7 Easy Halloween Guitar Songs
If you’re looking to bring a bit of musical fright to your Halloween night, you’re in the right place!
Halloween is all about the spooky vibes, and what better way to get into the spirit than by learning some easy, eerie guitar songs?
Before we get into the songs, let’s understand what makes a song ‘Halloween-y’.
Halloween music often brings an eerie, mysterious, or spooky vibe. It’s usually characterized by minor keys, haunting melodies, and atmospheric sounds, which evoke feelings of suspense and unease. It’s about creating a mood that complements the ghosts, witches, and goblins roaming around on Halloween night.
1. “Monster Mash” by Bobby Pickett
About the Song:
“Monster Mash” by Bobby Pickett is a Halloween staple! Released in 1962, this catchy and humorous tune narrates a story about a mad scientist whose monster rises from the slab and performs a new dance, the “Monster Mash.”
Playing Tips:
This song is relatively straightforward, utilizing chords like E, A, and B7. Focus on maintaining a bouncy, upbeat strumming pattern to keep the fun, playful vibe of the song alive. Don’t forget to emphasize the comedic, spooky narration as you play!
2. “Ghostbusters” Theme by Ray Parker Jr.
About the Song:
Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters! This iconic theme song from the 1984 movie “Ghostbusters” by Ray Parker Jr. is instantly recognizable and a perfect Halloween tune.
Playing Tips:
This funky tune primarily revolves around the B and F# chords. Keep your strumming rhythmic and groovy. Pay attention to the catchy chorus and try to replicate the upbeat, funky feel of the original track as you strum along.
3. “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Öyster Cult
About the Song:
“(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Öyster Cult, released in 1976, is a classic rock song with a haunting melody and mysterious lyrics about love and eternal life, making it a fitting addition to your Halloween playlist.
Playing Tips:
The song is characterized by its haunting riff, so focus on mastering that. The chords are not too complex, mainly involving A, G, F#m, and E. Pay attention to the dynamics and the flow of the song, maintaining a steady, haunting vibe throughout.
4. “This Is Halloween” from The Nightmare Before Christmas
About the Song:
“This Is Halloween” is the opening song from the 1993 film “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” composed by Danny Elfman. It’s a spooky, atmospheric tune that perfectly captures the Halloween spirit.
Playing Tips:
This song involves a variety of chords, including Dm, A, A7, G, and Bb. It’s rich in dynamics and tempo changes, so pay close attention to the rhythm and try to capture the eerie, whimsical vibe of the song with your strumming and dynamics.
5. “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
About the Song:
While not explicitly a Halloween song, “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival has that ominous feel, with lyrics that hint at impending doom, making it a suitable tune for a night of frights.
Playing Tips:
This song mainly involves D, A, and G chords and features a catchy, upbeat rhythm. Keep your strumming lively and emphasize the catchy melody and ominous lyrics as you play.
6. “Somebody’s Watching Me” by Rockwell
About the Song:
“Somebody’s Watching Me” by Rockwell is a classic 80s tune known for its paranoid lyrics and creepy, atmospheric sounds, making it a great addition to your Halloween repertoire.
Playing Tips:
Focus on the Em and A chords and maintain a steady, suspenseful rhythm throughout the song. The chorus is particularly catchy, so try to replicate the eerie, haunted feel of the original as you play and sing along.
7. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson
About the Song:
No Halloween playlist is complete without “Thriller” by Michael Jackson! This iconic song, released in 1982, is famed for its creepy sound effects, spooky music video, and Vincent Price’s haunting narration.
Playing Tips:
The chords for “Thriller” include D#m, F#, A#m, and B. The iconic bassline is crucial, so try to emphasize it in your playing. Pay attention to the dramatic pauses and the creepy, atmospheric sound effects as you recreate this spooky classic.
When playing these Halloween tunes, remember, it’s all about creating a spooky atmosphere. Play around with dynamics, tempo, and rhythm to make the songs feel more haunting. Experiment with different strumming or picking patterns to see what sounds spookiest to you. And most importantly, have fun with it!