Dive into the world of Halloween guitar songs with our top 50 picks, ideal for any eerie event you have planned!
This carefully curated list of ghoulishly delightful tunes is accompanied by tutorials for each song, ensuring a smooth learning experience.
Get ready to channel your inner rock star and spook your audience with these spine-chilling melodies.
If you want to take a deeper dive into Halloween songs with a songbook, check out:
And if you are looking for a Spotify playlist of these songs, we’ve got it for you:
1. Thriller (Michael Jackson)
Thriller (Michael Jackson) guitar tab
“Thriller” is a song by the American singer Michael Jackson.
It was released by Epic Records in the UK on November 5, 1983, and in the US on January 23, 1984, as the seventh and final single from his sixth studio album, Thriller.
“Thriller” is a funk song featuring a repeating synthesizer bassline and lyrics evoking horror films, with sound effects such as thunder, creaking doors, and wolf howls.
It ends with a spoken-word sequence performed by the horror actor Vincent Price.
It was produced by Quincy Jones and written by Rod Temperton, who wanted to write a theatrical song to suit Jackson’s love of film.
2. Ghostbusters (Ray Parker Jr.)
Ghostbusters (Ray Parker Jr.) guitar tab
“Ghostbusters” is a song written by Ray Parker Jr. as the theme to the film of the same name, and included on the film’s soundtrack.
Debuting at number 68 on June 16, 1984, the song peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on August 11, staying there for three weeks (Parker Jr.’s only number one on that chart), and at No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart on September 16, staying there for three weeks.
The song reentered the UK Top 75 on November 2, 2008 at No. 49 and again on November 5, 2021, at No. 38. (Wikipedia)
3. Monster Mash (Bobby “Boris” Pickett)
Monster Mash (Bobby “Boris” Pickett) guitar tab
The “Monster Mash” track climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart on October 20-27 during its release year, making it an instant Halloween hit.
Since then, this iconic tune has become a staple among Halloween guitar songs.
Remarkably, even after almost six decades, “Monster Mash” resurfaced on the Billboard Hot 100 chart at number 37 in 2021, showcasing its enduring appeal as a Halloween favorite.
4. This is Halloween from The Nightmare Before Christmas
This is Halloween from The Nightmare Before Christmas guitar tab
Prepare to embrace the spooky spirit with one of the most well-known Halloween guitar songs, “This Is Halloween,” written by Danny Elfman and featured in the 1993 film The Nightmare Before Christmas.
The listener is immersed in the Halloween-centric way of life as the inventive “Halloween Town” residents belt this track.
This amazing music sets the tone for a spine-chilling adventure.
If you want to give something to your kids on Halloween, check out this book, The Nightmare Before Christmas.
5. Highway to Hell (AC/DC)
Highway to Hell (AC/DC) guitar tab
The title and lyrics reflect the arduous nature of touring constantly and life on the road.
The highway that inspired the title, Canning Highway, connects the Perth Kwinana freeway to its port Fremantle and was home to many of Bon Scott’s favourite pubs and hotels, including the Raffles Hotel. (Wikipedia)
Unleash your inner rock star with this hard-hitting, devilish track.
6. Black Magic Woman (Santana)
Black Magic Woman (Santana) guitar tab
“Black Magic Woman” wasn’t originally penned by Carlos Santana.
The credit for writing this bewitching tune goes to Peter Green, one of the founding members of Fleetwood Mac.
First released by Fleetwood Mac in 1968, the song climbed to #37 on the U.K. charts.
Fast forward to 1970, and Santana decided to cover this magical track for his album, Abraxas.
His rendition soared to #4 in both the U.S. and Canada, solidifying it as a classic.
7. Psycho Killer (Talking Heads)
Psycho Killer (Talking Heads) guitar tab
“Psycho Killer” is a song by the American band Talking Heads, released on their 1977 debut album Talking Heads: 77.
The group first performed it as the Artistics in 1974. (source: Wikipedia)
Influenced by the character Norman Bates from Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic film Psycho, Weymouth’s lyrics reflect a dual personality theme.
Further, Byrne’s striking staccato vocal delivery further emphasizes this, which mirrors Bates’ distrust of women he considered immoral.
With its chilling lyrics and catchy rhythm, this new wave hit will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
8. Somebody’s Watching Me (Rockwell)
Somebody’s Watching Me (Rockwell) guitar tab
“Someone’s Watching Me” is a track performed by American vocalist Rockwell and was unveiled by Motown Records in 1984 as the premiere single from his inaugural studio album, which shares the song’s title.
