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Horror Workout Playlist

Horror Workout Playlist

Whether you lift weights, cycle, or run for your life, this Horror Workout Playlist will help you scare those extra pounds away. These songs will make you want to get moving and push yourself a little further. You’ll be able to fit into that sexy Halloween costume in no time!

The Song List

Many horror workout playlists just include regular Halloween music. With this playlist I sought to compile a few more out-of-the-box additions. Each song has a pumpkin – I mean – pumping beat and keeps me motivated throughout my workout. The songs include some classics, remixes, and new jams.

Listen to the Playlist on YouTube.

Playlist Song Explanations

1. "Sunglasses at Night" - Corey Hart

What better way to start a workout than to imagine yourself in the wonderful world of the 80’s. With all its bright colors and iconic workout sportswear, I think of those cheesy 80’s workout videos each time I start my routine. 

While “I Wear My Sunglasses at Night” isn’t explicitly tied to horror, I can’t help but think about the 80’s vampire flicks which featured vampires in sunglasses. Think that iconic poster of The Lost Boys, Robert Sean Leonard in My Best Friend is a Vampire, and Lauren Hutton in Once Bitten. For some reason I associate this song so much with vampires, I was shocked when I found that it hadn’t been used in mainstream horror media until much more recently (Nope, Scream Queens, Stranger things). 

2. "Calling All the Monsters" - China Anne McClain

I first heard this song via a streaming service Halloween mix and loved its high-energy electropop sound. It was surprising to learn that it was sung by a young girl and from a Disney Channel tv series, A.N.T. Farm. The series stars China Anne McClain as an 11-year-old musical prodigy who is a member in the Advanced Natural Talent (A.N.T.) program, a program that allows gifted middle school students to go immediately to high school. The song is from the series’ Halloween episode, taking place in an alternate reality filled with monsters.

3. "You Make Me Feel Like It's Halloween" - Muse

This dance rock/synth pop song will get your blood pumping on this horror workout playlist. While the song is actually about an abusive relationship, the lyrics directly reference Halloween:

“When you turn out the lights
You make me feel like it’s Halloween (Halloween)
It’s Halloween (Halloween)
When you skulk ’round the house
You make me feel like it’s Halloween (Halloween)
It’s Halloween (Halloween)”

The music video features masked figures trapped in a haunted house. It references popular horror films like The Shining and It

4. "Keepin' Halloween Alive" - Alice Cooper

With a career spanning over 60 years, Alice Cooper has drawn from horror movies, vaudeville, and garage rock to create a macabre and theatrical brand of rock. His “Welcome to My Nightmare” is a Halloween classic and his song list contains many other horror/Halloween-inspired fare. He has also appeared in a number of horror movies: Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare, Spooks & Creeps, and Dark Shadows – among others.

Released in 2009, “Keepin’ Halloween Alive” is Coopers love letter to Halloween. 

“I’m keepin’ Halloween alive, baby 3-6-5
I keep it goin’, I keep it goin’
I’ve kept Halloween alive since 1965
I keep it goin’, I keep it goin’
I’ll keep my Jack-O-Lantern light on for everyone tonight”

5. "Got My Scream On" - China Anne McClain

Apparently, I need to renew my subscription to Disney+, because this A.N.T Farm series has some phenomenal music. This song comes from the second Halloween-themed episode of the series, “mutANT Farm 2”. I want to get up and dance each time I hear it!

6. "Scream MV" - Dreamcatcher

If you only listen to English music, you are missing out at a treasure-trove of horror-themed media. “Scream” is the second track of Dreamcatcher’s first studio album, “Dystopia: The Tree Of Language”. The music video is packed full of witchy and magical imagery and the lyrics tell a story based on the witch hunts of the Middle Ages.

I love the epic chorus about screaming. The strong female vocals are quite empowering.

7. "Twilight Zone" - 2 Unlimited

Let’s take this playlist “back to back to another dimension” with this 1992 jam from Belgian/Dutch Eurodance act 2 Unlimited. The Twilight Zone tv series (and 1983 film) is one of the best horror/sci-fi anthologies out there. Although the song is not officially tied to it, as a fan there is no way I can ignore the implicit connection.

8. "Skeleton Sam" - LVCRFT

Now that the previous song got us to “shake our bones”, let’s continue with this Halloween anthem by LVCFT. Celebrating the ultimate Halloween mascot, Skeleton Sam, this song blends hip-hop, pop, and dance to create quite the catchy tune. 

I would also be remiss not to congratulate ScareLA alum, Lucas Acosta (DP/Director/Editor) and Philip Hernandez (Producer), on the stylish music video. 

