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Halloween is a time for spooky costumes, haunted houses, and, of course, the perfect playlist to set the eerie mood. While classic Halloween songs like “Thriller” and “Monster Mash” dominate many playlists, there’s a lesser-known but equally spine-tingling category: country Halloween songs.

1. “Ghost Riders in the Sky” – Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash’s rendition of “Ghost Riders in the Sky” paints a vivid picture of ghostly cowboys riding across the night sky. The haunting melody and Cash’s deep, resonant voice make this song an eerie and captivating choice for Halloween.

2. “Long Black Veil” – Lefty Frizzell

“Long Black Veil” is a classic country ballad that tells the story of a man wrongly accused of murder and the mysterious woman who could provide an alibi but remains hidden behind a long black veil. The song’s mournful atmosphere and enigmatic tale make it a great addition to your Halloween playlist.

3. “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia” – Vicki Lawrence

This song may not be specifically about Halloween, but it’s a chilling tale of small-town drama, murder, and mystery. The haunting lyrics and melody create an eerie atmosphere that’s perfect for setting the Halloween mood.

4. “Better Dig Two” – The Band Perry

“Better Dig Two” by The Band Perry is a modern country song with a dark twist. The lyrics describe a love that goes to extremes, even beyond the grave. It’s a contemporary choice for your Halloween playlist, blending pop-country with a touch of the macabre.

5. “Mama, He’s Crazy” – The Judds

While not explicitly Halloween-themed, “Mama, He’s Crazy” by The Judds tells the tale of a love so intense that it’s almost crazy. The eerie passion and haunting melodies make it a unique choice for your Halloween music lineup.

6. “Witchy Woman” – Eagles

The Eagles’ “Witchy Woman” combines rock and country influences with spooky lyrics that are perfect for setting the Halloween mood. This classic rock-country fusion is a great addition to any Halloween playlist.

7. “Hank” – Keith Urban

Keith Urban’s “Hank” tells the tale of a man whose obsession with Hank Williams leads him down a dark path. The song’s blend of country and pop influences, along with its mysterious storyline, makes it a unique choice for Halloween.

8. “The House That Built Me” – Miranda Lambert

While not a spooky song, Miranda Lambert’s “The House That Built Me” carries a haunting nostalgia that makes it a compelling addition to your Halloween playlist. It reflects on the past and lost memories, adding a touch of melancholy to your Halloween atmosphere.

9. “O Death” – Ralph Stanley

Ralph Stanley’s rendition of “O Death” was featured in the movie “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” and it’s both a chilling and soul-stirring song. The lyrics are a conversation with death itself, making it a thought-provoking addition to your Halloween playlist.

10. “Delia’s Gone” – Johnny Cash

Another Johnny Cash song, “Delia’s Gone,” tells the story of a man who murders his lover, Delia. The eerie narrative and Cash’s compelling vocals make it a dark and captivating choice for Halloween.

11. “The Legend of Wooley Swamp” – Charlie Daniels Band

“The Legend of Wooley Swamp” is a spooky country-rock song that tells the tale of a man who encounters a terrifying ghost in the Wooley Swamp. This track’s eerie storytelling and haunting instrumentals are perfect for a Halloween-themed playlist.