The tune is enhanced by the contributions of the Jackson brothers, with Michael providing the chorus and Jermaine adding extra backing vocals.
9. Werewolves of London (Warren Zevon)
Werewolves of London (Warren Zevon) guitar tab
“Werewolves of London” is a rock song performed by American singer-songwriter Warren Zevon.
It was composed by Zevon, LeRoy Marinell and Waddy Wachtel and was included on Excitable Boy (1978), Zevon’s third solo album.
The track featured Fleetwood Mac’s Mick Fleetwood and John McVie on drums and bass respectively.
The single was released by Asylum Records and was a top 40 US hit, the only one of Zevon’s career, reaching No. 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 that May. (Wikipedia)
A howling good time, this classic rock song will have everyone tapping their feet and joining the chorus.
10. (Don’t Fear) The Reaper (Blue Öyster Cult)
(Don’t Fear) The Reaper (Blue Öyster Cult) guitar tab
(Don’t Fear) The Reaper is a captivating tune by the renowned American rock group Blue Öyster Cult, featured on their 1976 album, Agents of Fortune.
The song’s creation and vocals are credited to the band’s skilled lead guitarist, Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser, who explores the themes of everlasting love and the inescapable nature of mortality.
Interestingly, the inspiration for this song came from Dharma as he contemplated the possibility of an untimely demise.
This timeless rock anthem is perfect for setting a mysterious and eerie mood at your Halloween event.
11. Witchy Woman (Eagles)
Witchy Woman (Eagles) guitar tab
“Witchy Woman,” written in 1972, has an unusual tale. In a 2016 interview with Rolling Stone, Henley said that the mysterious woman featured in the song is a mash-up of two women: Zelda Fitzgerald and another unknown lady.
Henley was inspired to integrate Zelda Fitzgerald into the lyrics after reading her biography, which highlighted her struggles with schizophrenia.
Enchant your audience with this classic rock song about a bewitching, magical woman.
12. I Put a Spell on You (Screamin’ Jay Hawkins)
I Put a Spell on You (Screamin’ Jay Hawkins) guitar tab
“I Put a Spell on You” is a 1956 song written and composed by Jalacy “Screamin’ Jay” Hawkins, whose own recording of it was selected as one of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll.
It was also included in Robert Christgau’s “Basic Record Library” of 1950s and 1960s recordings—published in Christgau’s Record Guide: Rock Albums of the Seventies (1981) —and ranked No. 313 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
The selection became a classic cult song covered by a variety of artists and was his greatest commercial success, reportedly surpassing a million copies in sales, even though it failed to make the Billboard pop or R&B charts. (Wikipedia)
This bluesy, haunting song will have your audience entranced by your guitar prowess.
13. Zombie (The Cranberries)
Zombie (The Cranberries) guitar tab
A Bold Stand Against Violence: The Cranberries’ “Zombie” and Its Place Among Halloween Guitar Songs.
After a heartbreaking IRA attack took the lives of two young children, The Cranberries were inspired to write “Zombie,” a powerful song confronting violence and challenging the mindset of extremists with the memorable question, “What’s in your head?”
Amid the realm of Halloween guitar songs, “Zombie” distinguishes itself not only as a haunting tune but also as a testament to the power of music as an agent for social awareness and change.
One of my favorites.
It brings a touch of ’90s nostalgia to your Halloween performance with this politically-charged alternative rock song.
14. Bad Moon Rising (Creedence Clearwater Revival)
Bad Moon Rising (Creedence Clearwater Revival) guitar tab
“Bad Moon Rising” is a song written by John Fogerty and performed by Creedence Clearwater Revival.
It was the lead single from their album Green River and was released on April 16, 1969 four months before the album.
The song peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on 28 June 1969 and reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart for three weeks in September of that year (see 1969 in music).
It was CCR’s second gold single. (Wikipedia)
With its ominous lyrics and catchy melody, this song is perfect for a night of frightful fun.
15. Enter Sandman (Metallica)
Enter Sandman (Metallica) guitar tab
During the spring of 1991, Hetfield introduced “Enter Sandman” to the band, featuring lyrics inspired by an unlikely subject – crib death.
The Metallica frontman described the song’s theme in 2007 as the Sandman taking an infant’s life, ultimately causing devastation within the family.
