https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5r6pX5oRPOrrpSB6RkuyOd?si=wcX0i7ctSX2H5xOhe2z0JQ
Sipping apple cider and watching the leaves change is one of my favorite times of the year. The weekends spent baking, the comfy crewnecks, and cozy Ugg Boots to keep warm as the breezes grow colder and colder.
With a cup in hand and the smell of pumpkin spice filling my nose, I sit in a coffee shop, compiling a playlist for times like this where I’m writing, baking, studying, or even when I’m just heading to bed.
Here are my top 10 autumn song recommendations!
- California Dreamin’ by The Mama’s and The Papa’s
“California Dreamin’” by The Mamas and The Papas emphasizes longing during the fall season. The song shows a desire for warmth and sunshine, rather than the chilly weather of fall. “All the leaves are brown and the sky is gray. I’ve been for a walk, on a winter’s day.” Its melody and lyrics bring emotions of nostalgia and yearning for brighter days.
Related songs in the playlist: “West Coast” by Lana Del Rey, “Night Shift” by Lucy Dacus, and “Sparks” by Coldplay
- Anything by Adrienne Lenker
“Anything” by Adrienne Lenker goes with the fall season through its themes of vulnerability and hopeless romance. As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, the song resembles the changing scenery. “I don’t wanna be the owner of your fantasy. I just wanna be a part of your family.” The lyrics invite listeners to contemplate their connections and experiences, much like the mood that autumn often brings. The song aligns perfectly with the bittersweet nature of fall.
Related songs in the playlist: “Velvet Ring” by Big Thief, “Work Song” by Hozier, “Roslyn” by Bon Iver & St. Vincent, and “Back to December” by Taylor Swift.
- Linger by The Cranberries
“Linger” by The Cranberries resonates with the fall season with its message of heartbreak and yearning. “You know I’m such a fool for you. You got me wrapped around your finger. Do you have to let it linger?” The depth in the vocals works well with the mood of autumn.
Related songs in the playlist: “Thérèse” by Maya Hawke, “No One Noticed” by The Marias, and “Fade Into You” by Mazzy Star.
- The Night We Met by Lord Huron
“The Night We Met” by Lord Huron explores nostalgia, love, and loss. “I don’t know what I’m supposed to do. Haunted by the ghost of you. Oh, take me back to the night we met.” These lyrics are poetic and express the craving to return to a moment in the past.
Related songs in the playlist: “Liability” by Lorde, “Let The Light In” by Lana Del Rey and Father John Misty, and “Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane.
- The Way Things Go by Beabadoobee
“The Way Things Go” by Beabadoobee aligns with fall because it’s all about change and figuring stuff out. The song reminds listeners of those feelings of uncertainty and how relationships can get complicated. “Guess it’s not far from the ordinary, they do say love is blind. But I guess that’s the way things go.” It’s like the perfect soundtrack for those chilly days when you’re just trying to make sense of everything.
Related songs in the playlist: “Disco” by Surf Curse, “Bags” by Clairo, “Juna” by Clairo.
- Something in the Orange by Zach Bryan
“Something in the Orange” by Zach Bryan is such a lovely song. The song is all about feelings of love and nostalgia much like other songs on this list. “If you leave today, I’ll just stare at the way. The orange touches all things around. The grass, trees and dew, how I just hate you.” It captures the moments of looking back on a relationship, making it a must-listen for anyone who’s ever felt that kind of longing.
Related songs in the playlist: “Piano Man” by Billy Joel, “For Emma” by Bon Iver, and “Salt and The Sea” by The Lumineers.
- Anyone Else But You by The Moldy Peaches
“Anyone Else But You” by The Moldy Peaches is super cute and funny. It’s like the soundtrack to those indie movies that you watch, and it just makes your heart happy. The Moldy Peaches are all about young love, and their playful vibe makes you smile. “You are always trying to keep it real. I’m in love with how you feel. I don’t see what anyone can see. In anyone else but you.” It’s relatable and brings that feeling of having a crush, making it perfect for those days when you’re daydreaming.
Related songs in the playlist: “We’re Going to be Friends” by The White Stripes, “Clay Pigeons” by Michael Cara, and “All I Want is You” by Barry Louis Polisar.
- There She Goes by The La’s
“There She Goes” by The La’s is upbeat and catchy, like walking through crunchy leaves and feeling butterflies when you see someone you like. “There she goes again, racing through my brain and I just can’t contain, this feelin’ that remains.” The La’s perfect that rush of infatuation, and the song makes you want to dance around. It’s a classic that reminds you of those exciting moments when your heart skips a beat.
Related songs in the playlist: “Kiss Me” by Sixpence None the Richer, “Girlfriend in a Coma” by the Smiths, and “Dreaming” by Blondie.
- Made To Fall in Love by Daniel Caesar
“Made to Fall in Love” by Daniel Caesar is a gorgeous song, lyrically and musically. Daniel Caesar’s voice is smooth and makes the song feel so intimate. “As autumn leaves start to fall, will you cling to me, my love? If my simple words are just not enough. Let me stop by saying you’re all I want.” The lyrics celebrate those warm feelings of love, making it perfect for snuggling up on a fall evening.
Related songs in the playlist: “Pink + White” by Frank Ocean, “Best Part” by Daniel Caesar (Feat. H.E.R.), and “Exchange” by Bryson Tiller.
- You Can’t Catch Me Now by Oliva Rodrigo
“You Can’t Catch Me Now” by Oliva Rodrigo is the kind of song that makes you want to dance in your room and feel like a main character. “But I’m in the trees, I’m in the breeze. My footsteps on the ground. You’ll see my face in every place but you can’t catch me now.” Olivia Rodrigo brings a feeling of breaking free and freely expressing your emotions.
Related songs in the playlist: “Dog Days are Over” by Florence + The Machine, “Ho Hey” by The Lumineers, and “Budapest” by George Ezra.
I hope you enjoy this playlist! Happy autumn DSHA!