9. "The Phantom of the Opera" - Harajuku

While looking for tracks to add for my Peloton cycling playlist, a friend recommended this remix of the classic horror musical song. While I am not usually much of a fan of techno, it is hard to deny that this song very much lends itself to this type of beat. This certainly feels like a traditional workout mix and works well when you need a steady cycling song.

10. "Grim Grinning Ghosts" - Glenn Gatsby & Ashley Slater

Electro swing always gets me dancing. I love the blend of old-school swing with modern beats. This song covers one of the greatest Disney theme park songs of all time, Grim Grinning Ghosts. The Haunted Mansion is the quintessential dark ride for Halloween & horror fans. This song takes me back to where I can find the happiest haunts on Earth – and distracts me from my sore muscles during a run!  

11. "Resurrection" - LVCRFT

When I need a power song to lift me up and empower me to take control of my workout, this song is it. Strong female vocals and a message of rising up from the ashes push me to do my best.

“I’ll rise up from the wreckage
I am resurrected
Try me, I’m electric
You can’t kill this vibe”

12. "Ghosts & Monsters" - Saint Chaos

Thank goodness I heard this song before seeing the cheesy music video. Otherwise, I may not have cared to add it to this playlist. While the music video is… well, terrible – the song is quite catchy and fun to work out to. I love the lyrics about a haunted house and feeling creeped out while being along. Quite relatable! 

13. "What's New Scooby Doo" - Simple Plan

We are at the end of our 13 track horror workout playlist. To finish, here is one of the greatest animated tv show theme songs of all time. I was fortunate enough to hear Simple Plan perform this live at the “When We Were Young” music festival in 2024. The band even had a slew of backup dancers dressed as Scooby Doo take over the stage. The entire audience was jumping and dancing along. This song will give you the final boost to finish your workout strong.

And That's the Horror Workout Playlist!

I hope you enjoyed the playlist and got a productive workout in. What songs are on your horror workout playlist? Let me know on Instagram @EmilyIsHorror

Check out more music and playlists here.

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Entertainment Music

Summerween Spooks Playlist

Summerween Spooks Playlist

It’s time for hot nights and chilling frights with this Summerween Spooks playlist! Whether you are spending the day carving watermelon jack-o-lanterns on the beach or howling at the moon at night, this playlist has you covered. It has a fun mix of classic beach vibes and modern alternative rock for spooky summer atmosphere.

The Song List

Halloween and horror are year-round passions for many people. I have been thrilled in the recent rise of “Summerween” celebrations, bringing spooky fun to the summer season. The term “Summerween” comes from a 2012 episode in the Disney cartoon series Gravity Falls. In the show, Summerween was a summertime celebration of Halloween with costumes, parties, and “jack-o-melons”. A year later, ScareLA brought summertime Halloween fun to SoCal. Now, many conventions and fan events continue its legacy.

Every season has its own unique spooky vibes. For this playlist I wanted to find songs that evoke feelings of sunny days, lounging, and bonfire nights with friends – all with a spooky or creepy twist, of course. So, grab some ice scream and enjoy a hot ghoul summer with this Summerween Spooks playlist.

Listen to the playlist on YouTube.

The Playlist

1. Surfin' Dead - The Cramps

You square brains out there better beware! Let’s start this playlist with a piece that has both summer beach vibes and thematically appropriate lyrics. Originally recorded as a one-off track for the film The Return of the Living Dead (1985), Surfin’ Dead is zombie-themed punk rockabilly at its best. 

The Cramps are known for their horror-themed songs. I first discovered them as a child via my Elvira’s Haunted Hits CD, which included their song, I Was a Teenage Werewolf. Recently, a new generation has come to know them as their song, Goo Goo Muck, was used in the iconic dance scene from Netflix’s hit series, Wednesday

2. Skuuly Gully - Bobby "Boris" Pickett and The Crypt-Kickers

Our boo-tiful day at the beach continues with this silly song from Bobby “Boris” Pickett and The Crypt-Kickers. Pickett is best known for his Halloween classic, The Monster Mash, but his other parody monster songs are also quite fun. After a few bars of this tune, you will want to join the vampires, zombies, and werewolves in their quicky Skully Gully dance.

3. I was a Teenage Monster - The Keytones

This song makes me think of 1950’s & 60’s B-horror movies at the drive-in. Teenagers were always the target of some horrific fate in these campy classics. The song’s upbeat melody is a perfect background for your barbeque or beach party. I especially love the operatic “aah-ah-ah-ah-ah-aaah” of the female vocals when they mention the teenage angel. 