This unexpected topic adds a chilling element to the Halloween guitar songs repertoire, making it a fitting addition for those seeking to create the perfect spooky playlist.
Unleash your inner metalhead with this sinister, heavy track that will get heads banging.
Are you a fan of Metallica? Check out this book about the remarkable history of one of rock n’ roll’s most notable group.
16. Sympathy for the Devil (The Rolling Stones)
Sympathy for the Devil (The Rolling Stones) guitar tab
“Sympathy for the Devil,” a captivating track by the renowned English rock band, The Rolling Stones, sets the stage for their 1968 album, Beggars Banquet.
This compelling song results from the creative collaboration between Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.
The lyrics touch on several significant historical events, such as the crucifixion of Christ, the Russian Revolution, World War II, and the Kennedy assassination.
Intriguingly, Robert Kennedy’s assassination occurred on June 5, 1968, after Mick Jagger had begun crafting this song.
17. Welcome to My Nightmare (Alice Cooper)
Welcome to My Nightmare (Alice Cooper) guitar tab
Welcome to My Nightmare is the debut solo album by American rock musician Alice Cooper, released on March 11, 1975.
It is his only album for the Atlantic Records label in North America; in the rest of the world, it was released on the ABC subsidiary Anchor Records (also his only album for that label).
Welcome to My Nightmare is a concept album.
Played in sequence, the songs from a journey through the nightmares of a child named Steven. The album inspired the Alice Cooper: The Nightmare TV special, a worldwide concert tour in 1975, and his Welcome to My Nightmare concert film in 1976.
The ensuing tour was one of the most over-the-top excursions of that era.
Most of Lou Reed’s band joined Cooper for this record. (Wikipedia)
Immerse your audience in a world of horror with this theatrically macabre song.
18. Dead Man’s Party (Oingo Boingo)
Dead Man’s Party (Oingo Boingo) guitar tab
Even though the lyrics of Oingo Boingo’s popular “Dead Man’s Party” perfectly suit the spooky season, the song gained prominence in June 1986 – a whole year after its release – when it appeared in the comedic film Back to School.
Get everyone dancing and singing along with this upbeat ’80s hit that’s perfect for a Halloween celebration.
19. The Number of the Beast (Iron Maiden)
![【IRON MAIDEN】[ The Number Of The Beast ] cover by Masuka | LESSON | GUITAR TAB](https://studentofguitar.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FnptW0Nd2Ssw%2F0.jpg)
The Number of the Beast (Iron Maiden) guitar tab
Influenced by the chilling 1978 film Damien: Omen II, which revolves around a 13-year-old Antichrist, Iron Maiden’s bassist Steve Harris penned this Halloween guitar song.
Harris clarifies that the track’s theme is centered on a nightmare rather than devil worship, adding a spine-tingling element to the collection of Halloween guitar songs.
Bring the power of heavy metal to your Halloween event with this spine-tingling classic.
20. Creep (Radiohead)
Initially released in 1992, “Creep” struggled to receive airplay due to its melancholy nature, which made it an unlikely hit.
However, this moody track has become one of the most well-known Halloween guitar songs.
The original version includes the F-word, deemed inappropriate for the BBC.
The band recorded an alternate version to address this issue, cleverly replacing the offending word with “very.”
This adaptation allowed the song to reach a wider audience and solidify its status as a haunting Halloween guitar classic.
21. Hells Bells (AC/DC)
Hells Bells (AC/DC) guitar tab
Hells Bells” is the first track of Back in Black, the seventh studio album by Australian hard rock band AC/DC and their comeback album after the death of lead singer Bon Scott.
It is the second single from Back in Black, released on 31 October 1980.
The song also appears on Who Made Who, AC/DC’s 1986 soundtrack to the Stephen King film Maximum Overdrive and on both versions of 1992’s AC/DC Live. (Wikipedia)
Another iconic rock song from AC/DC.
The phrase “Hell’s Bells” often expresses astonishment, yet within this song’s framework, it evokes visions of the netherworld and the sensation of stirring up chaos – a characteristic often attributed to Bon Scott.
22. Living Dead Girl (Rob Zombie)
I think the “Living Dead Girl” delves into the world of a captivating woman who harbors a fascination for all things macabre.
With a passion for horror and the morbid, she explores the realm of the deceased and immerses herself in their chilling presence.
23. Superstition (Stevie Wonder)
Superstition (Stevie Wonder) guitar tab
“Superstition” is a song by American singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder.
