As the leaves are changing and the air is getting cooler, it’s the perfect time to craft your new fall playlists. Need some inspiration? Here are 15 song recommendations to make your fall even cozier.
“About You” – The 1975
This beautiful song captures the lingering feelings of love and nostalgia. Its emotional lyrics and dreamy melody are perfect for a cold rainy night or a long car ride where you’re left with nothing but your thoughts and your AirPods.
“Fade Into You” – Mazzy Star
Another wistful melody with a mesmerizing guitar that feels completely ethereal. As a song that truly encompasses autumn, it was made for those times when you’re lost in thought; the perfect addition to your playlist.
“All Too Well (10 Minute Version)” – Taylor Swift
This song is ten minutes of utter perfection. Taylor weaves vivid storytelling with emotion in every line, meaningful lyrics, and gentle acoustic guitar. The imagery of a song describes autumn, and it pairs beautifully with the song’s narrative. I love belting out these lyrics, and you will too. While there is a version out there that isn’t ten minutes, trust me: ten minutes are needed. You will remember this song all too well.
“The Only Living Boy in New York” – Simon and Garfunkel
This song is a perfect fit for any fall playlist. It has a mellow vibe that matches the crispness of autumn. The lyrics capture that feeling of change and longing that comes with the season. It has a cozy, nostalgic feel which is comforting during these fall months. This song is perfect for a walk admiring the falling leaves.
“Vienna” – Billy Joel
This is one of my favorite songs of all time, and it’s a perfect reminder that we are all doing the best we can. While the beginning of the school year can be hard, it’s important to remember that we each have our own pace and journey. Billy Joel’s soothing melody and thoughtful lyrics emphasize the importance of patience, and the song encourages listeners to embrace the present moment. It is a much needed pick-me-up that you need to add to your playlist.
“Linger” – The Cranberries
“Linger” reflects on the complexity and sincerity of relationships, and the struggle to let go. The meaningful lyrics and hummable tune is perfect for a fall day. It’s another song with a beautiful guitar, and enchanting vocals by the lead singer, Dolores O’Riordan. This song has seriously got me wrapped around its finger.
“There She Goes” – The La’s/ Sixpence None the Richer
I first heard this song on Gilmore Girls and fell in love immediately. The La’s are the original band who wrote the song, and their rendition is beautiful, but Sixpence None the Richer’s cover is also worth mentioning.
“Moon Song” – Phoebe Bridgers
Filled with beautiful metaphors and themes of love and connection, “Moon Song” is another hard-hitting song by Phoebe Bridgers. It portrays the feeling of wanting to give anything you can to a one-sided love, but not being able to. “If I could give you the moon, I would give you the moon” may sound like a line from Gru in Despicable Me, but this beautiful lyric is actually from “Moon Song.” Who knew? This sad, beautiful song is a perfect addition to any fall playlist.
“The Breeze” – Dr. Dog
“The Breeze” is a wonderful reminder to appreciate life’s moments of simplicity and let go of complexities to live a carefree, happy life. It resonates well during autumn when many of us are reflecting on changes and the beauty of nature. This song’s catchy melody makes it a joy to listen to.
“Better in the Dark” – Jordana, TV Girl
The soft, melodic guitar in “Better in the Dark” has got to be one of my favorite sounds in the world. The mesmerizing riff compliments Jordana’s vocals beautifully, enhancing the depth of the lyrics to shine throughout the song. Another thing that makes this song unique is the spoken outro taken from a radio show from the 1950s. TV Girl often uses spoken snippets from random pieces of old media at parts in their songs in order to add depth to their storytelling and create a nostalgic atmosphere.
“Just Like Heaven” – The Cure
This beloved track is known for its dreamy sound, blending alt-rock and pop to create a masterpiece. “Just Like Heaven” is an 80s song that literally sounds just like heaven. This song’s irresistible rhythm would make anyone tap their feet, or maybe even get up and start dancing like crazy.
“Talk” – Beabadoobee
This song’s angsty guitar is a little different than everything else on this list, and features a blend of catchy melodies and lyrics. Beabadoobee’s entire discography is definitely worth a listen. Her beautiful voice is nothing like I’ve ever heard, and it highlights her lyrics and compliments the backing sounds in this song especially.
“Silver Springs” – Fleetwood Mac
If I had to describe “Silver Springs” in one word, it would be “masterpiece.” The song is jam-packed with emotional lyrics, and carries a haunting sound that you will never get away from. I would also recommend watching the official live video on YouTube; seeing Stevie Nicks emotionally singing as she stares directly into her guitarist’s eyes, whom the song is about, is a life-changing experience.
“The Way Back” – Zach Bryan
This song blends folk and country, and Bryan’s heartfelt, expressive lyrics create this beautiful melody. I needed to include some diversity in this list, so for all my Zach Bryan fans, here you go.
“Something” – The Beatles
Written by George Harrison, “Something” is known for its heartfelt lyrics and melody, making it perfect for autumn. Frank Sinatra described it as “one of the greatest love songs ever written” and this is a true statement. It is a timeless classic that encapsulates the essence of love and emotion, making it a perfect listen during the fall months!