Memphis, TN, October 23, 2025

News Summary

This Halloween, the Memphis music scene showcases 20 spooky tracks that celebrate the city’s musical heritage. The playlist features a variety of genres including blues, funk, psychobilly, and hip-hop, highlighting both classic and contemporary contributions that embody an eerie spirit. Notable artists like Memphis Minnie and Otis Redding are included alongside hidden gems from the 70s and modern takes on Halloween themes, making this playlist a perfect soundtrack for the season.

Memphis Music Scene Unveils 20 Spooky Tracks for Your Halloween Playlist

Memphis, a city renowned for its rich musical heritage, has produced outstanding spooky tunes for over 100 years. This Halloween, music lovers can celebrate the season with an eclectic mix of tracks from various genres, including blues, funk, psychobilly, and hip-hop. Below is a curated list of 20 tracks that embody the eerie spirit of Halloween, showcasing the talent and creativity found within the Memphis music scene.

Classic Spooky Tracks

Among the notable entries is Memphis Minnie, known as “The Queen of the Country Blues,” who recorded the classic “Haunted Blues” in 1936. This track explores themes of voodoo and ghosts, setting the stage for a haunting listening experience. Similarly, Pat Hare, a talented yet lesser-known guitarist, released “I’m Gonna Murder My Baby” in 1954, alluding to his later criminal history, which adds a chilling context to the song.

Instrumentals and Unique Sounds

Not to be overlooked, an unknown band formerly known as the Spiders recorded an instrumental surf rock track at Memphis’ Fernwood Records, providing a different aspect of spooky soundscapes. The instrumental track “Monster” also captures eerie elements and is perfect for Halloween parties, despite the absence of lyrics.

Modern Takes on Spooky Themes

Moving into the 1960s, Otis Redding’s Halloween-themed track “Trick or Treat,” recorded in 1966 but not released until 1992, delivers a soulful spin on seasonal fun. Meanwhile, Koko Taylor produces a visceral experience in her duet with Willie Dixon, tackling themes of mental institutionalization in a haunting manner. Gene “Bowlegs” Miller‘s novelty track “Frankenstein’s Walk” from 1969 highlights dance moves as a unique addition to the playlist.

Hidden Gems from the 70s and Beyond

From the 1970s, Zuider Zee contributes “Haunter of the Darkness,” a lesser-known gem from the Memphis music scene. Other tracks worth noting include Three 6 Mafia’s 1997 offering, which samples horror elements and weaves a chilling narrative, and Lost Sounds, featuring Jay Reatard’s track “Breathing Machine,” which discusses apocalyptic themes.

Contemporary Contributions

Adding to the eclectic mix, Medieval Steel offers the energetic metal piece “Warlords,” which is well-suited for any Halloween occasion. Tav Falco & Panther Burns present “She’s My Witch,” fusing 1950s rockabilly with punk, while Wally Ford‘s story-telling in “Potato Heads from Hell” provides a B movie-style narrative.

Psychobilly and Horrorcore Elements

The Cramps gained recognition for “I Was a Teenage Werewolf,” recorded in Memphis, merging psychobilly with rock in a unique flair. Impala showcases a haunting instrumental medley with “Experiment in Terror/Stalkin’,” while Graveyard Productions exemplifies horrorcore elements in their 1994 track “Horror Stang.” The Grifters add a haunted atmosphere to their track “Mayonnaise,” making it a standout among spooky offerings.

A Final Touch on Spooky Sounds

Lastly, Clay Otis left behind “Disco Werewolf,” seen as a spiritual sequel to “Thriller,” before his passing. Los Psychosis, a psychobilly band with Latinx heritage, wraps up the list with “Mama Luna,” featuring an ominous tone that perfectly encapsulates Halloween’s vibes.

Conclusion

These 20 spooky tracks from Memphis musicians offer a vibrant mix of sounds that reflect the city’s rich musical legacy while catering to the traditions of Halloween. Whether through classic blues, modern hip-hop, or electrifying rockabilly, the Memphis music scene continues to exemplify creativity and haunting allure.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Memphis Celebrates Local Music Scene with New Playlist
Memphis Unveils Spooktacular 2024 Halloween Playlist to Get You in the Festive Spirit!

Additional Resources

• We Are Memphis: 10 Memphis Songs for Your Halloween Playlist
• Memphis Magazine: Your Weekly Guide to the Arts
• Commercial Appeal: Memphis Music Concerts & Tickets – October 2025
• Wikipedia: Music of Memphis
• Google Search: Memphis Halloween playlist

Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER

The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.