It’s finally fall, which means it’s pumpkin spice latte, sweaters and scary movie season — my favorite. It also means it’s time to add some autumn flair to your playlists to get into the cozy spirit of the season.
‘we fell in love in october’ — girl in red
If this hasn’t been the very first track on your fall playlist for years, what are you doing? This song was my first introduction to the brilliant songwriting of girl in red. Almost all of her music gives fall energy in some way, but this song, as well as its sequel, “October Passed Me By,” are some of the ultimate fall tracks to kick off the season.
‘Rhiannon’ — Fleetwood Mac
This is one of my all-time favorite songs. No matter where I am or what I have going on, it immediately lifts my spirits and changes my mood. Stevie Nicks herself said the song is about a witch, so the fall vibes are immaculate. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to skip this song, no matter the circumstances.
‘Halloween’ — Phoebe Bridgers
The title pretty much gives this one away, but to be completely honest, most of Bridgers’ discography could fit into a fall playlist. “Halloween” encapsulates that seasonal energy beautifully — can you tell I’m excited for spooky season?
‘All Too Well’ — Taylor Swift
Swift’s “All Too Well” is one of my favorite fall pieces. The “Red” album is my favorite of hers for autumn specifically. It captures the energy of the season so beautifully, making it feel like you’re on your front porch bundled up in a scarf, drinking hot cocoa with cinnamon and watching the leaves fall. There’s something so cozy and nostalgic about it — I can’t recommend it enough.
‘Edge of Seventeen’ — Stevie Nicks
I think the bulk of Nicks’ discography, like many others in this playlist, would fit here. However, “Edge of Seventeen” gives more of an upbeat twist to contrast the rest of the songs on here while still giving that fall energy we all love.
‘twilight zone’ — Ariana Grande
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In addition to being a beautiful song, coupled with Grande’s mind-blowing vocals, the metaphor of the “Twilight Zone” qualifies it as a fall song for me. It’s a little creepy and unsettling to think about, but it’s also absolutely stunning.
‘The Ballad of Sweeney Todd’ — Stephen Sondheim
It wouldn’t be one of my playlists without at least one musical theater song. “Sweeney Todd” alone is incredibly spooky, so the main opening ballad is the perfect way to incorporate a little bit of Broadway into your life this fall season. Also, if you haven’t seen the show, I absolutely recommend checking it out.
‘No Return’ — Alanis Morissette
Morissette covered the theme from “Yellowjackets” for an episode of the show, and it’s fantastic. Her vocals match the vibe of the song perfectly, and it gives off the energy of running for your life through the wilderness. It’s kind of terrifying, so it’s great for the fall season. Plus, everyone needs more Morissette in their lives, right?
Stella Powers is a senior journalism and media and communication major from Wooster, Ohio. Powers is the Culture Editor for The Student and former Editor-in-Chief of The Miami Student Magazine. Outside of TMS, she enjoys film, television and theater.



