Songs for Hip Halloween Party

With all the Halloween party CDs available these days, spooky music isn't hard to come by. But why waste your time with a cookie-cutter soundtrack for your Halloween Party when there are many great, original songs you can play this Halloween? I've taken a lot of time in choosing the top 10 songs that will add an element of hipness to your Halloween party, so be sure to check them out!

Thriller by Michael Jackson
Remember the king of pop the way he'd want, by rocking out to Thriller this Halloween.This 1980's hit will get the ghouls and boys at your Halloween party dancing in no time. Plus, your party would not be nearly as hip without this essential Halloween song.

Science Fiction-Double Feature by Richard O'Brien
This opening song from the Rocky Horror Picture Show has a sweet slow dance vibe for your Halloween party. O'Brien's high voice mixed with 50's style back-up vocals gives the song a creepy, dreamlike sound. The singer reflects on the science fiction movies of long ago that inspired Halloween costumes for years to come. It's also a nice change from the typical Rocky Horror selection, Time Warp.

Freaks Come Out at Night by Whodini
If you have any break-dancers at your party, they are sure to get their freak on to this music. Freaks Come Out at Night is an old school rap song and the title says it all.

I Put a Spell on You by Screamin' Jay Hawkins
There are many versions of this spooky song, but nothing beats Screamin' Jay Hawkins' version. In I Put a Spell on You, Hawkins alternates between haunting laughter and harrowing screaming, creating an unforgettable sound. His passion will send chills up your spine. It's the perfect Halloween music for your party playlist.

Matinee Idol by Rufus Wainwright
The throbbing piano, brassy horns and Rufus's bright voice give this music selection a playful Halloween feel. Written to honor the passing of River Phoenix, the song tells the story of the death of a matinee movie star. Rufus captures a magical, funereal feeling for your Halloween party playlist.

Season of the Witch by Donovan
One of my favorite Donovan songs, Season of the Witch will be stuck in your guest's head long after your party is over... and it's about witches. This music, from the 1960's, will also add a hip classic rock twist to your Halloween party playlist.

Pirate Jenny by Nina Simone
Nina Simone's deep voice often lends her music a dark feeling. Pirate Jenny is no exception. Simone weaves a dark web with her tale of Pirate Jenny, a maid at a local hotel-who turns out to be anything but. Her screeching, angry voice will capture your Halloween Party guests' attention just in time for her cold, whispered tale of murder to capture their imagination.

Man with the Hex by the Atomic Fireballs
After Pirate Jenny's chilling declaration, "That'll learn ya," your guests may want to lighten the mood a bit. It's the perfect time to play Man with the Hex by the Atomic Fireballs. This upbeat, swing revival song will have your Halloween party guests jumping and jiving in no time.

Nightmare on My Street by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince
Freddy Krueger makes a late night visit to the Fresh Prince, but it's really just a dream... right? Another throwback to the early days of rap, this song will have your Halloween party guests laughing while they dance. Nightmare on My Street is an essential part of any hip Halloween playlist.

Werewolf by Cat Power
If the couples at your party are looking for some quite time, put on Werewolf by Cat Power. This slow song will give them something romantic to dance to, without sacrificing the Halloween feeling. Power's soft, slow, sad sound casts a spell, making it the perfect addition to your Halloween song playlist.