Billboard’s Halloween Songs List Sparks Debate Among Staff

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In the lead-up to Halloween, Billboard released its list of the 25 biggest Halloween songs, stirring up mixed reactions among the team from NPR’s All Things Considered.

Host Ailsa Chang kicked off the discussion, highlighting that the list, based on Hot 100 performance, featured iconic tracks, including Michael Jackson‘s “Thriller.” However, many staffers found the rankings questionable.

Jonas Adams, director of All Things Considered, expressed his frustration, stating, “I don’t understand how Michael Jackson ‘Thriller’ could be ranked 22 out of all Halloween songs. The song is everywhere during October. You cannot deny that this song is the No. 1 Halloween song.”

Producer Avery Keatley acknowledged that while “Monster Mash” holds a nostalgic place in Halloween music, it might not be one that deserves frequent listens. “It’s a Halloween classic. I wouldn’t say it’s a song I’m going to listen to more than once per year,” she said with a laugh.

Kathryn Fink, another producer, shared her favorites. “My favorite Halloween song is ‘This Is Halloween’ from ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas.’ It has so many memories attached to it,” she remarked.

Keatley also pointed out a song she feels deserves more recognition: “I Put A Spell On You” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins. “That song never charted, but it captures the essence of Halloween perfectly,” she explained.

Adams brought up Geto Boys’ “Mind Playing Tricks On Me,” showcasing its Halloween-themed lyrics with an edge. “My list is going to be always a little different from Billboard,” he added. The staff discussed various top contenders, but Adam’s insistence on Jackson’s iconic track lingered throughout the conversation.

The candid debate illustrates that while Billboard’s rankings hold weight, personal favorites can clash with mainstream selections, making for a lively discussion in the spirit of Halloween.