University of Miami students share Halloween music memories

University of Miami students identified five specific tracks that anchor their Halloween traditions this year. The group, ranging from a 1962 novelty hit to a 2010 Disney Channel song, serves as a primary soundtrack for the holiday on campus. These selections reflect a shared preference for nostalgic and family-oriented music over modern releases.

Kayley Saveedra, a UM student, cited Bobby 'Boris' Pickett's 'Monster Mash' as a key part of her past. The song, released in 1962, features deep vocals and sound effects such as bubbling water and creaking doors. Saveedra said the track reminds her of choosing costumes and trick-or-treating as a child.

Aliette Vazquez also named 'Monster Mash' as a favorite. She noted that the song has been a constant presence from her elementary school years to the present. Vazquez said the music brings back memories of gathering with friends and family, reinforcing the idea that Halloween is a time for communal fun.

Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' remains a staple for younger generations. The 1982 track and its accompanying music video have amassed 1.2 billion views on YouTube. Junior Gianna Gras said the song reminds her of dressing up with her family when she was little. The choreography has also been featured in flash mobs, keeping the performance aspect alive for new audiences.

China Anne McLain's 'Calling All the Monsters' resonates strongly with Gen Z listeners. The song was recorded by McLain as a child actor on Disney Channel 15 years ago. The music video has surpassed 60 million views on YouTube, a number that excludes viewers who watched it between programs on the channel. Hedda Rejsjo, who lived in Sweden, said she discovered the song while abroad. Rejsjo stated that the track made her love Halloween more.

Danny Elfman's composition 'This is Halloween' from the 1993 film 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' is another top choice. The opening song of the movie features frightening lyrics paired with detailed animation. Vazquez called it one of her favorite Disney songs. Saveedra added that she first heard it as a child and finds the song festive because it directly addresses the holiday.

John Carpenter's 1978 'Halloween Theme' rounds out the list. The melody from the classic horror film is a common element in Halloween playlists. Sofia Garcia said her father plays creepy Halloween music in October. Garcia described decorating their house while he played the tracks on a speaker, noting that she hears the song frequently.

For students who do not traditionally celebrate the holiday, these tracks offer an entry point. The selection highlights a desire for specific sonic cues that trigger personal memories. The list moves from 1960s novelty acts to 2010s television music, covering four decades of popular culture.