“I was a teenage monster
Until I met a teenage angle
She took her lips and mixed them with mine
And up in smoke went old Frankenstein”

4. Haunted House - Sam the Sham and the Pharaohs

While most people are a little more familiar with the version of this song from Jumpin’ Gene Simmons (released in the same year – 1964), I think that this version from Sam the Sham and The Pharaohs is best for this playlist. With a slightly longer runtime, this song has a brief guitar rift section that gives it a more surf vibe. I also enjoy the ghostly laughter and campy nature. 

5. Jekyll and Hyde - Jim Burgett

1961’s Jekyll and Hyde by Jim Burgett continues the jukebox rock sound of this playlist. I like that it focuses on the underutilized horror figure(s) of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. I can certainly relate to a duality of personality! I may seem sweet, but I am a horror at heart. 

“Oh, I’m going steady with Mary Lou
She’s so sweet and our love is true
But every night when we kiss goodnight
The minute I get out of her sight…
Suddenly the devil in me starts to rage
And it’s the wild kind of lovin’ is what I crave!”

6. Goose Bumps - The Slippers

Grab your sweetheart and boogie to this modern rendition of a classic song. I love that this one is subtle enough with its lyrics to appeal to both normal individuals and those who need a dash of spookiness to everything. 

“Oo-ma-la-baby, you give me goose bumps
‘Cause you thrill me baby, goose bumps
How you chill me honey, goose bumps
When we kiss, I never had nobody make me feel like this”

7. Devil on my Shoulder - Kim Lenz & Her Jaquars

Kim Lenz is a modern rockabilly queen, updating a classic rock n’ roll sound for audiences of the late 20th/early 21st centuries. (You can learn more about her from this article from The Rockabilly Chronicle).

This song fits perfectly with the other upbeat tunes on this list. While it is not specifically a Halloween-inspired song, the “Devil on my Shoulder” lyrics make it another song that can appeal to both horror fans and general audiences. I love to cast a wide net with these playlists to include music not typically heard on strict horror/Halloween playlists. Sometimes lyrics with the appropriate iconography are enough.

8. The House is Haunted - The Phantom Chords

The House is Haunted was originally written in 1934 by Billy Rose with lyrics by Basil Adlam. It was first released by Paul Whiteman with the Park Avenue Boys that same year. Over the years it has been covered by a multitude of artists, but one of my favorite versions is this one by The Phantom Chords, a 1990’s British rock band.

This version takes the melancholy big band sound of the original and adds a swinging twist. While the lyrics are sorrowful, you can’t help but want to dance to the beat.

9. With Monsters and Gods - The Hillbilly Moon Explosion

The sun has set on our Summerween Spooks playlist and things are about to get a little darker. “With Monsters and Gods” by The Hillbilly Moon Explosion provides a sultry backdrop to your evening. I love the poetic lyrics at the end of the chorus:

“So here I am
A ghost in your dreams
While the moon rises
I’m your Halloween”

10. Dark Secret - Matthew Sweet

“We are the weirdos, mister.”

Sometimes a song becomes forever intertwined with a certain movie. That is the case for this classic. “Dark Secret” by Matthew Sweet was released in 1996 as part of the soundtrack for The Craft. It is hard to listen to this without thinking of the four young witches on the beach, casting their spells. You gotta love that theremin in the background as well. 

11. Dark Shadows - The Quakes

Time for a little hometown pride with this one. The Quakes formed in the fall of 1986 in Buffalo, New York. “Dark Shadows” comes from their 2012 album, “Planet Obscure”. Dubbed “psychobilly”, this musical style is a little more punk and aggressive than the standard rockabilly style found earlier in the playlist. 

12. Graveyard's Full - The Growlers

“Graveyard’s Full” by The Growlers not only fits perfectly with this playlist due to its beachy vibes and mentioning of an iconic horror locale (graveyard), but it also carries an eco-friendly message – which should be important to us all. Summer is all about spending time outdoors and enjoying nature. This song reminds us that humans are constantly overusing Earth’s resources and taking more than we give. Maybe we should all be a little more mindful of our overconsumption before we end up starring in a horror movie of our own making.

13. One Foot in the Grave - The Creepshow

Let’s end this playlist strong with a rocking psychobilly hit from the Canadian punk rock band The Creepshow. This song makes me think of hot rods and summer night street races down in SoCal. Let this song’s electrifying energy and pulsing beat empower you to continue your Summerween revelries all night long!

