17 Underrated Halloween Songs: 17 Must-Hear

Hey there, music aficionados! TBone here, the heart and soul behind Level Tunes. As a DJ and a die-hard music enthusiast, I’ve always been passionate about unearthing hidden gems in the world of music.

With Halloween just around the corner, I couldn’t resist diving into the spooky depths of music to bring you something special. So, I’ve put together a list of 17 underrated Halloween songs that deserve more spotlight.

Why? Because while we all love the classic Halloween anthems, there’s a whole world of eerie, captivating tracks that often go unnoticed.

These songs are perfect for setting a unique, spine-tingling mood at your Halloween bash or just to enjoy the hauntingly beautiful side of music. Let’s explore these overlooked treasures together and add some fresh, spooky vibes to our Halloween playlists!

Here are the underrated Halloween songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Halloween Songs

Underrated Halloween songs in a list format:

1. “The Hearse Song” by Harley Poe

Album: Satan, Sex and No Regrets (2012)
Label: Standard Recording Company
Harley Poe’s “The Hearse Song” is a darkly humorous track that perfectly encapsulates the Halloween spirit. Released in 2012 under Standard Recording Company, this song from the album “Satan, Sex and No Regrets” brings a blend of folk and punk with a macabre twist. The lyrics, which playfully remind listeners that death comes for us all, are set to a catchy, upbeat melody, making it eerily delightful. The song’s unique combination of grim lyrics with a lively tune is why it’s a must-have for any Halloween playlist. It’s a reminder that Halloween isn’t just about scares; it’s also about having fun with the darker side of life.

2. “Dead Man’s Party” by Oingo Boingo

Album: Dead Man’s Party (1985)
Label: MCA Records
Oingo Boingo’s “Dead Man’s Party” is an 80s classic that deserves more recognition during the Halloween season. From their 1985 album of the same name, released under MCA Records, this song is a fusion of new wave and rock with a spooky twist. The energetic horns and catchy beat, combined with Danny Elfman’s distinctive vocals, create a festive yet mysterious atmosphere. It’s a song that makes you want to dance with the living and the dead! I chose this track for its ability to turn any Halloween gathering into a lively, undead celebration.

3. “Spellbound” by Siouxsie and the Banshees

Album: Juju (1981)
Label: Polydor
“Spellbound” by Siouxsie and the Banshees, from their 1981 album “Juju” under Polydor, is a post-punk masterpiece. The song features Siouxsie Sioux’s haunting vocals and a mesmerizing guitar riff that truly captivates the listener. It’s a track that transports you to a world of mystery and enchantment, making it perfect for Halloween. The song’s gothic undertones and hypnotic rhythm are why it’s on my list. It’s not just a song; it’s an experience that embodies the essence of Halloween – mysterious, enchanting, and slightly unsettling.

4. “Red Right Hand” by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds

Album: Let Love In (1994)
Label: Mute Records
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds’ “Red Right Hand,” from their 1994 album “Let Love In” on Mute Records, is a song that exudes a sense of foreboding and mystery. The song’s title is a reference to John Milton’s “Paradise Lost,” adding a layer of literary depth to its haunting atmosphere. Cave’s deep, ominous vocals, combined with the chilling organ and eerie lyrics, create a perfect soundtrack for a Halloween night. I chose this song for its ability to evoke a sense of unease and intrigue, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more sophisticated scare.

5. “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” by Bauhaus

Album: 1979 Single (later included in various compilations)
Label: Small Wonder Records
“Bela Lugosi’s Dead” by Bauhaus is a seminal gothic rock track that pays homage to the legendary actor known for playing Dracula. Released as a single in 1979 under Small Wonder Records, this song is often considered the birth of gothic rock. The slow build-up, echoing guitar riffs, and Peter Murphy’s haunting vocals create an atmosphere that’s both eerie and captivating. It’s a tribute to the classic horror icon Bela Lugosi, making it a perfect fit for Halloween. The song’s lasting influence on the gothic genre is why it’s a must-listen during the spooky season.

6. “Season of the Witch” by Donovan

Album: Sunshine Superman (1966)
Label: Epic Records
Donovan’s “Season of the Witch,” from his 1966 album “Sunshine Superman” under Epic Records, brings a psychedelic twist to Halloween music. The song’s blend of folk and psychedelic rock, along with Donovan’s mellow vocals, creates a hypnotic and slightly eerie vibe. It’s a classic that stands out for its unique sound and mystical lyrics, making it a refreshing addition to any Halloween playlist. I chose this song for its ability to transport listeners to a different realm, one where magic and mystery reign supreme.