It was released on October 24, 1972, as the lead single from his fifteenth studio album, Talking Book (1972), by Tamla.
The lyrics describe popular superstitions and their negative effects. (Wikipedia)
Add a touch of funky, spine-tingling rhythm to your Halloween event with this iconic track from Stevie Wonder.
24. The Addams Family Theme (Vic Mizzy)
The Addams Family Theme (Vic Mizzy) guitar tab
The Addams Family Values: A Perfect Blend of Dark Humor and Halloween Vibes.
As if a clever spider has been spinning its intricate web in a long-forgotten haunted mansion, The Addams Family Values is a Halloween movie classic that has been a part of the spooky holiday for ages.
Vic Mizzy, the talented composer behind The Addams Family Theme, masterfully crafted this iconic tune that is forever linked to the film.
25. Dragula (Rob Zombie)
Dragula (Rob Zombie) guitar tab
“Dragula” is a song and debut single co-written and recorded by American rock musician Rob Zombie.
It was released in August 1998 as the lead single from his solo debut Hellbilly Deluxe.
Since its release it has become Zombie’s most recognizable song as a solo artist. It is also his best-selling song, and had sold over 717,000 copies in the U.S. by 2010.
The song is based on the drag racer “DRAG-U-LA” from the sitcom The Munsters.
The audio clip “superstition, fear and jealousy” heard at the beginning of the song is a sample of dialogue from the 1960 horror film The City of the Dead (also known as Horror Hotel), and is spoken by Christopher Lee. (Wikipedia)
Dive into the world of horror with this heavy and energetic track from the king of macabre rock.
26. Pet Sematary (Ramones)
Pet Sematary (Ramones) guitar tab
Pet Sematary” is a single by American punk rock band Ramones, from their 1989 album Brain Drain.
The song, originally written for the Stephen King 1989 film adaptation of the same name, became one of the Ramones’ biggest radio hits and was a staple of their concerts during the 1990s.
The song plays over the film’s credits. (Wikipedia)
This punk rock song is perfect for adding a touch of horror to your set.
27. Love Potion No. 9 (The Clovers)
Love Potion No. 9 (The Clovers) guitar chords
This tune narrates the story of a man searching for love who turns to a gypsy for assistance.
Through palm reading, the gypsy prescribes “love potion number nine,” a powerful aphrodisiac.
Under the potion’s influence, the man becomes enamored with everything in sight, indiscriminately bestowing kisses.
His amorous spree culminates in an encounter with a policeman on a street corner, who responds by shattering the man’s love potion bottle.
Cast a spell on your audience with this catchy, bewitching classic that will have everyone singing along.
28. Runnin’ with the Devil (Van Halen)
Runnin’ with the Devil (Van Halen) guitar tab
“Runnin’ with the Devil” is often seen as a reflection of life on the road for a young touring band, making it a fitting addition to Halloween guitar songs playlists.
The verses delve into personal experiences, revealing that a seemingly uncomplicated lifestyle may be more complex than initially thought.
The phrase “Runnin’ with the devil” is typically understood as an allusion to the pursuit of freedom.
Add some hard-rocking flair to your Halloween performance with this devilishly good Van Halen hit.
29. Season of the Witch (Donovan)
Season of the Witch (Donovan) guitar tab
This track accompanies a crucial moment in George Romero’s 1973 movie, Season of the Witch, which follows the story of a traditional Catholic woman as she becomes entangled in the popular occult scene of the ’70s.
Bring a psychedelic, haunting atmosphere to your set with this eerie, hypnotic tune.
30. The Time Warp (from The Rocky Horror Picture Show)
The Time Warp (from The Rocky Horror Picture Show) guitar tab
“Time Warp” is a song featured in the 1973 rock musical The Rocky Horror Show, its 1975 film adaptation The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and a 2016 TV production.
The name is also used for the dance performed during the chorus of the song.
The song is both an example and a parody of the dance song genre, with much of the lyrics consisting of dance step instructions.
This dance is one of the major audience-participation activities during screenings of the film and performances of the show.
It has become a popular song beyond the reaches of the film and show, and is often played at dances and weddings. (Wikipedia)
Get everyone dancing with this cult classic that’s perfect for a Halloween sing-along.
Ensure a lively atmosphere by adding this song to your Halloween guitar songs that transform into a classic cult sing-along – get everyone to dance on their feet.
