By: Hayley Zugaro
There are many things people look forward to in fall; changing leaves, pumpkin spice lattes, and corn mazes to name a few. In my opinion, none of these experiences compare to the satisfaction of breaking out my fall playlist once again.
Curating the perfect playlist for every specific mood is one of my favorite pastimes. With the arrival of fall, I would highly recommend crafting a cozy little playlist to accompany you on all of your fall walks, study sessions, coffee runs, and more. If you are not quite sure what a fall playlist should consist of, look no further; I will provide some inspiration. The classification of songs as fall-esque is highly subjective, but to me, the following songs embody this time of year.
1. “The Great Pumpkin Waltz” by Vince Guaraldi
My first fall song suggestion is an obvious one: “The Great Pumpkin Waltz” by Vince Guaraldi. Known for composing most of the soundtracks for the “Peanuts” television adaptations, Vince Guaraldi’s jazzy riffs provide the ideal ambiance for any fall moment. Because it’s instrumental, this song makes for a great listen while studying as well.
2. “Clay Pigeons” by Michael Cera
My next suggestion is a song by actor Michael Cera, of all people. His song “Clay Pigeons” has an element of sentimentality to it, which is fitting for a time of year when change and reflection are prevalent. Something about the changing of the seasons makes me feel oddly contemplative, like Michael Cera when he says “I could build me a castle of memories just to have somewhere to go.”
3. “Gypsy” by Fleetwood Mac
No fall playlist is complete without a song by Fleetwood Mac, and to me, “Gypsy” encapsulates the wonderment of the season. A perfect song for frolicking through the leaves, “Gypsy” strays from the other cozier, more subdued fall songs with its light-hearted beat.
4. “Spooky” by Dusty Springfield
If you’re looking for a song to ease into the Halloween season with, “Spooky” by Dusty Springfield provides an ominous ambiance without being outright tacky. Dusty’s chilling vocals immediately put you in the mood for this spooky time of year, and may even have you looking forward to nights getting longer. The ideal time to listen to this song is “in the cool of the evening when everything is getting’ kind of groovy.”
5. “Harvest Moon” by Neil Young
“Harvest Moon” by Neil Young is a very timely song for the fall season, seeing as the harvest moon’s arrival signifies the autumnal equinox. The warm sound and soft strumming of the guitar evoke feelings of nostalgia. “Harvest Moon” is the ultimate comfort song, perfect for gazing at picturesque fall landscapes.
6. “Autumn in New York” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong
I’m sure many of us have fantasized about experiencing the changing of seasons in New York City, and apparently so did Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong in “Autumn in New York.” Warm and relaxing, this song is very fitting for an autumnal playlist. This jazzy tune begs the question we all ask ourselves, “Autumn in New York, why does it seem so inviting?”.
There is an endless supply of fall-sounding songs; I wish I could name them all. From acoustic and outdoorsy to mellow and jazzy, many genres can be included in this category. Whether you’re just now discovering the art of the fall playlist or looking for new additions to yours, I hope I was able to introduce you to some new songs that epitomize the season. Happy fall and happy listening!