Songs About Ghosts
Ghosts and the supernatural have always been a source of intrigue and mystery, inspiring countless stories, legends, and songs throughout history. In the world of music, artists have been particularly drawn to the haunting power of these themes, producing some of the most captivating and evocative tunes out there.
If you’re looking to add some otherworldly flavor to your playlist, here are some of the best songs about ghosts and the supernatural to check out.
“The Ghost Inside” – Broken Bells
“The Ghost Inside” by Broken Bells isn’t just your average spooky tune. The lyrics were actually inspired by a real-life experience that lead vocalist James Mercer’s wife had. She heard eerie noises coming from their cellar and went down to investigate. But after seeing a shadowy figure, she fled in terror and couldn’t bring herself to go back home for days. This personal tale serves as the inspiration for the music video, which features talented model and actress Dania Ramirez as the haunted wife. If you’re a fan of horror films, you might also recognize nods to “The Changeling,” released in 1980. “The Ghost Inside” is more than just a song – it’s a bone-chilling experience that will leave you wondering what lurks in the shadows of your own home.
“The Ghost of Tom Joad” – Bruce Springsteen
Written and performed by the legendary Bruce Springsteen, “The Ghost of Tom Joad” tells the tragic story of an impoverished family in search of a better life. It’s based on John Steinbeck’s 1939 novel, The Grapes of Wrath, and its structure follows that of a traditional folk tune. Many artists have recorded their own versions of this haunting track over the years, with each taking different liberties to make it their own. But Springsteen’s rendition still feels like one of the most powerful interpretations out there. With its heartbreakingly beautiful lyrics and soulful performance, this song is sure to bring you back in time – straight into the broken dreams and desperate struggles of the Great Depression era.
“Ghosts” – Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s “Ghosts” is an unexpected supernatural surprise. This five-minute-long track blends elements of rock, funk, and classical music to create a musical experience that feels both modern and timeless at the same time. The song follows a story of betrayal and revenge as MJ tells us about a ghostly figure who seeks retribution after being wronged by his former lover. Although it was never released as a single, this tune has become an absolute fan favorite thanks to its innovative mix of genres and powerful lyrics.
“Ghost Riders in the Sky” – Johnny Cash
If you’re up for something a little more whimsical, then Johnny Cash’s “Ghost Riders in the Sky” is well worth checking out. This classic country tune tells the story of a group of ghostly riders chasing an unfortunate soul through the desert wilderness. With its unforgettable Western swagger and catchy melody, there’s no doubt that this one will get stuck in your head – particularly when Cash adds his characteristic raspy vocal delivery to the mix.
“I Put a Spell On You” – Screamin’ Jay Hawkins
“I Put a Spell On You” is a classic blues tune that was originally written by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins. It’s been covered by countless artists over the years, but none of them quite capture the song’s spooky feel like Hawkins does. With its eerie opening chords and haunting vocal delivery, this track certainly lives up to its title. And did we mention that it was actually meant to be a humorous love song?
“Sympathy for the Devil” – Rolling Stones
Although it doesn’t necessarily deal with ghosts or the supernatural, “Sympathy for the Devil” embodies the devilish energy and mystique that has fascinated music fans for decades. With its catchy rhythm and the unforgettable vocals of Mick Jagger, the song invokes themes of death, darkness, and the macabre, leaving its listeners spellbound and entranced.
“Ghost” – Neutral Milk Hotel
Neutral Milk Hotel’s “Ghost” is a haunting indie ballad that tells the story of a young woman who succumbs to the weight of her sadness and is buried in an unmarked grave beside a river. The track is filled with emotion, making it impossible not to feel something when listening to it. With its soft guitar strums and gentle vocal delivery, this song serves as a timely reminder of how devastating loss can be – yet also how beautiful life can be at the same time.
“Ghost Behind My Eyes” – Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy Osbourne’s “Ghost Behind My Eyes” is one of the most chilling songs about ghosts ever written. The track conveys a sense of unease, with its eerie backing vocals and underlying dread that builds up as the song progresses. With its intense climax and powerful lyrics, this tune will send chills down your spine – and leave you pondering just what it is that lurks in the shadows when we least expect it.