7. “Werewolves of London” by Warren Zevon

Album: Excitable Boy (1978)
Label: Asylum Records
Warren Zevon’s “Werewolves of London,” from the 1978 album “Excitable Boy” under Asylum Records, is a rock classic with a Halloween twist. The song’s catchy piano riff and playful lyrics about werewolves roaming the streets of London make it both fun and spooky. Zevon’s howling vocals and the song’s humorous approach to the classic werewolf tale are why it’s a Halloween favorite. It’s a track that doesn’t take itself too seriously, making it perfect for a light-hearted, spooky celebration.

8. “I Put a Spell on You” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins

Album: At Home with Screamin’ Jay Hawkins (1956)
Label: Okeh Records
Screamin’ Jay Hawkins’ “I Put a Spell on You,” from his 1956 album “At Home with Screamin’ Jay Hawkins” on Okeh Records, is a blues classic with a spooky twist. Hawkins’ gravelly voice and the dramatic delivery turn this love song into a haunting melody. The song’s theatricality and its association with magic and spells make it a Halloween staple. I included this track for its ability to blend the themes of love and the supernatural, creating a uniquely haunting experience.

9. “Ghost Town” by The Specials

Album: Single (1981)
Label: 2 Tone Records
“Ghost Town” by The Specials, released as a single in 1981 under 2 Tone Records, is a ska classic with a haunting theme. The song’s eerie lyrics about a desolate town, combined with its slow, reggae-influenced rhythm, create an atmosphere of isolation and despair. It’s a commentary on social and political issues, but its ghostly overtones make it fitting for Halloween. I chose this song for its ability to merge social commentary with a spooky vibe, offering something both thought-provoking and eerily relevant for Halloween.

10. “Black Magic Woman” by Santana

Album: Abraxas (1970)
Label: Columbia Records
Santana’s “Black Magic Woman,” from their 1970 album “Abraxas” under Columbia Records, is a song that perfectly blends Latin rock with a mystical aura. The song’s smooth guitar riffs and Carlos Santana’s soulful playing create a seductive and mysterious atmosphere. The track’s fusion of different musical styles and its enchanting theme are why it’s a great addition to any Halloween playlist. It’s a song that captures the allure and mystery of the supernatural, making it ideal for a night of Halloween festivities.

11. “A Nightmare on My Street” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince

Album: He’s the DJ, I’m the Rapper (1988)
Label: Jive/RCA
“A Nightmare on My Street” by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, from their 1988 album “He’s the DJ, I’m the Rapper” under Jive/RCA, brings a fun and lighthearted approach to Halloween music. The song, inspired by the “Nightmare on Elm Street” film series, features playful lyrics and a catchy beat. Will Smith’s storytelling rap style and the song’s humorous take on horror themes are why it’s a unique pick for Halloween. It’s a track that combines the spirit of Halloween with the fun of hip-hop, making it perfect for a lively Halloween party.

12. “Monster Mash” by Bobby “Boris” Pickett

Album: The Original Monster Mash (1962)
Label: Garpax Records
Bobby “Boris” Pickett’s “Monster Mash,” from his 1962 album “The Original Monster Mash” under Garpax Records, is a Halloween classic that often gets overlooked for its novelty. The song’s playful lyrics and catchy tune make it a fun addition to any Halloween celebration. Pickett’s imitation of Boris Karloff’s voice adds a classic horror movie feel to the song, making it both nostalgic and entertaining. I included “Monster Mash” for its timeless appeal and its ability to bring a smile to listeners of all ages during the Halloween season.

13. “Zombie” by The Cranberries

Album: No Need to Argue (1994)
Label: Island Records
The Cranberries’ “Zombie,” from their 1994 album “No Need to Argue” under Island Records, is a powerful song with a haunting message. While not a traditional Halloween song, its heavy guitar riffs and Dolores O’Riordan’s emotive vocals give it a dark and eerie quality. The song’s commentary on violence and its metaphorical use of the zombie imagery are why it’s a compelling choice for Halloween. It’s a track that not only fits the spooky theme but also offers depth and substance.

14. “Psycho Killer” by Talking Heads

Album: Talking Heads: 77 (1977)
Label: Sire Records
“Psycho Killer” by Talking Heads, from their 1977 album “Talking Heads: 77” under Sire Records, is a post-punk classic with a chilling theme. The song’s catchy bassline and David Byrne’s distinctive vocals create a sense of unease, fitting for the Halloween mood. The song’s exploration of a killer’s mind and its tense, edgy sound are why it’s an excellent choice for those looking for something a bit more intense for their Halloween playlist.

15. “Somebody’s Watching Me” by Rockwell

Album: Somebody’s Watching Me (1984)
Label: Motown
Rockwell’s “Somebody’s Watching Me,” from his 1984 album of the same name under Motown, is a song that perfectly captures the paranoia and fear associated with Halloween. The song’s synth-driven melody and Rockwell’s expressive vocals, combined with Michael Jackson’s iconic chorus, create a spooky and catchy tune. It’s a song that plays into the fear of being watched, making it a thrilling addition to any Halloween night.

