Music has the power to evoke emotions, set the mood, and even tell a story. But what happens when the melody turns malevolent? This curated list of horror films explores the dark side of music, where songs become the source of terror. From cursed lullabies to demonic tunes, these films will make you think twice before humming along. Whether you're a horror aficionado or a music lover, this collection promises a unique blend of chills and thrills, showcasing how music can be both a comfort and a curse.

The Exorcist (1973)
Description: While not primarily about music, the film features a chilling scene where the possessed Regan sings "Tubular Bells" in a demonic voice, making the song synonymous with horror.
Fact: The song "Tubular Bells" by Mike Oldfield became a cultural phenomenon due to its use in the film.


The Wicker Man (1973)
Description: This cult classic involves a pagan community where songs and music play a central role in their rituals, culminating in a terrifying climax set to the tune of "The Wicker Man."
Fact: The film's soundtrack was composed by Paul Giovanni and includes traditional folk songs, giving it an authentic and eerie atmosphere.


The Dead Zone (1983)
Description: While not strictly about music, the film features a scene where a song by Johnny Smith (the protagonist) eerily predicts future events, adding a chilling layer to the story.
Fact: The film was directed by David Cronenberg, known for his unique take on horror.


The Devil's Advocate (1997)
Description: Music plays a pivotal role with the song "Paint It Black" by The Rolling Stones, which becomes a leitmotif for the devilish themes explored in the film.
Fact: Al Pacino, who plays the devil, reportedly chose this song himself for its thematic relevance.


The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
Description: While more of a musical, the Phantom's haunting voice and his obsession with Christine's singing make this film a unique entry in horror-themed musicals.
Fact: Andrew Lloyd Webber's score was adapted for the film, and it features one of the most iconic songs in musical theatre history.


The Ring (2002)
Description: This film isn't just about a cursed videotape; it's also about the eerie song "The Ring" that plays during the tape, which becomes a haunting melody in the minds of viewers.
Fact: The song was composed by Hans Zimmer, and it was specifically designed to be unsettling and memorable.


The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
Description: This meta-horror film includes a scene where the characters are forced to perform a musical number as part of a ritual, turning the horror trope on its head.
Fact: The film was written by Joss Whedon, known for his love of musical elements in storytelling.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: The film uses a lullaby as a recurring motif, which becomes increasingly sinister as the story unfolds, embodying the horror of the Babadook.
Fact: The lullaby was written specifically for the film and has become a recognizable piece of horror music.


The Lure (2015)
Description: A Polish film where two mermaid sisters join a nightclub act, blending horror with musical elements in a unique and unsettling way.
Fact: The film uses original songs and was Poland's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 89th Academy Awards.


The Neon Demon (2016)
Description: While more of a psychological thriller, the film's use of music and sound design, particularly in the fashion show scenes, adds to its unsettling atmosphere.
Fact: The film's soundtrack was composed by Cliff Martinez, known for his work on other unsettling films like "Drive."
