Revisiting Michael Jackson’s album ‘Scream’ this Halloween season
By Alexandria Fox · Staff Writer
October is finally here, which means it’s officially time for cozy sweaters, pumpkin everything and, of course, spooky playlists. No Halloween season ever feels complete without giving Michael Jackson’s “Scream” album a listen. Released in 2017, this compilation brings together some of Jackson’s most chilling, dramatic and irresistibly danceable tracks. Whether you’re carving pumpkins, decorating your dorm or throwing a Halloween party, “Scream” gives you the perfect soundtrack for a night of nostalgia and eerie fun.
While “Scream” features classics like “Ghosts,” “Blood on the Dance Floor” and “Dirty Diana,” the track that always steals the spotlight is (no surprise here) “Thriller.” Even more than forty years after its original release, “Thriller” remains the gold standard for Halloween hits. It’s impossible not to imagine the iconic red jacket and the zombie dance sequence. There’s something timeless about it; Every October, “Thriller” feels brand new all over again, which I love.
The compilation also features “Scream,” MJ’s unforgettable duet with his sister Janet. It’s one of my personal favorite tracks. The accompanying music video, set in a sci-fi spaceship, is considered one of the most expensive ever made, but every dollar spent is clearly visible on screen. It’s still one of the coolest visual experiences in pop music history. Janet and Michael’s chemistry is unmatched, and their synchronized choreography is awesome to watch.
Another underrated gem on “Scream” is “Ghosts,” which just feels quintessentially October. Its eerie backing track, ghostly whispers and theatrical tone sounds like something straight out of a haunted house attraction. In fact, the song was part of a 1996 short film of the same name, which features Jackson playing both the misunderstood protagonist and the villain (a creepy, small-town mayor). The film’s components and special effects were groundbreaking for the time, and its central theme about fear and misunderstanding is still relevant today.
Listening to “Scream” from start to finish feels like stepping into a haunted carnival funhouse. Each track has its own personality — some full of pep, some kind of creepy and some just movingly emotional. What ties them together is Jackson’s signature ability to blend theatricality with raw emotion. His music doesn’t just make you want to dance: It makes you feel.
For any younger fans who didn’t grow up with Jackson’s releases, “Scream” is an easy way to experience his legacy in one place. It’s also a perfect reminder of why he remains one of the most influential artists of all time. Even decades later, few performers have come close to matching his mix of innovation, charisma and sheer showmanship.
So, as Halloween approaches, turn off the lights, turn up the volume and let “Scream” set the mood. Whether you’re blasting “Thriller” in your car or just vibing to one of the slower hits, this album captures everything we love about spooky season — mystery, excitement and just a hint of danger. After all, no matter how many horror movies you watch this October, nothing screams Halloween quite like Michael Jackson.
