As the seasons change, so do we. Our style, environment, habits and even the music we listen to often shift with the time of year. There’s always one song that instantly takes you back to a particular season—whether it’s summer, fall or winter. This fall, I explored what songs and genres people commonly associate with autumn. A few years ago, I curated my own autumn playlist, which I revisit every year as the season begins. Over time, it has become a ritual that helps me connect with the season and feel more in tune with the cozy, reflective atmosphere of fall.
Fall’s Musical Vibes
When people think of fall, they often associate it with soft and mellow music genres like jazz, neo-soul and indie pop. These genres seem to reflect the slower pace of the season, as cooler weather and shorter days encourage people to slow down and savor the moment. It’s no surprise that fall playlists often feature songs with warm tones, soothing melodies, and introspective lyrics.
Social media plays a significant role in shaping fall’s musical aesthetics. Posts of pumpkin patches, steaming cups of coffee and cozy sweaters shared on Instagram are almost always paired with slow, nostalgic songs. But why is this the case? Is it about following trends, romanticizing the season, or creating a mood that matches fall’s quieter, more reflective energy?
Emerson Crews (12) frequently posts fall-themed content on her Instagram, pairing her posts with songs like “Kiss Me” by Sixpence None the Richer and “Luna” by The Smashing Pumpkins. Crews explained that choosing the right song is just as important as the imagery she shares. “The music has to match the vibe,” she said.
For Ava Sanchez (11), jazz and soul music feel like the perfect soundtrack for autumn. “My staple song for the fall has to be ‘I’d Rather Go Blind’ by Etta James,” Sanchez said. “I chose this song because I feel like the jazz and soul genres fit the fall vibe. There’s something about the richness of the music that feels cozy and timeless.”
Similarly, Presley Perry (11), associates fall with music that evokes nostalgia and warmth. “It’s hard to pick between ‘Fade Into You’ and ‘Reflecting Light’ by Sam Phillips,” Perry said. “It reminds me of Gilmore Girls, and it has a fall vibe I don’t really know how to describe.”
These personal connections highlight how music can capture the feeling of a season, whether through its lyrics, melody or even the memories it brings back.
Seasonal Classics
Some songs transcend genres and become staples for specific times of the year, replayed year after year. Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”, for example, has become synonymous with Halloween. Its iconic beat, haunting theme and unforgettable dance moves have made it a must-play at Halloween parties and events since its release in 1982.
Another fall favorite is “Somebody’s Watching Me,” a collaboration between Rockwell and Michael Jackson. With its eerie synthesizers and playful paranoia, the song perfectly captures the spooky fun of Halloween. These tracks, along with others like “Monster Mash” and “Ghostbusters,” are featured on Apple Music’s Halloween Essentials Playlist, cementing their status as seasonal classics.
But seasonal classics aren’t just about Halloween. Jazz standards such as those by Nat “King” Cole or Frank Sinatra also find a home in fall playlists. Their timeless quality and heartfelt lyrics evoke the warmth and nostalgia that many people associate with autumn.
A Personal Autumn Playlist
For me, fall wouldn’t be complete without the classics by Nat “King” Cole. Songs like “’Tis Autumn” and “Autumn Leaves” carry romantic and reflective messages that beautifully capture the essence of the season. The lyrics remind me to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the changing leaves, the crisp air and the fleeting moments of fall.
My playlist also includes more modern tracks that feel like fall. Artists like The Neighbourhood, Fleetwood Mac and Bon Iver create music with soft, acoustic elements and introspective tones that perfectly complement the season. There’s something about their sound that makes you want to wrap yourself in a blanket, sip hot chocolate and light a cinnamon candle.
Creating an autumn playlist is more than just curating songs—it’s about capturing a mood and building memories that will make each fall feel unique.
Conclusion
Music has a unique ability to reflect the feelings and atmosphere of the seasons, and fall is no exception. Whether it’s the cozy nostalgia of jazz, the haunting tones of Halloween classics, or the soft melodies of indie pop, everyone has their own soundtrack for autumn.
As the leaves change colors and the air grows cooler, the right playlist can make the season feel even more special. The songs we listen to during fall become more than just background noise—they become part of the memories we carry with us. No matter your taste in music, fall offers the perfect opportunity to explore new sounds or revisit old favorites that bring the season to life. So, as you enjoy autumn beauty, let your playlist be the soundtrack to the moments that make this season unforgettable.