31. In The End (Black Veil Brides)
In The End (Black Veil Brides) guitar tab
After the passing of Black Veil Brides’ lead vocalist Andy Biersack’s grandfather, he wrote this song.
In an interview with Kerrang! Magazine, Biersack shared that he had a close relationship with his grandfather, often visiting him after school to talk.
During his grandfather’s funeral, the discussions around his grandfather’s passing and entering heaven prompted Biersack to reflect on his own thoughts about heaven. (Songfacts)
32. The Killing Moon (Echo & the Bunnymen)
The Killing Moon (Echo & the Bunnymen) guitar tab
“The Killing Moon” is a song by the band Echo & the Bunnymen.
It was released on 20 January 1984 as the lead single from their 1984 album, Ocean Rain.
It is one of the band’s highest-charting hits, reaching number 9 in the UK Singles Chart, and often cited as the band’s greatest song.
Ian McCulloch has said: “When I sing ‘The Killing Moon’, I know there isn’t a band in the world who’s got a song anywhere near that.”
In a retrospective review of the song, Allmusic journalist Stewart Mason wrote: “The smart use of strings amplifies the elegance of the tune, bringing both a musical richness and a sense of quiet dignity to the tune. (Wikipedia)
33. The Munsters Theme (Jack Marshall)
The Munsters Theme (Jack Marshall) guitar tab
The theme song for the American TV series ‘The Munsters’ graced CBS from September 24, 1964, to May 12, 1966, and earned a prestigious Grammy Award nomination in 1965.
Add some retro horror flair to your set with this iconic and playful theme song.
34. Vampires (Godsmack)
Vampires (Godsmack) guitar tab
“Vampires” is a song by American rock band Godsmack.
It appeared as the ninth track on the band’s second studio album, Awake, in 2000. “Vampires” is a spoken word song with some dialogue from a television show named Mysterious Forces Beyond.
The song received a Grammy nomination for “Best Rock Instrumental” in 2001. (Wikipedia)
This intense, ominous track excels at infusing a menacing and potent energy into your Halloween performance.
35. Halloween (Misfits)
Halloween (Misfits) guitar tab
When Glenn Danzig was the lead vocalist for Misfits, he penned the song “Halloween,” which delved into the holiday’s darker aspects.
Halloween, celebrated every October 31st, sees children donning costumes and trick-or-treating while many adults also dress up.
Being the undisputed champions of horror punk in 1981, it was practically a requirement for the Misfits to compose a Halloween-themed track.
Over the decades, this release has persisted as a popular choice on costume party playlists.
Immerse yourself in the punk essence of Halloween guitar songs with this energetic, horror-inspired track.
36. The Ghost of You (My Chemical Romance)
The Ghost of You (My Chemical Romance) guitar tab
This song deals with the fear of losing someone.
It is not to be interpreted about just losing one special person. According to the band, the whole album is about losing people. (Songfacts)
37. Monster (Skillet)
“Monster” is a powerful hard rock song by Skillet, featured as the second track on their 2009 album Awake.
This track proved a major success for the American Christian rock band, reaching No. 4 on the U.S. Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and No. 1 on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100 chart.
A radio edit of the song, which omits the growling section, is available on the album’s deluxe version.
It also stands out as Skillet’s fifth physical media single release.
The dark and intense energy of the song adds to its eerie and haunting tone, making it an ideal addition to any Halloween guitar songs.
38. The Phantom of the Opera (Andrew Lloyd Webber)
The Phantom of the Opera (Andrew Lloyd Webber) guitar tab
Drawing inspiration from Gaston Leroux’s 1910 novel, The Phantom of the Opera narrates the story of a facially disfigured musical prodigy who dwells in the depths of the Paris Opera House.
Enchanted by the captivating voice and charm of the youthful soprano Christine, the Phantom takes her under his wing and develops an intense, passionate love for her.
Bring a touch of theatrical drama to your performance with this iconic, haunting melody.
39. Ghost Town (The Specials)
Ghost Town (The Specials) guitar tab
“Ghost Town” is a song by the British two-tone band the Specials, released on 12 June 1981.
The song spent three weeks at number one and 11 weeks in total in the top 40 of the UK Singles Chart.
Evoking themes of urban decay, deindustrialisation, unemployment and violence in inner cities, the song is remembered for being a hit at the same time as riots were occurring in British cities.
Internal tensions within the band were also coming to a head when the single was being recorded, resulting in the song being the last single recorded by the original seven members of the group before splitting up.