And That's the Summmerween Spooks Playlist!

Did you like it? What songs are on your Summerween playlist? Let me know on Instagram @EmilyIsHorror

Want more Summerween tunes? Listen to my Summer Screams playlist.

Check out more music and playlists here.

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Music

Howl at the Moon Playlist

Howl at the Moon Playlist

No full moon is quite as titillating as a full moon in October.  Its bright glow illuminates all the ghosts and goblins roaming the night – and it entices even the shyest of werewolves to join the autumnal festivities. This Howl at the Moon Playlist is my love letter to this October moon – and the perfect way to add some spooky spirit to any full moon throughout the year!

The Song List

Werewolves are my favorite monsters. They represent duality of the soul – calm and collected by day and a wild release by the light of the moon. Give me the passion of a wolf over the calm and brooding demeanor of a vampire any day!

Ever since high school I have had quite the collection of wolf-related songs. My senior year I directed my high school’s fall play, The Werewolf’s Curse – or Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow. It told the tale of Harry Pate, an American student in Romania who is bitten by a werewolf cub. During the full moon, Harry sprouts hair and craves rare roast beef, much to the dismay of his vegetarian fiancée. So it’s off to Dr. Frank Einstein’s castle to consult Madam Clara Voyant, where the doctor decides to make Harry a full fledged werewolf. To set the mood before the show and to use during bows, I created a curated soundtrack using only songs featuring lycanthrope lyrics. 

This Howl at the Moon playlist is an updated version with some new music to delight more modern audiences. 

Playlist Song Explanations

Let’s get this playlist started with a dark and edgy cover of the classic Creedence Clearwater Revival song. While the original has a fun and upbeat style, this version has a more goth edge. Singer Peter Dreimanis (of the band July Talk) lends a gritty, almost growling vocal tone to the piece. He sounds like quite a proper werewolf!

2. Wolfsbane - Gein & The Graverobbers

Even a man who is pure in heart and says his prayers by night, may become a wolf when the wolfbane blooms and the autumn moon is bright.

Gein and the Graverobbers’ Songs in the Key of Evil was my first experience with modern horror surfer rock, having picked up the CD at a record store solely based on the cover and band name. Their songs from this album all feature audio or riffs from classic horror movies and television. Wolfsbane features audio from 1941’s Universal Monster classic, The Wolf Man. Poor Larry Talbot could not escape the curse of the werewolf – might we meet a similar fate?

As mentioned earlier. Werewolves embody unbridled passion. I was a Teenage Werewolf by The Cramps captures that sexy desire through pulsing drums, a sharp electric guitar riff, and howling vocals. One can’t help but to feel empowered by this classic punk rock anthem. It is my go-to song when I want to feel sexy and confident. 

Wolves are not just horror icons, they are also featured in some of the earliest fairy tales. Oh Land’s Wolf & I embodies this fantastic side of wolf tales with the fairy-tale like lyrics and melody. The catchy refrain will stick in your head long after the moon disappears beyond the horizon.

Continuing a sultry vibe is Wolves on Parade by Mr. Moonshine. The lyrics invoke a feeling of a tortured soul:

“I need you to leave,
I want you to stay,
I won’t chase you,
Anymore, anymore, anymore”

Let’s also take a moment to appreciate the fantastic music video by artist Michelle Prebich. Her red robed plague doctors, wolves, and ravens are beautiful horror figures and the forest background is a haunting setting. Be sure to check out her Etsy shop, Bat in Your Belfry, to purchase a print or two for your horror art collection.

Ice Nine Kills takes inspiration from horror classics for the lyrics to their rock songs. Love Bites is their love letter to An American Werewolf in London. This is a touching duet for horror-loving lovers. Sing along and howl at the moon.

My Honey-bunny has been my own personal werewolf ever since he starred in my high school play (The Werewolf’s Curse – Or Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow). Therefore, I let him pick one song on this Howl at the Moon Playlist. Wolves & Werewolves is his contribution. He likes this Canadian garage rock duo’s blend of rock and blues. 

This silly Halloween classic was based on an old horror movie of the same name. Phil Everly (of the Everly Brothers) joked with Warren Zevon that they should adapt the title into a song & dance craze. Zevon, Everly, and Waddy Wachtel wrote the lyrics in about 15 minutes and didn’t take the song very seriously. After a few other musicians heard the song and played it live for their own concerts, Zevon finally recorded his own version – which went on to be a top 40 hit for over a month and lives on via Halloween playlists to this day!

