
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” rising to the top of the charts around this time is a tradition.
Halloween is almost here, which means Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” is back near the top of U.S. iTunes.
“Thriller” originally appeared on Jackson’s 1982 album of the same name, and its horror-inspired sound and landmark video have made it a Halloween fixture for decades. By now, hearing it in October feels as normal as seeing the Cowboys lose on Thanksgiving (Just kidding, Cowboys fans, y’all win on Thanksgiving sometimes).
The song’s biggest strength is that it actually delivers on the party side. The atmosphere is spooky, but the groove keeps everything lively. Like, imagine being dressed in your full-blown outfit while pulling out your best Michael moves. It would be awesome.
Seeing it climb again is a reminder of how deeply a song can become attached to an occasion. Just like Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” dominates Christmastime, Halloween gives “Thriller” its annual opening, and Michael keeps making the most of it.
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” has returned to #1 on U.S. iTunes on the eve of Halloween. pic.twitter.com/krhdbLA7LK
— Talk of the Charts (@talkofthecharts) October 30, 2026

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
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