4 Iconic Halloween Songs That Have Eternally Shaped Pop Culture
Halloween is almost here, and nothing defines Halloween like the perfect Halloween song. We each have our favorites, and with so many delightful ones to choose from, it’s difficult to pick only one. Not surprisingly, many have become massive hits. Not only are they Halloween staples, but they are global staples as a whole. With that being said, here are four iconic Halloween songs that have eternally shaped pop culture.
Monster Mash (1962)
Co-written and performed by Boris “Bobby” Pickett, the “Monster Mash” was released as a single in August 1962 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. The week of Halloween in October 1962, the hit single peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
Pickett created the song as a spoof of popular dance crazes like the Mashed Potato, incorporating his signature Boris Karloff impersonation and humorous horror-themed lyrics. The track features sound effects like a coffin opening and a bubbling cauldron, while narrating a mad scientist’s party where monsters perform the titular dance.
The song’s success led to the release of the full-length album The Original Monster Mash (1962), which included additional monster-themed tracks and spin-offs. Despite initial bans by the BBC for being “too morbid,” the song has prevailed, re-entering the Billboard Hot 100 in 2021. As of 2023, it has generated $1 million annually in royalties. Pickett’s performance, including impersonations of Peter Lorre and Bela Lugosi, also helped define the song’s enduring appeal.
Thriller (1983)
Of course, no Halloween song list would be complete without the iconic and record-breaking “Thriller”. Written by Rod Temperton, produced by Quincy Jones, and brilliantly performed by the King of Pop, “Thriller” is pure bliss. Released on November 11, 1983, the massive hit features a repeating synthesizer bassline. The song’s lyrics describe a night of terror, with imagery of a monster, zombies, and a supernatural chase. The song was complete with an eerie outro perfectly narrated by Vincent Price.
Directed by John Landis, the music video is a jaw-dropping, nearly 14-minute-long short film. It depicts Jackson transforming into a zombie and dancing with a group of fellow zombies. The video’s elite choreography, created by Jackson and Michael Peters, along with Jackson’s red “Thriller” jacket, has undeniably defined Halloween. Ultimately, both have become enduring symbols of pop culture.
Released on December 2, 1983, the Thriller music video transformed music videos into a serious art form. While breaking down racial barriers, the video also helped boost the sales of the Thriller album, which became the best-selling album in history. The video’s success also led to the documentary, Making Michael Jackson’s Thriller, which sold over a million copies. To this day, it is regarded as the greatest music video of all time.
Somebody’s Watching Me (1983)
Released in December 1983, “Somebody’s Watching Me” was written and performed by Rockwell. With its catchy hook brilliantly delivered by Michael Jackson, the upbeat song became a major international hit. With its synth-pop vibe, the song’s lyrics convey a sense of paranoia and the feeling of being constantly watched. This theme was reinforced by its music video, which depicts Rockwell experiencing multiple horror-inspired visions.
Peaking at number two on the US Billboard Hot 100, the song also reached number one on the US Hot Black Singles chart. Additionally, it topped the charts in several countries, including Belgium, France, and Spain. It was certified Gold in the United States, and also received Gold certifications in the United Kingdom, Canada, and New Zealand. As the son of Motown founder Berry Gordy, it’s no surprise that Rockwell knew how to create a classic. As a result, “Somebody’s Watching Me” remains a cultural touchstone, frequently used in a multitude of Halloween playlists.
Ghostbusters (1984)
“Who you gonna call?” Was everyone’s favorite question in October of 1984, and the answer couldn’t have been more obvious: “Ghostbusters”! As a result, no one would dare think of Halloween without mentioning Ray Parker Jr.
Known for his pioneering guitar skills, Parker further honed his artistry as a studio musician. During this time, he contributed to recordings by artists such as Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder.
Written specifically for the film, “Ghostbusters” became the Detroit native’s most iconic work, debuting at number 68 on the Billboard Hot 100. By August 11, 1984, the song peaked at number one, where it remained for three weeks. It also reached number one on the US Hot Black Singles chart. Additionally, it was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
In 1985, “Ghostbusters” also earned Parker a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance. The Ivan Reitman-directed music video featured cameos by various celebrities, including Chevy Chase, John Candy, and Danny DeVito. The video concluded with Parker and the film’s main cast dancing in New York City.
The song’s success added $20 million to the film’s box-office gross. It also experienced chart reentries in the UK in 2008 and 2021. To date, the song has been certified Platinum in the United States, the United Kingdom, and France.
It’s obvious that these songs just seem to get better each time that we hear them. No matter how old they are, these classic hits will always be the reason to happily anticipate spooky season.
