it’s difficult to find a more horrific song in Eilish’s discography.
5. “Escapism.” by RAYE and 070 Shake
This one is just biased on my part (perks of being the author). I think “Escapism.” by RAYE and 070 Shake is a must-have on any party track list — in addition to “Von Dutch” by Charli xcx. The main reason I think it’s appropriate for a Halloween party is the overall darkness of the sound and the vivid lyrics that evoke an ethereal picture in the listener's mind. This track also includes an organ which is, in my opinion, the best Halloween instrument. I think on Halloween we all have the same thought as RAYE of “I don’t wanna feel how I did last night.”
4. “Cure For Me” by AURORA
If you’re thrilled by Mario Kart music, then “Cure For Me” by AURORA is perfect for you. I added this song for similar reasons to “Escapism.” Its lyrics are weird, and the vocal performance is otherworldly. This bouncy track could also be a nice refresher from the darker sound of many Halloween bops. AURORA’s themes of self-creation and self-expression are perfect for a night of expressing yourself through costume.
3. “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga
No, this is not the only Lady Gaga song on this list. No, I am not sorry.
The melody of “Abracadabra” is infectious, and its lyrics are unabashedly incomprehensible, the telltale signs of an epic Gaga song. I picked this one for how witchy it is. The chorus sounds like a spell incantation, with the lyrics consisting of eldritch chanting. Yet again, I almost replaced this song with another, “Disease,” from the same album. Though honestly, you could put both on your playlist and just have a Gaga-heavy mix.
2. “supernatural” by Ariana Grande
Arguably the least spooky in terms of sound, but I had to have this good witch on the list. Even if the music of Ariana Grande’s “supernatural” isn’t dark, I think the track has a somewhat alien quality, which is backed up by the UFO shown in the music video. This song is about being possessed by a supernatural feeling. Grande sings: “This love’s possessing me, but I don’t mind at all,” which I think is an appropriate feeling for the season of ghosts. Plus, in my opinion, the entirety of “eternal sunshine” has distinctly fall vibes.
1. “The Dead Dance” by Lady Gaga
Here it is, the other Lady Gaga song and my top Halloween pop track on this list. I first heard this song while watching the second season of “Wednesday,” and it almost seems to be a return to form for Lady Gaga. To me, it’s reminiscent of her “The Fame Monster” era, as were many of the songs from her studio album “MAYHEM” which was released in March before “The Dead Dance.” I think what makes this song number one on my list is how undeniably spooky it is with lyrics such as, “I’m haunting your air, your soul, your eyes,” and its incredible danceability.
Sprinkle these songs alongside the forever classics of “Thriller,” “Ghostbusters” and “The Monster Mash” to have a more varied and up-to-date Halloween track list.