However, the song was hailed by the contemporary UK music press as a major piece of popular social commentary, and all three of the major UK music magazines of the time awarded “Ghost Town” the accolade of “Single of the Year” for 1981.
It was the 12th-best-selling single in the UK in 1981. (Wikipedia)
Infuse your set with some eerie, ska-infused energy with this spooky hit from The Specials.
40. Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) [David Bowie]
Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) [David Bowie] guitar tab
“Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps)” is a captivating tune by the renowned English singer-songwriter David Bowie.
The song was the title track for his 1980 album Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) and was released as the third single in January 1981.
Following the release of two earlier singles from the same album, “Ashes to Ashes” in August 1980 and “Fashion” in October of that year, critics Roy Carr and Charles Shaar Murray from NME described its release as an example of the time-honored tradition of maximizing an album’s potential.
Bowie went on to perform “Scary Monsters (And Super Creeps)” during several of his tours.
Channel your inner Bowie and captivate your audience with this delightfully weird and haunting tune.
41. Iron Man (Black Sabbath)
Iron Man (Black Sabbath) guitar tab
The words were crafted by bassist and lyricist Geezer Butler, and they narrate the tale of a man who journeys ahead in time and bears witness to the apocalypse.
Upon returning to his present time, a magnetic force transforms the man into a metallic form.
He is met with dismissal and derision despite his attempts to forewarn the human race.
42. The Devil in I (Slipknot)
![【SLIPKNOT】[ The Devil in I ] cover by Masuka | LESSON | GUITAR TAB](https://studentofguitar.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2F3LACp3nkbW8%2F0.jpg)
The Devil in I (Slipknot) guitar tab
In an interview with The Pulse of Radio, Taylor provided insight into the song’s message, revealing that “The Devil In I” tackles the internal battle we face within ourselves.
He emphasized the importance of not succumbing to negative thoughts and defeatism, as overcoming our inner demons can be challenging.
Ultimately, the song highlights the ongoing struggle to maintain a positive mindset and not give up on adversity. (Songfacts)
43. Casper the Friendly Ghost Theme
Casper the Friendly Ghost Theme guitar chords
Casper the Friendly Ghost is the main character in the well-known animated series by Famous Studios, bearing the same title.
This friendly, transparent ghost is characterized by his warm and friendly nature, although he faces frequent disapproval from his three mischievous uncles, known as the Ghostly Trio.
Add a touch of childhood nostalgia to your set with this whimsical and memorable theme song.
44. Bark at the Moon (Ozzy Osbourne)
Bark at the Moon (Ozzy Osbourne) guitar tab
Bark at the Moon, the third studio album by the famous English heavy metal singer Ozzy Osbourne, debuted in November 1983.
This album signifies a significant shift in Ozzy’s musical style, incorporating a fusion of synth-laden pop-metal elements.
This transformation is evident in the album’s overall sound production and Ozzy’s personal image and presentation.
Embrace the wild side of Halloween with this howling track from the Prince of Darkness himself.
45. Tubular Bells (The Exorcist Theme) [Mike Oldfield]
Tubular Bells (The Exorcist Theme) [Mike Oldfield] guitar tab
Virgin Records’ first release, Tubular Bells, the inaugural studio album by British musician Mike Oldfield, hit the shelves on May 25, 1973.
The album features two primarily instrumental tracks, with a 19-year-old Oldfield showcasing his talent by playing nearly all the instruments.
Although initial sales were modest, Tubular Bells caught global attention in December 1973 when the opening theme was selected as the soundtrack for the chilling horror film, The Exorcist.
This connection sparked a sales boom that bolstered Oldfield’s career and contributed significantly to the Virgin Group’s expansion.
From March 1974, the album remained in the UK Albums Chart’s top ten for an entire year, even holding the number one spot for a week.
It also climbed to number three on the US Billboard 200 and topped the charts in Canada and Australia.
With over 2.7 million copies sold in the UK and an estimated 15 million copies worldwide, Tubular Bells continues to resonate with audiences.
Recreate the haunting atmosphere of The Exorcist with this chilling instrumental piece.
46. Voodoo Child (Jimi Hendrix)
Voodoo Child (Jimi Hendrix) guitar tab
“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” stands as the closing track on the iconic 1968 album Electric Ladyland, brought to life by the legendary Jimi Hendrix Experience.