16. “This Is Halloween” by Danny Elfman

Album: The Nightmare Before Christmas Soundtrack (1993)
Label: Walt Disney Records
Danny Elfman’s “This Is Halloween,” from the 1993 “The Nightmare Before Christmas” soundtrack under Walt Disney Records, is a whimsical yet eerie song that embodies the spirit of Halloween. The song’s playful lyrics and Elfman’s imaginative composition create a fantastical world that’s both spooky and enchanting. It’s a track that captures the essence of Halloween – a celebration of the weird and the wonderful. I chose this song for its ability to transport listeners to a magical Halloween world.

17. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson

Album: Thriller (1982)
Label: Epic Records
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” from his 1982 album of the same name under Epic Records, is an iconic song that needs no introduction. While it’s a well-known Halloween classic, its brilliance can sometimes be overshadowed by its popularity. The song’s fusion of funk and pop, along with Jackson’s charismatic performance and the legendary music video, make it a timeless Halloween hit. I included “Thriller” for its undeniable ability to bring everyone to the dance floor, making it the ultimate Halloween party song.

Fun Facts: Underrated Halloween Songs

“The Hearse Song” by Harley Poe

• Fact 1: “The Hearse Song” is often associated with World War I, where it was popular as a macabre and humorous song among soldiers. Its roots, however, go back even further, with variations of the song dating back to the 19th century.
• Fact 2: The song’s lyrics, “the worms crawl in, the worms crawl out,” have become iconic in popular culture, often used in various media to evoke a creepy or Halloween-like atmosphere.

“Dead Man’s Party” by Oingo Boingo

• Fact 1: Danny Elfman, the lead singer of Oingo Boingo, is also a renowned composer known for his work on numerous Tim Burton films, including “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”
• Fact 2: “Dead Man’s Party” was featured in the 1986 film “Back to School,” starring Rodney Dangerfield, where Oingo Boingo performs the song at a party scene.

“Spellbound” by Siouxsie and the Banshees

• Fact 1: “Spellbound” was a significant hit for Siouxsie and the Banshees, helping to establish them as a leading force in the post-punk and gothic rock scenes of the early 1980s.
• Fact 2: The song’s music video, directed by Julian Temple, is known for its surreal and artistic imagery, which perfectly complements the song’s ethereal and haunting mood.

“Red Right Hand” by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds

• Fact 1: “Red Right Hand” has been used in numerous films and TV shows, most notably as a theme song for the TV series “Peaky Blinders.”
• Fact 2: The song’s title and some of its imagery are inspired by John Milton’s epic poem “Paradise Lost,” where the “red right hand” represents divine vengeance.

“Bela Lugosi’s Dead” by Bauhaus

• Fact 1: “Bela Lugosi’s Dead” is considered one of the first gothic rock records and was pivotal in shaping the sound and aesthetic of the goth subculture.
• Fact 2: The song was recorded in a single take and is over nine minutes long, featuring a minimalist and haunting sound that was unconventional at the time of its release.

“Season of the Witch” by Donovan

• Fact 1: “Season of the Witch” reflects the psychedelic era of the 1960s, with its lyrics possibly alluding to the social upheaval and changing norms of the time.
• Fact 2: The song has been covered by a variety of artists across different genres, showcasing its enduring appeal and versatility.

“Werewolves of London” by Warren Zevon

• Fact 1: The song’s famous piano riff was played by Waddy Wachtel, who co-wrote the song with Zevon and LeRoy Marinell.
• Fact 2: “Werewolves of London” was Warren Zevon’s only Top 40 hit in the United States, despite his long and critically acclaimed career.

“I Put a Spell on You” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins

• Fact 1: Originally intended to be a blues ballad, the song became a wild performance piece due to Hawkins being drunk during the recording session, which led to its unique and eccentric style.
• Fact 2: “I Put a Spell on You” has been covered by numerous artists, including Nina Simone, whose version also gained significant acclaim.

“Ghost Town” by The Specials

• Fact 1: “Ghost Town” was released during a time of social and political unrest in the UK, including high unemployment and racial tension, which is reflected in the song’s somber tone and lyrics.
• Fact 2: The song reached number one on the UK Singles Chart and is considered one of the most effective pieces of popular social commentary from that era.

“Black Magic Woman” by Santana

• Fact 1: “Black Magic Woman” was originally written and performed by Fleetwood Mac’s Peter Green in 1968 before Santana’s famous version.
• Fact 2: Santana’s rendition of the song is a perfect example of their fusion of Latin rhythms with rock, which became their signature sound.

And there you have it, fellow music lovers and Halloween enthusiasts! From the haunting melodies to the spooky lyrics, these songs are sure to add an extra layer of excitement to your Halloween celebrations. Dive into these tunes and let the spirit of Halloween take over. Happy listening, and stay spooky.

Thanks for reading.

TBone