Witch House Music 101: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to the Dark Electronic Subgenre

Witch House Music 101: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to the Dark Electronic Subgenre Witch House music, a dark and eerie subgenre, emerged in the late 2000s, blending electronic, industrial, and goth music elements. Pioneered by artists like Salem, oOoOO, and White Ring, Witch House took inspiration from the DIY ethos of the 80s underground scene. The genre’s name, often seen as a tongue-in-cheek reference to mainstream “house” music, hints at a darker, alternative sound. Despite starting as a niche genre, Witch House has grown into a global phenomenon, largely thanks to platforms like SoundCloud and Bandcamp.

The Intersection of Darkness and Pop Culture

Witch House pulls from a diverse range of cultural and musical influences. Visually, the genre is steeped in occult symbolism, horror films, and 90s internet aesthetics. Musically, it merges hip hop, trap, shoegaze, and pst-punk elements, creating a haunting, eclectic sound. Artists frequently cite darkwave, industrial, and early horror cinema visuals as significant influences. These elements help create the spooky, atmospheric vibe Witch House is known for today.

Signature Sound: A Dark Sonic Alchemy

Witch House’s sound is unmistakable – heavy reverb, slowed-down tempos, distorted synths, and haunting vocal samples characterize the genre. Drum machines and eerie, echoing melodies generate an unsettling, hypnotic atmosphere. Signature techniques like pitch-shifted vocals, chopped and screwed effects, and ethereal beats give Witch House its shadowy, otherworldly soundscape.

Emotional Depth: A Haunting Experience

Witch House music taps into dark emotions, combining ambient beauty with the harshness of industrial noise. The melancholic, mysterious soundscapes evoke a surreal, almost dreamlike state that draws fans into its moody, atmospheric world. It’s more than just music – it’s an immersive, emotional experience.

Essential Witch House Tracks You Need to Hear

Salem – “King Night” (2010)

“King Night” is an essential track from Witch House pioneers Salem. Featuring ominous, distorted synths and ethereal choir samples, the song sets the tone for the genre with its heavy, slow beats and dark atmosphere. This track helped establish the foundation of Witch House’s eerie, unsettling sound.

Sidewalks and Skeletons – “Goth” (2015)

“Goth” by Sidewalks and Skeletons reflects the modern evolution of Witch House, combining its dark, atmospheric roots with a more polished sound. The track features deep bass, haunting vocal samples, and reverb-heavy beats, creating an immersive, cinematic feel. “Goth” retains the genre’s signature ethereal vibe while demonstrating how Witch House has evolved.

V▲LH▲LL – “Ormens Offer” (2018)

“Ormens Offer” brings a mystical edge to Witch House with its slow-building rhythms, pagan imagery, and atmospheric electronic elements. The Nordic influences and ritualistic beats create a dark, otherworldly sound, making V▲LH▲LL a standout in the modern Witch House scene.

PVTY KERRY – “BAILAMOS” (2024)

“BAILAMOS” by PVTY KERRY offers a fresh twist on the genre. The track fuses dark, ambient beats with heavy bass and sidechained kick drums, creating a creepy, surprisingly danceable energy. The song deftly moves between unsettling atmospheres and moments of infectious rhythm. “BAILAMOS” captures a cryptic, mysterious mood while remaining oddly catchy, showcasing PVTY KERRY’s ability to push the boundaries of Witch House into new, exciting territories.