With the colder breeze, crunchier leaves, and scent of cinnamon and spice, Autumn brings a shift in vibes that can be seen in nature, clothing, and especially music. The fall experience has something special for all of the senses: the visual shift to warmer, darker colors; the goosebumps that begin to form with the chill; the smell of spiced candles in classrooms; the introduction of seasonal drinks to local cafes; and lastly, the shift from bouncy summer music to the calmer music of the season.
While not necessarily a season of sadness, coming from summer may give Fall a gloomy reputation. Oftentimes, the season’s music is bittersweet, holding a feeling of unsaid words. The days that become more night than day only add to the seasonal depression and the yearning for something that isn’t there; perhaps it’s longing for a person or a happier time, either way, fall has that quiet pensiveness that allows for reflection.
Nothing sets a perfect mood as much as curling up with a warm beverage, snack, and the perfect playlist. As such, with summer fully packed up and fall settled in, here are some music recommendations for that perfectly cozy fall ambiance.
Taylor Swift’s “All Too Well”
Throughout all versions of this iconic song, Taylor Swift embodies autumn in the lyrics, instrumental, and feel. Besides having a “Sad Girl Autumn” version of the song, the lyrics mention the “Autumn leaves falling down like pieces into place.” Quintessential aspects of fall are referenced in lyrics mentioning plaid shirts and warm scarves in the cold wind. Melancholic and nostalgic, the bittersweet recounting of a relationship fits the somber mood that enters with summer’s exit (Today).
Mazzy Star’s “Fade Into You”
Featured in the fall classic comfort show Gilmore Girls, “Fade Into You” is another song with gut wrenching lyrics that hold an inexplicable feeling of autumn. Following Gilmore Girls’ popularity, it reemerges as people begin to rewatch their comfort shows. A calming, warm piece, it fits fall’s tone of solemn longing (Today).
Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September”
A shift from the more subdued songs, “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire is still reflective, but brings a much lighter mood. Much like the unforgettable line “Do you remember the 21st night of September?” suggests, the song is unforgettable, especially as September comes around with the entrance of the colder season. Providing a lighthearted nostalgia and much-needed cheer, this song is the perfect mood-booster on a fall playlist (CET).
The Neighborhood’s “Sweater Weather”
Calming, romantic, and cozy, The Neighborhood perfectly personifies the sweater weather they sing about. The song is the perfect introduction to the colder weather; not winter quite yet, but a time to cuddle up and stay warm. Embodying those dark evenings spent curled up with the TV on, “Sweater Weather” is another great listen (The Heights).
While those are known staples of fall, music is all about customization to every listener’s experience. Fall can be a time of romance and comfort, waiting for even colder weather, or it could be something isolated and sullen. So, what do our Mustangs have in their personal playlists?
Syd Matters’ “To All of You”
When the autumn breeze creeps into her room, Sage Li (11) takes the time to reminisce and listen to her favorite song from her fall playlist, “To All of You” by Syd Mattters. Comforting and nostalgic, she comments, “‘To All of You’ by Syd Matters has been on my fall playlist for about two years now. The soft guitar melodies always take me back to my favorite game, Life is Strange, which is set in October 2013.”
Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game”
Another bittersweet heartbreak turned into a fall favorite, Rui Zhao (10) recommends “Wicked Game” by Christ Isaak for every fall playlist. As the rush of Halloween fades away, Rui feels the song embodies that shift as he voices, “‘Wicked Game’ encapsulates the transformation from spooky Halloween vibes to a deep, melancholic reflection with its eerie yet comforting tone.”
Whether fall is a time of quiet reflection after summer or a sign of brighter times with the holidays, music manages to encapsulate all feelings. These are some recommendations from Mustang to Mustang to create the perfect fall mood. Take this time to indulge in pumpkin spice, warm knit sweaters, and music for the season. Happy fall, Mustangs!
