Written By: Mary Imagination
The spooky community is especially lucky this year, as 2026 delivers not one, not two, but three Friday the 13ths. We have a quickly approaching Friday the 13th in February, followed by another in March, and then one more arriving after haunt season in November. There are countless ways to celebrate these beloved spooky days, from hosting "Friday the 13th" movie marathons to visiting horror-themed destinations like escape rooms, year-round haunted attractions, macabre-themed bars, or even horror-themed axe-throwing venues.
For those on the go during Friday the 13th, nothing beats blasting a playlist dedicated to the Jason Universe and the spirit of the day. I love music, especially songs that speak directly to my passion for horror, Halloween, and haunted attractions. Below are some of my top tracks that will absolutely SLAY YOU on Friday the 13th.
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He’s Back (The Man Behind the Mask) by Alice Cooper (1986)
From the Godfather of Shock Rock himself, Alice Cooper slashes his way through this hard rock anthem, which became synonymous with "Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives". The song perfectly captures the eerie eighties spirit of the Jason Universe. The lyrics drop you right into the middle of a "Friday the 13th" film, with Jason stalking his victims and the iconic “ki ki ki, ma ma ma” woven directly into the track. Cooper’s catchy delivery will have you singing along with the unforgettable line, “He’s back. He’s the man behind the mask. And he’s out of control.”
If you get the chance, be sure to check out the music video below.
The video seamlessly blends horror theatrics, Cooper’s specialty, with clips from the film and an overarching storyline that fully immerses a couple in the world of "Friday the 13th", where they are terrorized by Jason Voorhees. Alice Cooper plays multiple roles, including a rock star, the father of the main character, also named Jason, and even Jason himself.
As an Alice Cooper fan, it is always a thrill to see this song performed live. Jason storms the stage with his looming presence, threatening death at every turn. Alice Cooper and Jason Voorhees are two absolute horror legends, perfectly paired through this iconic track. Cooper’s passion for horror shines throughout, making this song a true classic and a must-listen.
2. Thank God It’s Friday by Ice Nine Kills (2018)
Shifting from eighties rock to modern metal, next up is “Thank God It’s Friday” by Ice Nine Kills. With a heavier sound, the song carries the same theatrical spirit and love for horror that Cooper’s track delivers. It celebrates the films and both Pamela and Jason Voorhees, with particular attention given to Pamela, who recites her motivations for murder from the first film.
Ice Nine Kills are known for crafting music that pays homage to horror films and their iconic villains. This track is fast-paced, aggressive, and thrilling, driven by a deadly beat. The inclusion of a Crazy Ralph reference, complete with the chilling “you’re all doomed” sound bite, seals the deal. This is a Jason Universe fan’s anthem.
Check out the songs music video below.
The opening and closing of the video tie into the overarching storyline of the album "The Silver Scream". Once the song begins, you are transported straight to Camp Crystal Lake, where the band performs in the woods while campers attempt to survive Jason’s wrath.
One standout detail is how closely the song mirrors the story beats of the first film, especially the calm, deceptive ending that sets up a final punch punctuated by the familiar “ki ki ki, ma ma ma.”
I have had the pleasure of seeing this incredibly theatrical band live, though they did not perform this particular song at the show I attended. Through online footage, I later discovered that they often feature a performer dressed as Pamela Voorhees during her segment of the song, which is a fantastic touch.
This track is a horror fan’s dream and a clear display of Ice Nine Kills’ passion for the genre and for Jason Voorhees.
3. Jason Is Dead (Feat. Bitter Stephens) by Figure (2014)
Now we switch gears from rock and metal to electronic music, often referred to within the horror community as Monster Step. “Jason Is Dead” by Figure is packed with sound bites from the iconic "Friday the 13th" score, dialogue from the films, and trailer audio, all building toward an intense rap verse from Bitter Stephens delivered from Jason’s violent point of view. Every element fits together seamlessly.
It is nearly impossible not to move along to this high-energy, slashing track. There is a reason Figure’s music has been featured for multiple seasons at Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood. Like all of his work, this song is a celebration of horror and the legacy of Jason Voorhees.
There is no official music video, but here is the official YouTube upload.
If you enjoy Figure’s musical tribute to the Jason Universe, check out another track from the same album, Monsters Vol. 5, titled “Friday the 13th.” It begins with a slower, more ominous build than “Jason Is Dead” and features longer sound bites from the first film. It is a must for hardcore fans. Figure also has several other Jason-themed tracks throughout his catalog.
Figure is an artist I have yet to see perform live, and I still regret missing his one-night-only performance at Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood years ago. His passion for horror and the macabre makes his music absolutely TERRORIFIC.
4. Friday the 13th Movie and Game Soundtracks by Harry Manfredini
Last but certainly not least, while all of the tracks above pay tribute to Jason Voorhees and the films, this entry is the undead beating heart of the entire Jason Universe. The "Friday the 13th" movie and game soundtracks by Harry Manfredini.
Manfredini composed the music for the films from the original in 1980 through "Jason X" in 2001. He also contributed to "Freddy vs Jason" in 2003 and composed the score for "Friday the 13th: The Game" in 2017.
Listening to these soundtracks instantly immerses you in the world of Camp Crystal Lake. The music is packed with ominous bass lines, shrieking violins, menacing horns, and eerie supernatural textures. Some tracks even shift genres to match specific scenes. From the massive library of music that haunts this franchise, here are a few personal favorites.
“In the Barn Main Title” from "Friday the 13th"
This track sets the terrifying tone for the entire series and remains one of the most effective openings in horror history.
“Tina’s Theme” from Friday the 13th Part VII
Fred Molin partnered with Harry Manfredini on this score. The ethereal quality of Tina’s theme perfectly reflects her telekinetic abilities, and the melody is woven throughout the film. It is absolutely beautiful.
“Theme from Friday the 13th Part 3”
Michael Zager partnered with Harry Manfredini on this track. This one is pure fun. It opens with the iconic horns, violin stabs, and the familiar vocal cue, then takes a groovy and eerie turn. I may be slightly biased, as I grew up listening to the "Now Playing Podcast", whose Friday the 13th retrospective episodes all opened with this theme. It still hits just right.
“Jason Out” from "Friday the 13th Part VI Jason Lives"
This track features a powerful bass line and a perfect blend of every signature musical element Manfredini is known for.
Thank you for joining me on this musical journey through songs and soundtracks that transport you straight into the Jason Universe. I hope these tracks enhance your Friday the 13ths, haunt season nights, and any moment when you feel like slashing through the day with some spooky jams that summon the spirit of JASON VOORHEES.
Wishing you the most macabre and fun Fridays the 13th ahead.
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