I’m a person who firmly believes that there’s a playlist for every occasion, especially when that occasion involves anything fall. Whether you’re studying on campus or curled up in your room, this playlist provides the perfect vibes for yearning, reflecting on the changing seasons and coming to terms with the cold suddenly plaguing the air. Here are some of my favorite songs out of the 35 (which are all amazing):
‘Pyramids’ – Frank Ocean
This song is almost 10 minutes of literal perfection. It has the most incredible tempo for power-walking around campus and soaking up the last bits of sunlight the season offers. The background music and beat are undeniably fall to me, and I will not be accepting any criticism of this song or its inclusion in the playlist.
‘Same Ol’ Mistakes’ – Rihanna
I am a fervent Tame Impala lover (did you know it’s just one guy?), and this Rihanna cover is ridiculously underhyped. I don’t think enough people know about it, and the iconic song gets an amazing revamp here that feels more in sync with the changing of the season, and I almost like it more than the original.
‘Trouble - Unpeeled’ – Cage the Elephant
Live music feels more appropriate for fall in a way I just can’t explain. I love this song, and the live version makes it so much more complex and impactful to me. It feels to me like the looming threat of gloom will come peacefully, showing how cozy fall should be before the real cold sets in.
‘Creep - Acoustic’ – Radiohead
This song is so purely fall in a way that connects the festivity, allure of Halloween and the crisp air the weather brings. The acoustic version strips away the rock concept of the original and makes it more raw and intimate, a sound that feels more autumnal and vibey to match the tempo and beats of the rest of the playlist.
‘Mind Over Matter (Reprise)’ – Young the Giant
“Mind Over Matter” is the song I play to remind myself that whatever I’m stressing about is not the end of the world. The reprise is a slowed, softer version of the original that feels more suitable to this kind of chilly weather. The message remains that throughout time, everything keeps moving and literally references how when the seasons change, some things will still remain.
‘Goodbye Yellow Brick Road’ – Elton John
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Elton John is one of my favorite artists of all time, and I’m honored to say I’ve seen him live. This song is so meaningful to me, and I fully sobbed hearing it live, especially knowing it was his last tour. It feels like saying goodbye to summer and warm weather, and entering a new era of pumpkin spice and family drama.
‘Thought of You’ – Ole 60
Ole 60 is incredible, especially with their lyricism, and this song is a great example. It’s a perfect song for fall yearning, capturing the picturesque romance of falling in love in the fall. The lyrics directly mention November, so it felt almost sacrilegious not to include this. I know the genre might not match the vibe, but the lyrics and sentiment definitely do, so give it a fighting chance.
I’m a self-proclaimed playlist connoisseur, and I hope this playlist will solidify my role for all you lovely readers.