Never one for subtlety and an affinity for literal translations, there was no better song for the curtain call of my fall play than Clap for the Wolfman

This song is an homage to on-air radio disc-jockey Wolfman Jack, who can be heard several times on this classic hit. 

Finishing out this trio of classic wolf-themed songs, is Hungry Like the Wolf. You’ll be dancing in the moonlight to this 1980’s hit. The bridge is the perfect soundtrack to a werewolf transformation. The heavy breathing and building background music can easily make one image the full moon appearing from behind the clouds and a cursed soul turning from man into  musical monster.

Me or you, one of us is going to need to die

Me and Mr. Wolf showcases The Real Tuesday Weld’s signature jazzy and upbeat style. Mr. Wolf seems to have met his match in this swinging duet. 

This is another fantastic animated music video. Artist George Fort’s animated noir masterpiece takes inspiration Fleischer Studios cartoons (such as Betty Boop, Popeye, etc.).

Although the original Li’l Red Riding Hood by Sam The Sham & The Pharaohs is a classic, I enjoy this modern take. I first heard it on the surprisingly awesome Cursed soundtrack. Wag your tails and howl along with this rockin’ hit!

Full Moon Tonight serves as a fitting finale to our full moon-themed playlist. It celebrates not only werewolves but all the ghosts, goblins, and creatures of the night that revel in the full moon’s glow. Keep this energy and playful spirit with you the entire night!

As with any good horror movie, there is always one last post-credits scene, so here is one bonus song for our playlist. This rare Elvira track was my favorite song growing up (although I didn’t fully understand the lyrics until I was nearly a teenager). Elvira schools us on the roots of the word moon and all the lunar hazards one may face as the full moon rises in the night sky – all with her iconic brand of sexy humor:

“Could it be the story of.. oh! Or just my time of the month? I don’t know!”

And with that, it is really time to say “pleasant nightmares” boys and ghouls. 

And That's the Howl at the Moon Playlist!

Did you like it? What is on your full moon soundtrack? Let me know on Instagram and Twitter @EmilyIsHorror

Want more terrifying tunes for keep your spooky groove going?  Check out more music and playlists here.

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Music

Summer Screams Playlist 2021

Summer Screams Playlist 2021

Sweating in the 90+ degree heat this summer? You can still get some spooky chills while working on your tan with this Summer Screams Playlist 2021 edition. I have compiled thirteen groovy 1950’s & 60’s-inspired tunes perfect for your Summerween beach or pool party. Carve a watermelon, grab a cool apple cider, and keep the Halloween vibes going from June – August!

The Song List

The Halloween season never truly ends in my home. My friends and family have come to expect all manner of spooky additions to celebrations year round. The summer months are no different. Just as retro dresses are the hip Halloween fashion as of late, the 1950’s & 60’s surfer rock also blends wonderfully with Halloween & horror themes. These would be a perfect pairing for a 1950’s horror and sci-fi movie night – perhaps The Blob or I Was a Teenage Werewolf

Playlist Song Explanations

Season of the Witch was originally written and performed by Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan and released in September 1966. It has been covered by many artists over the years but my favorite cover is this version by Karen Elson. Although the song is appropriate all year long, I have always associated it with long summer days and people watching out my front window near the Niagara River (where I grew up). 

Before I was ready for more modern and mature horror, my Dad introduced me to the best of the classic b-horror films. The 1950’s had so many fun horror and sci-fi flicks featuring teenage teeny-boppers, creatures from outer space, and beach parties galore. There is only one of these films that ever terrified me as a child – The Blob (1958). Something about a monster from outer space that could not be reasoned with or defeated gave me chills. As my Dad loves to share with all my friends, co-workers, and random strangers at social functions, I told him when I was six years-old, “Dad – the Wolfman, Dracula, all those monsters aren’t real, but the Blob is from outer space and we don’t know what could be out there!”

The Blob premiered at a time when original theme songs were all the range. Burt Bacharach and Mack David wrote the song & lyrics. It is now a staple for Halloween playlists and Summerween celebrations.

3. The Twilight Zone - The Ventures

Open the door to your imagination and come with me to a dimension of sound, a dimension of sight, a dimension of mind. Let’s move into a land of both shadow and substance, of things and ideas. While listening to this playlist, we’ve crossed over into The Twilight Zone. Even without lyrics, this groovy instrumental sets the mood for a spooky summer soiree. 

4. Out of Limits - The Marketts

Out of Limits by the Marketts is another take on the Twilight Zone vibe. Written in 1963 by Michael Z. Gordon, this surf rock classic has been included on many Halloween playlists and compilations over the years.  I first heard this song as part of the Elvira’s Haunted Hits CD and fell in love with the beachy instrumental vibe. 

