Want some songs to get your family into the spooky spirit? AVRadio has set up playlist of 15 songs, ranging from classics to new hits, that’ll be sure to set the Halloween mood.

Thriller by Michael Jackson

What better way to begin this playlist than the timeless gem that is “Thriller,” possibly one of the most iconic Halloween songs by the legend Michael Jackson? Six minutes of powerful vocals and a killer dance routine makes this song a must-have for your Halloween playlist. 

Monster Mash by Bobby Picket

This song, released for the first time in 1962, has made its place as a classic Halloween favorite ever since. Narrated by a mad scientist whose monster comes to life to perform a dance inspired by the Mashed Potato, the track goes on to describe how the dance becomes popular with the rest of the monsters he throws a party for. It ends with inviting you (a living person) to join him at the party. 

Ghostbusters: The Theme Song by Ray Parker Jr. 

Everyone recognizes the opening notes of this nostalgic theme song sung by Ray Parker Jr. Having been resung, re-recorded and covered a thousand times over, the Ghostbusters theme song and the movie itself has remained a fixture in pop culture and humor for years since its release in 1990. 

The Addams Family by Andrew Gold 

Whether it was in the 1960’s TV show or the 1990’s movies, the Addams Family surprised and delighted audiences with their unusual ways. When you hear this familiar tune, it’s almost impossible not to *snap* *snap* along. 

This is Halloween by “The Citizens of Halloween” 

Sung in the 1993 movie “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” a Tim Burton dark fantasy film, this song opens the movie as an introduction to “Halloween Town,” a fictional world among seven others that celebrate the other prominent holidays. It includes lines from vampires, ghosts, shadows, clowns, monsters both under the bed and stairs and sets the mood for a truly spooky evening.   

Friends on the Other Side by Keith David

Disney’s The Princess and the Frog knew what it was doing when it cast Keith David to sing as Doctor Facilier. Right from the opening’s jazzy feel his smooth voice has you hooked every second. The showstopper is the ending, where the spirit’s low voices chime in, giving the tune the grand feel a Disney villain song deserves.

Spooky Scary Skeletons – Undead Tombstone Remix by Andrew Gold

The original Spooky Scary Skeletons song was sung in 1996 by Andrew Gold but has since been remixed and gained internet fame, especially after going viral as a Tik Tok trend. Listeners who love the tune but want a calmer version can turn to Spooky but Not That Spooky by Llusion, a lofi remix that’s perfect to study or relax to. 

Highway to Hell by AC/DC

This opening track to AC/DC’s 1979 album of the same name finds its place as a Halloween favorite following lead singer Bon Scott’s wild life and the torturous nature of their constant touring. 

Scream by Michael Jackson 

This song is a duet between Michael Jackson and his sister Janet. The distorted audio of the first before the bass kicks in and layered singing in the chorus adds to the vibe of the song. By the end, everyone will be singing along to Jackson’s iconic voice.

Bury a Friend by Billie Eilish 

This chilling song by Billie Eilish was released as a single and then part of her debut album “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” According to her, it is written from the perspective of the “monster under [one’s] bed,” where the monster could represent any fear from the listener’s life, but interpretations of this song vary greatly, and truly it’s deep bass and whispery vocals are enough for it be at home surrounded by other Halloween classics.  

The Ballad of Sara Berry by Lindsay Mendez, 35MM: A Musical Exhibition Original Cast 

The Ballad of Sara Berry features in 35mm: A Musical Exhibition tells the story of Sara Berry, a high school student who goes to great lengths to ensure her status as a prom queen. The rich vocals of the lead singer, the addictive bass line, and the plot of the story itself make this a must-listen.

The Time Warp by Richard O’Brien, Patricia Quinn, Neil Campbell

If you love the Cha Cha Slide or Cupid Shuffle, you probably love this song too. The Time Warp is a fun song with the dance moves built right in, which is always a great way to get everyone excited and back on the dance floor. 

Black Magic Woman by Santana

Even though the first words of this song are only sung a minute and 25 seconds in instrumentals are more than enough to catch your attention. The percussion and stunning guitar line remain the focus for the majority of the song.

Scooby-Doo (Scooby-Doo Theme Song) by Ohio Express

Watching Scooby-Doo solve mysteries is a fond memory from many’s childhoods. Even so, those who haven’t watched the TV series know the beloved characters,  Fred Jones, Daphne Blake, Velma Dinkley, and Shaggy Rogers, as well as the classic opening theme.

I Put a Spell on You (In the style of Hocus Pocus) by PattyCake 

Hocus Pocus is a classic Halloween movie, and this song sends you right back into the adventure of Max, Dani, and Alison as they try to escape the three witches they accidentally resurrected. Winifred’s interactions with the crowd, especially at the end as they repeat back her spell and she rejoices, give the song a fun feel.

Here’s the full playlist on Spotify. Enjoy!

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