“Ghosts That We Knew” – Mumford & Sons
Mumford & Son’s “Ghosts That We Knew” is a melancholic yet beautiful track about the ghosts of our past and how they never truly go away. This hauntingly sublime ballad features soulful string accompaniment, gentle vocals, and thoughtful lyrics that will stay with you long after it ends.
“Give Up the Ghost” – Radiohead
Radiohead’s “Give Up the Ghost” is an atmospheric journey through personal loss and grief. With its ominous drums, ethereal synths, and Thom Yorke’s heartbreaking lyrics, this song serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes we need to let go in order to move forward – even if it means saying goodbye to those we love.
“Watching You Without Me” – Kate Bush
Kate Bush’s “Watching You Without Me” is a hauntingly beautiful track about the ghost of a departed loved one. This track builds slowly and eerily, with its emotional lyrics and captivating vocal delivery adding to its impact. As the song reaches its climax and you’re left wanting more, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty of this melancholic masterpiece.
“Misguided Ghosts” – Paramore
Paramore’s “Misguided Ghosts” takes an acoustic-based approach to tackle themes of self-doubt and fear of the unknown. With its gentle guitar strums and soulful vocals, this uplifting tune serves as a reminder that sometimes we need to let go of our fears and embrace our destiny, no matter how uncertain it may be.
“Ghost of the Navigator” – Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden’s “Ghost of the Navigator” combines metal riffs with piercingly passionate vocals to create a memorable ode to lost sailors and their spectral companions. With its dramatic drumming, soaring guitar solo, and melancholic lyrics, this track will transport you back in time – while also leaving your heart heavy from the realization that those we love are never really gone.
“Ghosts” – Stevie Nicks
Fleetwood Mac songstress Stevie Nicks brings her signature vocal style to her track “Ghosts”. The ethereal synths create a dreamy atmosphere, while the melancholic lyrics detail her journey of loss and grief. With its hauntingly beautiful vocal delivery and captivating production, this song is sure to leave you with a chill down your spine.
“The Ghost In You” – The Psychedelic Furs
The Psychedelic Furs’ “The Ghost In You” takes on an eerie post-punk sound to tell the story of a lost love that still lingers in our hearts. With its catchy chorus and edgy guitars, this track will have you singing along – while also feeling the lingering presence of ghosts, both seen and unseen.
“Ghost” – Halsey
Halsey’s “Ghost” takes on a powerful pop-rock sound to delve into the depths of heartache and longing. With its driving beats, heartfelt lyrics, and soaring synths, this song will have you singing along as it transports you back to those bittersweet memories of love.
“The Ghost on the Shore” – Lord Huron
We can’t talk about songs about ghosts without mentioning Lord Huron’s “The Ghost On The Shore”. This atmospheric folk tune con is a perfect example of how music can bring us face-to-face with our own mortality. With its soothing verses, heartfelt chorus, and melancholic vibes, this track will stay with you long after it has ended.
“American Ghost Dance” – Red Hot Chili Peppers
This classic Red Hot Chili Peppers tune is a powerful testament to the connection between the living and the dead. With its driving rock riffs, catchy melodies, and unapologetic lyrics, this song will have you dancing along – while also feeling that eerie sensation of being watched by ghosts from beyond.
“The Ghost Of You” – My Chemical Romance
My Chemical Romance’s “The Ghost Of You” takes on a hard-hitting, yet melodic punk sound to bring us back to the days of our youth. The raw emotion in Gerard Way’s vocals will leave you with goosebumps as he sings about the ghosts we carry with us throughout life.
“Ghost Town” – The Specials
The Specials’ “Ghost Town” is a hauntingly beautiful mixture of ska and post-punk that perfectly captures the eerie vibes of a forgotten city. With its reggae-tinged guitars, soulful vocals, and melancholic lyrics, this anthemic tune will transport you to a place where ghosts roam.
