Scaring Up Some Halloween Music

In a year like no other, the way we celebrate our holidays is changing. Halloween is no different.

Halloween is no different. While we take safety measures which have eliminated much of the boisterous parties, and the traditional door-to-door pursuit of candy, we can still treat ourselves to some Halloween fun.

During these crazy times, when the days get colder and darker – including weatherwise – let’s get our dance on. Yes, what better way to shake out our complacency as well as our bodies that all too often are sitting in a chair bent over a computer or slung across a sofa watching Netflix.

Why sit around when you can party with your family and loved ones, throw on some music and dance to some Halloween-themed tunes. Since you’re already watching TV, let’s start with some movie music.

Here are a few songs to get your playlist started.

Ghostbusters: Title song of the 1984 film, and an oft-played anthem in many elementary school PE classes. Written and performed by Ray Parker, Jr., the song has pedigree, and awards. It won the Academy Award and Golden Globe for Best Original Song, as well as the Academy Award for Best Pop Instrumental. It was also awarded American Music’s Favorite Soul and R&B Video, and an American Music award for Favorite Pop/Rock Song. Now, that’s people pleasing music for the entire family. It’s got a beat. And you can dance to it.

Day-O (The Banana Boat Song): What do you do with an unwanted visitor? Try to get them out of your house as soon as you can. This proves difficult for the family who moves into a home haunted by Beetlejuice, a ghost who’s more obnoxious than scary, and has a penchant for a certain Harry Belafonte tune. An original score by Danny Elfman, not to mention fantastic images only director Tim Burton could conjure make this a visual and sonic experience that’s more treat than trick.

Rocky Horror Picture Show: Maybe not quite for the kids, but it gets Honorable mention for creativity and it’s iconic stature among generations of college kids who attend midnight showings, and sing – and dress – along.

The rest of this playlist is curated from pop, rock and soul, and in no particular order.

Werewolves of London – the genius of Warren Zevon – part horror, part social commentary. Always fun and entertaining.

Thriller: Watching a video of the coolest Zombies around is a reminder of how words and music can tell a thrilling story.

Monster Mash: The ultimate Halloween anthem. This 1962 one-hit wonder from Bobby ‘Boris’ Pickett and the Crypt Keepers traces the journey of a mad scientist who creates a monster who is a pretty good dancer as well.

I Put A Spell on You: Bette Midler goes full freaky witch in some pretty awful makeup with this version from the 1993 film, Hocus Pocus. It’s worth seeing the movie just to watch her vamp.

Superstition: One of Stevie Wonder’s earlier and most recognizable song is both cautionary tale and a funky dance hit.

It’s fun to dig up – see what I did there – more tunes to make your Halloween a little more festive. Preview the songs to see what’s appropriate listening for your kids.

Good Housekeeping offers their 50 top picks, and a Google search will turn up even more lists.

Even if our celebrations are more low-key this year, Halloween is by no means canceled. The trick is to find your own way to celebrate the season. Get the party started with some dance music and treat yourself to some spooky fun.

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Guest UserOctober 30, 2020