Fall is a wonderful time of the year where jackets come back in style, the weather gets chillier and warm cozy evenings replace summer parties. Needless to say, this year is no different. Here are nine songs that belong on your fall playlist to help you adjust to the season of comfort:
“Moon Dreams” by Miles Davis
Kicking off the list is an old school classic from the king of jazz: Miles Davis. “Moon Dreams” is a slow, swooning piece that is perfect for relaxing under a blanket in your dorm room. I truly recommend the entire 1957 album, Birth of the Cool, but Moon Dreams is the standout for the season.
“Autumn in New York” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong
It is not ideal to travel during a pandemic, but this rendition of “Autumn in New York” by jazz legends Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong is the next best thing. This song will cut through quarantine blues — bringing the listener to a crisp, romantic afternoon in America’s most famous city.
“September” by Earth, Wind & Fire
Perhaps the most famous song about the fall is Earth, Wind & Fire’s legendary 1978 masterpiece: “September.” Unlike the first two songs, this one is upbeat, funky and the type of tune to hype you up before a difficult exam or to celebrate a special occasion.
“Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest
This song is perfect year-round but especially is a jam in the fall. King Harvest sings of a beautiful dance party in the moonlight, complete with carefree joy and a killer beat. It’s definitely a must-have for when the weather gets colder.
“November” by Tyler, the Creator
November isn’t actually about November the month, but the feelings and anxieties of growing up. In the song, November stands for an idyllic point in one’s life. It’s a reflective, melancholy song that’s perfect for this beautiful time of year.
“Don’t You Worry ’Bout a Thing” by Stevie Wonder
Truth be told, there’s a lot to worry about this fall. However, for four minutes and 44 seconds, Stevie Wonder’s vocals, clever instrumentation and fun lyrics will put you at ease.
“These Walls” by Kendrick Lamar
These Walls is a funky, jazzy release from Kendrick that meditates on the problems and constrictions of fame. It was originally released in October 2015 and fits the mood of the season well. Like other songs on the playlist, it’s smooth and easy to play in the background but satisfying to pay deep attention to.
“Fight the Power” by Public Enemy
This is the most 2020 song on this list. This fall is ripe with political turmoil, but this song is just a simple, powerful reminder to exercise your rights.
“I Wonder” by Kanye West
The final song on this list is a cerebral song from Kanye West’s 2007 masterpiece, Graduation. This song is perfect for this time of year because it’s another reflective, introspective piece that should give you a bit of inspiration to grind through dull online classes. There are millions of songs that are perfect for fall, but these few will steer you in the right direction.