5. The Crypt Keeper's Holiday - Gein & The Graverobbers

Gein and the Graverobbers’ Songs in the Key of Evil was my first experience with modern horror surfer rock, having picked up the CD at a record store solely based on the cover and band name. Their songs from this album all feature audio or riffs from classic horror movies and television. The Crypt Keeper’s Holiday puts a new spin on the opening theme from the popular series Tales from the Crypt.

I can completely relate to the girl this song is about! My Honey-Bunny certainly knows that the way to my heart is through scary movies. 

Of course, it’s not just me. There has been much research into why we love to be scared and how it can create close bonds. Sociologist, Dr. Margee Kerr, is one of the most prominent researchers on the subject (read her books, they are fantastic). As she says in this article from The Atlantic

One of the reasons people love Halloween is because it produces strong emotional responses, and those responses work to build stronger relationships and memories... We’re social and emotional beings. We need each other in times of stress, so the fact that our bodies have evolved to make sure we feel close to those we are with when afraid makes sense. So yes, take your date to a haunted house or for a ride on a roller coaster; it’ll be a night you’ll never forget.

7. Cemetary Beach - Messer Chups

This creepy surf rock hit comes from a very unlikely place – Russia! The group was formed in  St. Petersburg, Russia in in 1998 by composer and guitarist Oleg “Gitaracula” Fomchenkov. Their music pays homage to classic horror and the surf rock vibes of the 1950’s and 60’s.

While no Halloween dance can quite live up to the perfection that is the Time Warp, some performers have tried to create their own spooky steps. The Munster Creep may not be well-known, but it is a fun dance celebrating Frankenstein’s monster. Shake things up at your Summerween celebration by teaching your guests this hip dance.

Put out your arms like a Frankenstin(‘s monster), stomp around the room and have a real good time! 

Igor is apparently one party-loving dude. Aside from being mentioned playing the chains  in the Halloween party staple, Monster Mash, Igor’s Party is an entire song dedicated to the lab assistant’s love for rock-and-roll. Frankenstein’s castle is apparently the place to go for a spooky swinging soiree!

10. Lullaby of the Leaves - The Ventures

The Ventures are groovy enough to be mentioned twice on this list. Lullaby of the Leaves is a jazz standard originally written in 1932 by composer Bernice Petkere and lyricist Joe Young.  The lyrics (although not used in this instrumental version of the song) tell of a beautiful night under a leafy canopy. Changing leaves are a staple in Autumn and Halloween iconography, so I included this tune in our Summer Screams Playlist. Even on warm summer nights, I certainly long for a cool breeze blowing through red and orange leaves on the treetops. 

11. Horror Movies - Dickie Goodman

Produced two years after Batman, Wolfman, Frankenstein, or Dracula by The Diamonds, this song deals with the same theme – loving a girl who loves horror. I think my poor Honey-Bunny can certainly relate to the lyrics for this one!

12. Back to the Dark - Mystic Braves

Unlike the previous songs, this one is a little less on-the-nose with the Halloween in summer theme. It is not a Halloween song, but the groovy melody and  twangy guitar fit with the mood of the playlist.

I love the chorus lyrics “So come with me into my world… Don’t throw our love away and go back to the dark”. They inspire me to think of all sorts of spooky stories to tell around a summer barbeque pit.

13. Spooky Luau Beach Party - The Trolls

Since I only have one more chance on this list to be corny and without restraint, I am ending this playlist with a silly atmospheric track of a haunted luau. I like the background groans and moans. Oh the sweet sounds of zombies, ghouls, and black cats as I float in the pool!

And That's the Summer Screams Playlist 2021!

Did you like it? What songs are on your Summerween playlist? Let me know on Instagram and Twitter @EmilyIsHorror

Don’t have someone special to share the day with? Check out more music and playlists here.

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Categories
Music

Valentine’s Day 2021 Playlist

Valentine’s Day 2021 Playlist

While most people celebrate Valentine’s Day with rom-coms and pink hearts, those of us with an affinity for horror & Halloween do things a little different. Instead of Jack and Rose, we prefer Jack and Sally – and the power couple of Gomez & Morticia can’t be beat. Thus, I dedicate this “Love at First Bite” Valentine’s Day 2021 Playlist to all you horror & Halloween lovers out there.

