[2026] A roundup of popular and recommended Halloween songs for YouTube Shorts
These days, more and more people are using YouTube Shorts to find reference videos for Halloween makeup and cosplay.
That naturally raises interest in the Halloween-perfect tracks used as BGM in those videos.
From upbeat, catchy tunes to slightly eerie, atmospheric ones, there are actually tons of hugely popular songs hidden in YouTube Shorts.
In this article, we’ll introduce recommended music for the Halloween season used in Shorts—across both Western and Japanese songs and various genres.
We’re also featuring the latest Halloween tracks, so you’re sure to find a song that will boost your Halloween vibe.
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[2026] Top 1–10 Popular and Recommended Halloween Songs for YouTube Shorts
OtonokeCreepy Nuts
An addictive track that brilliantly fuses hip-hop with the supernatural.
Created by the duo Creepy Nuts—DJ Matsunaga and R-Shitei—it was released in October 2024.
Written specifically as the opening theme for the TV anime “Dandadan,” it sparked a huge reaction, even reaching No.
1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.
The piece expresses the idea of music possessing people through the concept of a “sound apparition.” The lyrics are peppered with words that hint at characters from horror films and playful references to various works, making it incredibly satisfying to listen to.
Its driving beat and relentless rap bathe Halloween night in a cool, mysterious vibe.
This Is HalloweenDanny Elfman
It’s the quintessential Halloween anthem, a classic among classics.
The moment this song starts, you can’t help but feel like a resident of a spooky yet delightful Halloween Town.
Composed by film-music maestro Danny Elfman, it’s the iconic opener to the film The Nightmare Before Christmas, released in October 1993.
The festive flair with which it proudly sings about the town’s charms—monsters under the bed, pumpkins screaming at midnight—is something special.
Its popularity hasn’t faded a bit, charting as high as No.
14 on the UK singles chart in November 2023.
If you’re going to enjoy Halloween, it’s no exaggeration to say you have to start with this song.
HALLOWEEN PARTYHALLOWEEN JUNKY ORCHESTRA
Have you heard of HALLOWEEN JUNKY ORCHESTRA, the special band that performs only around Halloween, led by HYDE, the vocalist of L’Arc~en~Ciel? It’s a track created by a star-studded lineup from Japan’s rock scene.
The piece is captivating for its world that blends a festive mood with a dark atmosphere, as if you’ve wandered into a grand parade of monsters.
It portrays a fun night of ghosts begging for treats, and the diverse relay of vocals vividly brings that lively scene to life.
Released in October 2012, the song sold over 100,000 copies and was later used as the theme song for the film “Poupelle of Chimney Town.” Use it as BGM for Halloween makeup or cosplay videos, and it’s sure to boost the party vibe!
Happy HalloweenJunky ft. Kagamine Rin
When Halloween season rolls around, there are probably people who can’t help wanting to listen to this.
It’s a song by the Vocaloid producer Junky, also known for the hit “Melancholic,” released in October 2014.
The track was written specifically for a FamilyMart campaign.
It’s a dance tune with a spooky, Halloween-like vibe blended with a poppy, cute feel, which pairs perfectly with Kagamine Rin’s adorable vocals.
The lyrics are packed with the thrill of pretending to be ghosts and partying until morning—just listening is sure to lift your spirits! It’s said there’s a hidden trick embedded in the lyrics as well… The chorus is catchy and sticks in your head, the kind you’ll find yourself humming out of the blue.
Why not get some sweets ready and listen in a party mood?
ThrillerMichael Jackson
Perhaps the most famous Halloween song in the world.
It’s an immortal masterpiece in music history by the King of Pop, Michael Jackson.
Set to vibrant disco-funk, the track tells a thrilling story of trying to protect a loved one from encroaching terror.
It opens with creaking doors and thunder, and concludes with a narration by legendary horror actor Vincent Price, making it feel like a short film.
It’s the title track of the classic 1982 album Thriller, which won a record-breaking eight awards at the 1984 Grammys.
The short-film-style music video became a cultural phenomenon and is now indispensable as background music for Halloween costumes and dance videos.
Put it on at a party and get everyone dancing—there’s no doubt it’ll bring the house down!