Fall is the season of change and with it we see shifts in everything. Time to switch the clothes in our closets back to pants and warm sweaters, head back to school from vacation and start classes, and with the help of this list switch up the songs in your playlist too. The right music can make any moment better and that is what we have here. Just a few recommendations that will add to your fall memories. Whether your taste is main-stream pop, more traditional, or if you just appreciate some background music there should be something for you in this list.Â
- “Harvest moon” – Neil young
-
“Harvest Moon” is the title drop song of Young’s 21st studio album. He released this piece on the second of November ’92, and since that fall it has become a classic. The real astrological event of a harvest moon is marked as the full moon seen closest to the autumnal equinox. In his song, Young sings about the beauty of this moon and connects it with the beauty of his lover. “Harvest Moon” is a timeless love song, and its relaxing melody makes it great for listening on a walk-through campus.
- “Tonight, tonight” – the smashing pumpkins
-
“Tonight, Tonight” was released in 1996 as the fourth single for The Smashing Pumpkins’ album Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. The alternative rock band is already festive by name. The lyrics of the song reference change and the passage of time, reflective of the transformative nature of the season. The song features a 30-piece string section, making the sound wildly nostalgic. Perfect for going on a drive to reminisce and look at the foliage.
- “autumn in new york” – frank sinatra
-
“Autumn In New York” could not be perfect for fall if it tried. Almost anything by Sinatra is a classic and this is no different. “Autumn In New York” was released on Come Fly with Me in 1958. Production is done by Billy May featuring his orchestra, creating a nostalgic, timeless feel with the sound of strings. Sinatra sings of feeling home and appreciates the unique and romantic experience of the transition to autumn in the city. “Autumn In New York” would serve as exceptional background music for seasonal baking with family or friends.
- “All too well” – taylor swift
-
This is a recommendation list for college girls so of course Taylor is making an appearance. “All Too Well” was released with Taylor’s fourth studio album, Red, in fall of 2012. It was released again in November of 2021 on Red (Taylor’s Version). This time, accompanied by the popular uncut ten-minute version. A lot of girls grew up on Taylor and even if you didn’t, “Autumn leaves falling down like pieces into place – and I can picture it – After all these days,” is nostalgia provoking lyricism. The Red album has a lot of songs that fans tend to associate with fall including “Begin Again” (featuring Ed Sheeran). But this track specifically is a fall hit. Its ten-minute version music video features most scenes depicting the season. With its descriptive storytelling and familiarity “All Too Well” is a great addition to your playlist for while you make fall memories with your friends.
- “great pumpkin waltz” – vince guaraldi
-
This list has included classics, rock, and mainstream pop. If none of these have felt right for you yet, maybe some jazz will be the next addition to your playlist. Vince Guaraldi Trio is most famous for their work with Peanuts by Charles M. Schwartz. Guaraldi is a jazz pianist and is the one who adds the homey, nostalgic element to the Peanuts series. This piece was composed for the television special “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.” This piece was re-released in 2022 after refinement for a more streamlined listening experience without the rough cuts attributed to it through the animation. The coziness associated with the Peanuts cartoon series is the same feeling you get listening to this song. This could be relaxing for some background music while carving or painting pumpkins. After all, it’s in the name.
There is so much great music out there that reflects the vibrant, emotional, and nostalgic feel of the fall season. As the days get shorter and the air turns cooler, enjoy the quiet moments as much as the ones spent with family and friends. Whether you are picking apples, pumpkins, or what scary movie to watch, enjoy these fresh picks to make your season festive.
Can’t get enough of HC UMass Amherst? Be sure to follow us on Instagram, listen to us on Spotify, like us on Facebook, and read our latest Tweets!Â