“The Ghost Song” – The Doors
The Doors’ “The Ghost Song” takes us on a journey through Jim Morrison’s thoughts and feelings about the ethereal presence of ghosts. With its dreamy production, hypnotic rhythm, and poetic lyrics, this song is sure to transport you to another place as it captures the essence of longing and loss.
“Ghost on the Dance Floor” – Blink-182
Blink-182’s “Ghost On The Dance Floor” is an upbeat punk rock tune that speaks to our existential dread. With its catchy chorus and driving drums, this song will have you singing along – while also feeling a chill as you contemplate the ghosts who are lurking in the shadows.
“Ghostbusters” – Ray Parker Jr.
Ray Parker Jr.’s iconic theme song for the 1984 film “Ghostbusters” will have you singing along in no time. With its catchy chorus and upbeat production, this track will bring you back to the days of your youth – while also entertaining your inner ghost hunter!
“Happy Phantom” – Tori Amos
Tori Amos’ “Happy Phantom” is a hauntingly beautiful ode to our lost loves. With its soaring synths, ethereal vocal delivery, and poetic lyrics, this track will linger with you as it captures that bittersweet feeling of missing someone who is gone.
“Ghosts of Cape Horn” – Gordon Lightfoot
Gordon Lightfoot’s “Ghosts of Cape Horn” is a haunting folk tune that speaks to our fear of the unknown. With its gentle guitar picking and sorrowful lyrics, this track will stay with you long after it has ended – while also making you think about the ghosts who still linger in the night.
“The Ghost of Corporate Future” – Regina Spektor
Regina Spektor’s “The Ghost Of Corporate Future” is a chilling warning about our future as we hurtle towards technological dystopia. With its eerie synth beats, driving guitars, and powerful vocal delivery, this song will have you feeling uneasy as it brings us face-to-face with our corporate ghosts.
“Ghost Dancing” – Simple Minds
Simple Minds’ “Ghost Dancing” is a chilling dance track that speaks to our eternal longing for something we can never have. With its driving synths, haunting melodies, and intense vocal delivery, this song will stay with you long after it has ended – while also bringing to life the ghosts of our past.
“Dead Man’s Party” – Oingo Boingo
Oingo Boingo’s “Dead Man’s Party” is an upbeat ska-rock tune about embracing death with a smile. With its catchy chorus and spooky vibes, this track will have you dancing along – while also appreciating the mysterious ways of the ghosts that lurk in the shadows.
“O Death” – Jen Titus
Jen Titus’ hauntingly beautiful “O Death” will leave you with chills as she sings about the inevitability of death. With its bleak piano and eerie production, this song will stay with you long after it has ended – while also making you think about the ghosts that linger even after life is gone.
“The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” – Gordon Lightfoot
Gordon Lightfoot’s “The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald” is a hauntingly beautiful folk tune that speaks to the tragedy of death. With its sorrowful guitar picking and powerful lyrics, this track will linger with you long after it has ended – while also making you think about the ghosts who are lost at sea.
“Ghost Towns” – Radical Face
Radical Face’s “Ghost Towns” brings us back to a time before technology, when ghost stories and superstitions were still alive in our minds. With its haunting piano, intricate strings, and melancholic lyrics, this song will transport you to another place as it captures the essence of loss and nostalgia for days gone by.
Whether you’re looking for an upbeat dance track, a hauntingly beautiful ballad or something in between, there’s something here for everyone. So put on your ghostbusting gear and take a dive into the spookiest songs about ghosts!
Conclusion On Songs About Ghosts
Songs about ghosts serve as a reminder that we all possess an undeniable connection to our pasts, no matter how much time has passed. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, blues, indie, or Western music, these songs about ghosts and the supernatural have the power to transport you to otherworldly realms, leaving you spellbound and entranced. So turn up the volume, embrace the mystical energy, and let the music take you on a journey you’ll never forget.
If you’re looking for tunes that will haunt you in the best possible way, then look no further than this list of songs about ghosts. From powerful pop-rock to hauntingly beautiful anthems, these tracks are sure to evoke a range of emotions – from fear and sadness to hope and joy. So make yourself a ghostly playlist and explore the depths of our shared mortality today.
Happy haunting!