Happy October, and happy fall! If you’re anything like me, you’re more than ready for pumpkin patches, apple cider, and some stunning fall foliage. There are few things I enjoy more than getting cozy on a crisp fall evening with a big sweatshirt and a cup of tea. In preparation for this wonderful time of year, I made a playlist full of fall vibes that I personally think is amazing. I picked some of my favorites below — some classics, a couple oldies, and maybe even one or two you haven’t heard before. Keep reading for some stellar songs to get you in the mood for fall!
- “Timshel” – Mumford & Sons
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I feel like there’s no better way to start this list than with a Mumford & Sons song. “Timshel” starts with a gentle guitar melody and vocals that build up in power as the song goes on. The lyrics artfully describe choosing to carry on rather than succumb to life’s difficulties, a beautiful sentiment strengthened by the chorus professing that “you are not alone in this.” This song is perfect for your walk home from classes after a busy day. Enjoy the soothing but empowering message, and maybe even stop for a pumpkin spice latte.
- “Castle on the hill” – Ed Sheeran
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This song is one of my favorites — the instrumentals at the beginning of the song before Ed starts singing get me so excited every time I hear it. Ed reminisces about his childhood home and friends over a powerful track with a great baseline. The driving beat pushes the story forward, and the guitar melody in the background ties everything together. This song makes me want to drive around with the windows down with my friends from home. Who cares if it’s a little chilly?
- “Home” – Dotan
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I think this song has a similar vibe to “Castle on the Hill” with a strong drum beat and a message about homecoming. However, “Home” is a more haunting piece of music, featuring a chorus with an almost chant-like feel to it. There are several references to nature throughout the lyrics that are just beautiful. This song will get you hyped up for whatever it is you have to tackle that day. I highly recommend listening to it as you’re getting ready for the day, preferably with a nice hot cup of coffee or tea.
- “Shooting Star” – Bad Company
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“Shooting Star” is definitely a change of pace compared to our first three songs, but trust me, it’s a good one. This song, released in 1975, tells the story of a boy named Johnny and his rise to fame that ultimately ends in his early death after a whirlwind career. Hear me out: I know that the premise may not scream “fall vibes,” but the relaxed guitar melody, narrative style of the lyrics, and punctuating drum beats will make you want to sit by a campfire with some friends and sing along.
- “She Lit a Fire” – Lord Huron
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Finally, a love song! Well, I guess “She Lit a Fire” isn’t your typical love song, but I think it might be even better. The singer can’t stop thinking about a girl he saw fleetingly and is determined to find her, even if he has to search the entire world. The song’s sweet lyrics are complemented by a gentle melody that’ll have you swaying along without realizing it. For the best fall vibes listening experience, I recommend getting cozy in a sweatshirt and slippers. Bonus points if it’s with someone you love.
- “Have you ever seen the rain?” – Creedence clearwater revival
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Here’s another oldie, though don’t be fooled. Even if you don’t think you’ve heard this song before, I’m almost certain that you have. The upbeat instrumental melody pairs nicely with imagery of rain during a sunny day, giving the song a slightly melancholy yet hopeful feel. This lyrical imagery beautifully expresses the message that you can’t have the good without the bad, and the strong vocals and baseline make this song perfect for a solo drive through some gorgeous fall foliage, rain or shine.
- “beige” – yoke lore
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This is one of my favorite songs at the moment. The singer tells of wanting to know the heart and soul of the girl he loves rather than the parts of herself she lets everyone see. The stunning lyrics are complemented by dreamy, indie-pop instrumentals with a subtle guitar melody that ties everything together. It’s this almost folksy guitar sound that gives me fall vibes in this song. I 10/10 suggest listening to “Beige” on your walk to class, with a crisp breeze and colorful leaves to complete the fall mood!
- “no body, no crime” – Taylor Swift (feat. haim)
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Last but not least, we have “no body, no crime.” I don’t think anyone is surprised. While Taylor has a plethora of songs that will get you in the mood for fall, I’ve been hitting repeat for “no body, no crime” the most. The haunting lyrics will get you ready for spooky season, and the instrumentals on the track have an almost folksy feel to them that’ll make you want to simultaneously bake an apple pie and solve a murder mystery of your own!
And there you have it, folks — 8 songs that will get you in the mood for fall! Music can have such a powerful influence over our moods and mindsets, so take some time to find a few songs that can carry you through the chilly months. There’s a little bit of everything on this list, so I hope you were able to find a new favorite or two to add to your own fall playlist. Grab your earbuds, your favorite fall drink, and a blanket. Happy listening!
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