There are certain songs that are obligatory on any Halloween playlist and must be part of your neighborhood costume party. But we do Halloween a little differently around here, which is to say, with some sabor.
The last day of October also leads right into Day of the Dead, one of our favorite holidays because it celebrates life and honors loved ones who are no longer here.
From Vico C’s “Viernes 13” to “She Wolf” by Shakira, here are some songs to get your Halloween and Day of the Dead celebrations started on the right note.
“Remember Me,” Miguel ft. Natalia Lafourcade
“La Llorona,” Chavela Vargas
Many people have covered this folk song, but no one like this Costa Rican-born icon, who lived, sang, and died with Mexico in her heart.
“Calaveras y Diablitos” – Los Fabulosos Cadillacs
This ska-flavored classic reaffirms that death is nothing to fear and life is meant to be lived to the fullest.
“No Es Serio Este Cementerio” – Mecano
Long live the ‘80s! The Spanish pop band act out a gothic short film of sorts and turn a graveyard into an epic party for the undead.
“Calaverita” – La Santa Cecilia
Frontwoman La Marisoul and friends’ single embodies the spirit of Día de los Muertos with lyrics like, “I’m not afraid of death because she’s a part of me/ She was born with me and with me she’ll go one day/ Here’s to celebrating life!” They get bonus points for the Donald Trump lookalike zombie in the video, too.
“La Muerte Chiquita” – Café Tacvba
The alt-rockers honor Mexican folklore like only they can.