This captivating song features Hendrix’s masterful guitar improvisations and distinctive vocals, accompanied by the solid rhythms of Noel Redding on bass and Mitch Mitchell behind the drums.
Channel your inner Jimi Hendrix and captivate your audience with this legendary guitar anthem.
47. Feed My Frankenstein (Alice Cooper)
Feed My Frankenstein (Alice Cooper) guitar tab
“Feed My Frankenstein” is a song originally written and originally by British hard rock band Zodiac Mindwarp and the Love Reaction for their album Hoodlum Thunder.
American singer Alice Cooper covered it on his 19th solo studio album, Hey Stoopid, and released it as a single in May 1992.
Its highest chart position as a single was number 27 in the UK. Cooper gained a co-writer credit for his version due to different lyrics from the original. (Wikipedia)
A wickedly fun track, perfect for those who love both Halloween and theatrical rock.
48. Black Sabbath (Black Sabbath)
Black Sabbath (Black Sabbath) guitar tab
This song eventually inspired the band’s name.
While performing in clubs across Germany under the name “Earth,” they discovered another group with the same name.
“Black Sabbath” was borrowed from the title of a 1963 horror film starring Boris Karloff and directed by Italian filmmaker Mario Bava.
The band’s frontman, Ozzy Osbourne, and bassist, Geezer Butler, had watched the movie and chose to compose a song bearing that title.
As the need for a new name emerged, they embraced this song title as their own, rebranding themselves as “Black Sabbath.”
49. Frankenstein (The Edgar Winter Group)
Frankenstein (The Edgar Winter Group) guitar tab
“Frankenstein,” a captivating instrumental by the Edgar Winter Group, can be found on their 1972 album titled They Only Come Out at Night.
This remarkable song climbed to the peak of the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, where it reigned for a week in May 1973 before being dethroned by Paul McCartney’s “My Love.”
With over a million copies sold, “Frankenstein” remains noteworthy in the band’s history.
50. Heads Will Roll (Yeah Yeah Yeahs)
Heads Will Roll (Yeah Yeah Yeahs) guitar tab
Heads Will Roll” is a song by American indie rock band Yeah Yeah Yeahs, released as the second single from their third studio album, It’s Blitz! (2009). The CD and 7-inch singles were released in the United Kingdom on June 29, 2009.
The song is sung from the viewpoint of the Queen of Hearts in Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. (Wikipedia)
Mastering the Spooky Techniques Behind Halloween Guitar Songs
As you work through these top 50 Halloween guitar songs, you’ll notice many use specific techniques to create that eerie, haunting atmosphere we all love.
To truly captivate your audience and make these tunes shine, it’s helpful to understand some of these techniques.
Let’s dive into some common methods to elevate your Halloween guitar performance.
Minor Scales and Chords
The foundation of many Halloween guitar songs is minor scales and chords.
They naturally evoke a sense of darkness and melancholy, perfect for setting the spooky mood.
Tremolo Picking
This rapid-fire picking technique can create a sense of urgency and tension, adding to the overall eeriness of a song.
Slides and Bends
Slides and bends can give your Halloween guitar songs a creepy, unsettling feeling as they mimic the sound of something lurking just out of sight.
Dissonance
Intentionally using dissonant intervals and chords can create an unsettling and spooky atmosphere, making your audience feel slightly on edge.
Palm Muting
Palm muting can add a sense of mystery and suspense to your Halloween guitar songs, giving them a darker, more ominous vibe.
Fingerpicking and Arpeggios
For slower, more haunting tunes, fingerpicking and arpeggios can add an eerie and ethereal quality perfect for setting a chilling mood.
Guitar Effects
Feel free to experiment with different guitar effects, like reverb, delay, and distortion, to create otherworldly sounds that will spook your audience.
By incorporating these techniques and mastering the top 50 Halloween guitar songs, you’ll be well on your way to becoming the ultimate Halloween guitarist.
Closing Notes on Halloween Guitar Songs – Unleashing Your Spooky Spirit
Armed with the ultimate list of 50 Halloween guitar songs and the skills to bring them to life, it’s time to pick up your guitar and get to work.
Whether rocking out at a Halloween party or serenading a small gathering of friends, these chilling tunes should make your performance memorable.
Remember that the secret to a great performance lies not just in the songs you choose but also in your execution and style.
Did I miss a song that should be added?
Let me know in the comments!
And if you enjoyed this listicle, you might also enjoy our acoustic guitar love songs list.