The Song List

When my Honey-Bunny and I started dating, he was not into horror or Halloween. I made sure all that changed rather quickly! Now he has learned that the way to my heart is not with flowers or jewelry, but with pumpkin & skull-shaped baking supplies, horror DVDs, and jack-o-lanterns. He loves music, so I decided to put together this Valentine’s Day 2021 Playlist so we can have mood music while we eat our homemade Valentine’s Day dinner. I hope you all enjoy it as well!

Valentine's Day 2021 Playlist Song Explanations

“Just Like a Ghost, You’ve Been Haunting My Dreams”

Spooky is the classic Halloween/horror love song. I would be remiss if I left it off this Valentine’s Day playlist. The jazzy tone is a perfect way to start the evening – the cool of the evening, when everything is getting kind of groovy.

I first heard this song on a goth compilation cd from a record store when I was in Jr. High and fell in love with it immediately. From the opening piano to the stunning vocals, this song is amazing. The clever lyrics are a fun blend of macabre imagery and a love song.

There is no one I’d rather spend an evil night together with than my Honey-Bunny!

There are a plethora of versions of I Put a Spell on You. The most notable are the original version from Screamin’ Jay Hawkins and Bette Midler’s Hocus Pocus rendition, but for those who want something just a little different, this version by Sylvia Black is a nice change of pace. Black has an alluring voice and the musical accompaniment is slow and jazzy.

Now that we’ve set the mood with three jazzy songs, it is time to pick up the pace. Ice Nine Kills takes inspiration from horror film classics for their songs. With Love Bites the inspiration was An American Werewolf in London. So howl at the moon with your lover while listening to this rocking duet.

Sometimes you just have to be silly. I can’t help but smile when I hear this song from the Disney Channel hit, Zombies. In a reimagining of the classic Romeo & Juliet story, Zombies chronicles the ill-fated love between a cheerleader and a zombie. Someday is the first love song duet and its horror icon imagery makes it a cute Valentine’s song for us horror lovers. What could go so wrong with a girl and a zombie?

“Frankenstein and Dracula have nothing on you. Jekyll and Hyde join the back of the queue”

Every once in a while, you need to remind your significant other who wears the pants in the relationship. Female of the Species is my subtle way of reminding my Honey-Bunny that I am the one running things around here!

As every relationship is a melding of two people, so is this list. My Honey-Bunny had a few recommendations for spooky-adjacent love songs he enjoys. This delightfully devilish song showcases Cake’s fun alt rock sound. He also appreciates the message that although all this lovey-dovey stuff is attractive to the fairer sex, there is an alternative motive as well.

This is my Honey-Bunny’s second suggestion. It is a little gruff for my tastes, but it does fit the horror/Halloween theme. Compromise is certainly important in a relationship! This is a fun, upbeat tune – so grab your partner and shake them bones!

Love can drive you crazy, especially when you are in a relationship with a monster – or someone who is obsessed with horror & Halloween. This is another high-energy tune to have fun with!

This is another cover song, with Sam the Sham and the Pharaoh’s recording the original version. I like the more modern twist. My Honey-Bunny and I first encountered this song from the film Cursed back when we were in high school (we had a date night at the movies). Therefore, this song as a personal connection to us as well as fitting with the Valentine’s horror theme.

I remember enjoying the rest of the soundtrack as well – I should check it out again soon.

I mentioned it at the start of this article, and I will reiterate it here: Gomez & Morticia Addams are the power couple of the horror & Halloween world. Haunted Heart was the featured song in the new animated Addams Family film, and the passionate, jazzy tune embodied their ghoulish romance.

“It takes the Batman, Wolfman, Frankenstein or Dracula to put her in the mood for love”

Although horror fanatics tend to be seen as more of a modern occurrence, the 1950’s had its share of b-horror movie fanatics. This cheesy song from The Diamonds chronicles one man’s attempts to woo his horror-loving girl. My Honey-Bunny can certainly relate to this poor man’s plight.

While this is more of a traditional love song, its focus on love enduring after death is sweet. The somber, heartfelt melody is a fitting way to end a romantic evening. It certainly makes me want to cuddle close with my Honey-Bunny!

And That’s the Valentine’s Day 2021 Playlist!

Did you like it? What songs are on your Valentines’ playlist? Let me know on Instagram and Twitter @EmilyIsHorror

Don’t have someone special to share the day with? Check out my Anti-Valentine’s Day 2021 Playlist for Singles Awareness Day tunes.

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Music

Anti-Valentine’s Day Playlist 2021

Anti-Valentine’s Day Playlist 2021

Does Valentine’s Day get you feeling down? Do you feel like February 14th is “Singles Awareness Day”? Are you pining over a long lost love in a cold, dark room while a raven mocks you? Let’s experience the heartache and pain together with this “A Stake Through the Heart” anti-valentine’s day 2021 playlist.

