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October is objectively the best month of the year. Halloween is approaching, it’s finally cooling down and a sense of enthusiasm for autumn is in the air. It’s a time to dress up, party and be creative.
Last year, everyone was locked up for the most fun holiday of all time. There were no costumes, haunted houses, spooky parties or chances to let off steam. This year, we can fully embrace the spooky season in all its glory. This playlist is composed of magical classics, songs that fill you up with witchy urges and eerie suspicions — those songs that inexplicably feel like fall. This October, embrace the darkness with some of the best autumnal music out there.
“Dark Lady” by Cher
Not only is Cher an icon in every sense of the word, but she’s also the queen of '70s witchy music. “Dark Lady” is perhaps one of the best witch songs of all time, warning against an evil seer who steals the husbands of unsuspecting women. It’s high-energy, unique and just makes you want to dance around in a pointy hat.
“Witches” by Alice Phoebe Lou
“Witches” is a kooky tune combining an electric blues feel with a low-fi indie style. It’s a fun, upbeat song about embracing your inner witchy urges. If there’s any time to forget about what other people think and be your weird self — it’s Halloween.
“Highwomen” by The Highwomen
The Highwomen is a country group made up of singer-songwriters Maren Morris, Brandi Carlile, Natalie Hemby and Amanda Shires. Their music is a great combo of old-school country sounds and a refreshing exploration of women’s experiences. “Highwomen” is undoubtedly one of their best songs and has a mystical woodsy flair that makes it perfect for October.
“Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac
An absolute classic — and a reminder that autumn is always the best time to revisit Fleetwood Mac. “Dreams” is perfectly representative of Fleetwood Mac’s magical signature sound.
“Sorcerer” by Stevie Nicks
Similar to Cher, Stevie Nicks has a talent for awakening a deep witch-like power in all of us. Songs like “Edge of Seventeen,” “Gypsy” and “Bella Donna” definitely prove this, but “Sorcerer” takes the lead. If you need to get amped up to feel hot and destroy your enemies, then this song is for you.
“You’re Dead” by Norma Tanega
A sharp and menacing but somehow still folksy and fun song — “You’re Dead” is an absolute must-listen for this time of year.
“Movies” by Weyes Blood
Weyes Blood is a more modern artist than most of the others on this list, but her beautiful melodies and thoughtful lyrics make her stand out. “Movies” is a psychedelic rock song that feels completely unique and transcendent. Its futuristic, slow-verb and slightly creepy sound makes it perfect for the soundtrack of any horror movie.
“My Silver Lining” by First Aid Kit
Another modern choice — First Aid Kit is an incredible folk-Americana duo. “My Silver Lining” is a longing song about life’s tough choices. Additionally, the effective use of strings creates a beautiful haunting sound behind their voices throughout the song.
“Strange Magic” by Electric Light Orchestra
“Strange Magic'' is a groovy funk-rock song about the mysteries of love. It has a distinctly '70s vibe and almost puts you in a trance-like state while listening to it — and there’s nothing more magical than that.
“Last Words of a Shooting Star” by Mitski
“Last Words of a Shooting Star” is an eerie song filled with metaphors and lamentations about heartbreak. The quiet, woodsy wind sounds in the background make this song feel simultaneously chilling and comforting.
“These Boots are Made for Walking” by Nancy Sinatra
Truly no song will make you feel more powerful than this. A '60s tale of a scorned woman out for revenge will get you in the perfect, slightly sinister mood for spooky season.
“Me and Bobby McGee” by Janis Joplin
“Me and Bobby McGee” is a comforting tune with a southern flair. It’s a great story song that has a wholesome Bonnie and Clyde vibe and is perfect for a warm night-in.
“Gypsies, Tramps And Thieves” by Cher
Another great story song, and another great song for October by Cher. “Gypsies, Tramps And Thieves” details the topsy-turvy life of performers on the road and delightfully combines Cher’s distinct voice and well-placed sound effects that bring back memories of old Halloween movies.
“Rebel Rebel” by David Bowie
An outlier in this list, but an amazing song all the same. “Rebel Rebel” is a classic Bowie rock song about nonconformity. Bowie’s style combined with it’s message make this song perfect for the weirdest holiday of the year.
“Crystal” by Stevie Nicks
This song is so perfect for Halloween that it was used in the "Practical Magic" soundtrack. A great song with that signature Stevie Nicks magic is perfect for reflecting on a foggy dramatic evening.
“My Girlfriend is a Witch” by October Country
There’s a lot of fear of witches — and subsequently women — in folklore throughout history. This song makes that fear fun. “My Girlfriend is a Witch'' is a funky cautionary tale with a trademark '60s folksy sound.
“Spooky (Single Version)” by Dusty Springfield
“Spooky” is a classic song about an off-beat love story. It has wonderfully haunting drums and guitar and is the perfect choice for when you’re craving a throwback.
“I am a Witch” by Twin Temple
Twin Temple is a musical duo known for their horror camp aesthetic, and “I am a Witch” is one of their best songs. It’s a spooky tune about female sensuality and power, perfect to set the tone for long October walks or drives.
“Monster Mash” by Bobby “Boris” Pickett
Closing this list with non-stop fun. If you want to throw an awesome retro Halloween party, there’s really no better option than this to begin your playlist.
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