[2026] Recommended for Halloween Parties! A Special Feature on Western Halloween Songs
In recent years, Halloween has become one of the most exciting events of the year in Japan as well!
Many of you have probably gone out in costume or attended a Halloween party at least once, right?
And nothing boosts the Halloween mood like music!
There are plenty of Japanese songs with a Halloween theme, but many people still prefer to choose from Western music.
So in this article, we’ll introduce lots of English-language songs that are perfect for Halloween!
We’ve gathered a wide range—from songs that are directly about Halloween and movie theme songs to tracks about ghosts and tunes with a spooky atmosphere—so be sure to find your favorite one.
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[2026] Recommended for Halloween parties! A special feature on Western Halloween songs (21–30)
This Is HalloweenMarilyn Manson
As the definitive Halloween movie, The Nightmare Before Christmas features a soundtrack song that could be called the anthem for Halloween lovers everywhere: “This Is Halloween.” The artist who crafted a cover that completely transformed the track into his own is none other than Marilyn Manson.
His version is included on Disc 2 of the 2006 release The Nightmare Before Christmas: Original Soundtrack Special Edition, and its perfect fit surely delighted fans on both sides.
Since Marilyn Manson as a band has a strong affinity with Halloween to begin with, if this song was your introduction to them, be sure to check out their original tracks as well.
BernadetteIAMX
I Am X is the solo project of Chris Corner.
With a musical style that spans synth-pop and dark cabaret, it may not be widely known, but it’s highly acclaimed by a devoted core of enthusiasts.
Among his works, the perfect party track is “Bernadette.” Its deeply dark, gothic atmosphere pairs perfectly with the eerie vibe of Halloween, doesn’t it?
DemonsImagine Dragons
When it comes to Imagine Dragons, they’re a popular band that has continued churning out hits around the world—not just in their home country of the United States—since their album debut in 2012.
Their hallmark is genre-defying music and emotional melodies, which may not immediately seem to connect with Halloween.
However, the song introduced here is a great recommendation for those who want something a little different for the holiday.
It’s a classic with an anthemic melody, and when it was released as a single in 2013, it became a hit, reaching No.
6 on the U.S.
charts.
The “devil” mentioned here should be taken as a metaphor, and the lyrics reflect the band’s views on religion and more.
While it’s not exactly a party anthem, you might find it deeply resonant if you listen to it quietly on your own after enjoying the Halloween festivities.
SuperstitionStevie Wonder
This song was released in 1972 by Stevie Wonder.
It’s one of his hit songs, singing about the dangers of believing in superstition.
It was used in the 2003 Disney film The Haunted Mansion.
The song has been famously covered by artists such as Jeff Beck.
Spooky Scary SkeletonsAndrew Gold
The song by California-born American singer-songwriter Andrew Gold is perfect for livening up a Halloween party.
Included on his 1996 album “Halloween Howls: Fun & Scary Music,” the track depicts eerie skeletons appearing at night to startle people.
With its catchy melody and humorous lyrics, it also gained popularity as an internet meme starting in the 2010s.
It has been widely used on TikTok and YouTube, making it familiar to a new generation as well.
As an iconic Halloween tune enjoyed by both kids and adults, it’s become an indispensable track for background music at costume parties and events.
Look What You Made DoTaylor Swift
This provocative and powerful track is sure to hype up any Halloween party! Symbolizing Taylor Swift’s transformation, the song is defined by its pounding beat and repetitive phrases.
Released in August 2017, it became a massive hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for three consecutive weeks.
As the lead single from the album Reputation, its music video set a record with 43.2 million views in 24 hours.
Perfect for anyone who wants to craft a persona at a costume party or channel a hint of rebellious energy.
GhostbustersRay Parker Jr.
It’s a track released as a single in 1984 by Ray Parker Jr.
It served as the theme song for the movie of the same name starring Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd, and was nominated for an Academy Award.
It became a worldwide hit and was certified Platinum in Canada and France.
When it’s Halloween, it’s ghosts—and when it’s ghosts, it’s this.