The Song List

Although – full disclosure – I currently have a wonderful Honey-Bunny to spend the 14th with, I have not forgotten what it felt like to not have that comfort at this time of year. Therefore, I have curated a playlist with thirteen spooky songs that embody the downs and – eventually – ups of being on your own.

Anti-Valentine's Day 2021 Song Explanations

I think it is impossible to be named Emily, love all things morbid and spooky, and not have a soft spot for this song by The Zombies. It is certainly one of my favorite songs of all time and a staple of any self-pity playlist I create for myself. So, let’s start our anti-valentine’s day 2021 playlist journey with this beautifully forlorn tune.

“The ceilings are white, but the shadows are black. The ghost in my heart say’s you’re never coming back. The house is haunted by the echo of your last goodbye”.

This is an old song that has been covered a number of times. In this version The Phantom Chords have done a wonderful job of creating a jazzy, more upbeat tune to feel downbeat to. Haunted houses, ghosts, and other spooky imagery work very well to symbolize loss and loneliness.

I’ve certainly been haunted by the ghosts of my past. Weezer’s Haunt You Every Day continues the previous song’s theme of losing yourself in the memories of faded love. Of course, we would all rather be the one doing the haunting instead of the one haunted.

When Karen Elson was married to The White Stripes’ Jack White, Third Man Records produced her first album, The Ghost Who Walks. The hauntingly beautiful titular song conveys the heartbreak and betrayal felt when a former love breaks up with you. As the lyrics state, it can cut like a knife.

One line from the song that resonates with me is “she’s crying to herself because his eyes never once looked cruel”. Sometimes love ends and a relationship is just not working. There is not always cruelty and malintent behind it.

An organ sound adds extra mystery and spookiness to the track. Also, that cover art is eerily beautiful!

No matter how bad you have it, there is always someone who has it worse. Remains of the day is the origin story for the Corpse Bride, Emily (no relation to yours truly). Unlike the previous song, here our protagonist literally had a knife plunged deep into her heart.

For those of you who aren’t aware of this amazing band, they take inspiration from horror films. The World in My Hands is based on Edward Scissorhands, but it still fits nicely in the spurned love theme of this list. We can all relate to the feeling of having a crush on someone above us in the social strata – and, of course, the knowledge that nice guys finish last.

This fun, rockin’ song concerns a breakup gone wrong. When the song’s protagonist broke it off with her beau, he put a voodoo curse on her. If she wouldn’t be with him, she wouldn’t be with anyone else either.

The first half of this list featured songs of sadness, pity, and loneliness. Now, it is time to move on to starting to feel a little more empowered. Tainted love is a classic 80’s anthem of those who realize they have gotten out of a toxic relationship. No one can make a song as creepy and dark as Marilyn Manson, so this cover is a must-have on a spooky anti-Valentine’s Day song list.

Next on our empowerment track here is Monster by Paramore. Being single is not always a bad thing. “Now that you’re gone, the world is ours”. We have a lot more strength than we realize!

This song combines spooky/horror and empowerment. Sabrina is a strong, independent woman. Even though I strongly disagree with her taste in men (I’m team Harvey 100%), I love how the character is headstrong and confident. When I am feeling down or insecure, this is my current go-to song. An upbeat and peppy melody will certainly brighten your day!

Lead female vocalists are not often altos, but Amanda Palmer is outstanding. Her deep voice is mesmerizing in this song about thriving on one’s own – and rubbing it in your ex’s face! That is certainly the best part about being single and empowered.

If A Rose for Emily has a special place in my heart, Bust Your Kneecaps also does for a similar reason. This song educates “Johnny” on exactly what he faces after he breaks up with the main character. As my Honey-Bunny is also a Johnny this song is a fun little tune I love to play for him as a cautionary tale.

The lyrics are not so much spooky as they are violent – or, rather, persuasive. They are certainly not threats, just promises.

Okay, I know that this one seems like the odd one out – what does a video game song from a passive-aggressive computer have to do with a break-up playlist? Let’s take a look at those lyrics:

“I used to want you dead, but now I only want you gone.”

“Go make some new disaster. That’s what I’m counting on. You’re someone else’s problem. Now I only want you gone.”

All that sounds pretty applicable to a bad relationship to me!

And That's the Anti-Valentine's Day 2021 Playlist!

Did you like it? What songs are on your breakup playlist? Let me know in the comments!

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