When one thinks of Halloween music, one song in particular instantly comes to mind: Micheal Jackson’s “Thriller.” Released in 1982, “Thriller” was much more than just a pop hit–it became a cultural moment that redefined how music could shape a holiday, one that has lasted decades. The dazzling record topped Billboard charts, and the Thriller album went on to become the best-selling album of all time. With the song’s thrilling blend of creepy sound effects, eerie narration by Vincent Price and an unforgettable beat, “Thriller” combined pop, dance and horror in a way no one had seen before. It showed that a Halloween song didn’t have to be just a dramatized tune–it could be a record-breaking masterpiece!
What makes “Thriller” so incredible is the way that every element works together to create something unforgettable. Produced by the renowned Quincy Jones, the song combines funky bass, synthesizers and even creaking doors and howling wolves. Then there’s the iconic music video, directed by John Landis, which is truly more a Hollywood short film than a standard MTV clip. Nearly 14 minutes long, the “Thriller” video told a full story, complete with twists, transformations and zombies, as well as the legendary dance sequence led by Jackson himself. The choreography became just as famous as the song, inspiring flash mobs, YouTube tutorials and more. Put together, the song, the video and the dance didn’t just create a hit–they blossomed into a cultural event.
Before Micheal Jackson gifted the world with “Thriller,” most Halloween songs were lighthearted or campy, like “Monster Mash” by Bobby Pickett. These fun songs had their charm, but they never pushed beyond being seasonal tunes. “Thriller” raised the bar, proving that a horror-themed song wasn’t only for kids parties or movie soundtracks, but it could also be a masterpiece that dominated radio, MTV and dance floors across the globe! Decades later, no artist has been able to top “Thriller” as the ultimate Halloween anthem. In fact, no modern artist has even come close. Lady Gaga’s “Bloody Mary,” “Monster” and even her recent release, “The Dead Dance,” have eerie, gothic vibes, while Billie Eilish’s “bury a friend” and other dark pop tracks have been praised for their creepy edge as well. Still, none of these songs have managed to reach the universal status of “Thriller.” What makes it so hard for modern artists is that Jackson didn’t just write a catchy tune, he made a cultural event that combined music, dance, video and storytelling. In some ways, Jackson himself might be to blame: by setting the standard so high, he made it nearly impossible for anyone else to claim the Halloween throne.
After all these years, “Thriller” has still and likely will forever remain untouchable. It’s the rare hit that is both incredible in its production and timeless in its appeal, proving that a true Halloween anthem can last decades. And though artists have tried to bring their own spooky songs into the spotlight, none have shone like Jackson’s did. Which leaves music and Halloween fans alike to wonder–will there ever be another Halloween song as legendary as “Thriller?”
