I don’t know about you guys, but I am obsessed with fall. The foliage, the food, the fashion… but most importantly, the music! I love to craft a good Spotify playlist (sorry to all you Apple Music lovers out there), so I thought I’d share some of my autumn favorites. And though I love songs like All Too Well (because… Taylor Swift forever and always) and Feathered Indians (since Tyler Childers is having a moment), I’m going to try to dive deeper into my musical library.
My first pick is probably one of my favorite songs of all time, because it feels exactly like curling up in front of the fire with a warm blanket and hot cup of cider. That would be “Apple Pie” by Lizzy McAlpine. Lizzy is gaining some traction, so you may know her already, but I would be doing a disservice if I didn’t mention this song. First off, the title gives the feel away – what could be more fall than apple pie? Even more, the lyrics convey the same comfort that fall provides, with sweet sentiments like “home is wherever you are tonight”. Lizzy’s first album, “Give Me a Minute”, is full of autumnal-feeling songs, but I would recommend this as your new go-to.
The next song I want to recommend is “Hearts on Fire” by Jessie Reid. Reid is an English-based singer who uses her latest single to craft an almost smoky feel. This song has a slight rasp to it, and in my opinion, the driving force mixed with comforting vocals gives off autumn vibes. Plus, the track cover reminds me of a fall bonfire. A great song to listen to at night, “Hearts on Fire” will help you wind down while keeping you engrossed.
My next recommendation comes courtesy of the Troy Farmer’s Market. While walking around over the summer, I heard a local artist who caught my attention, called AGE of the BEAR. Known to friends and family as Anthony Cubbage, he crafted his debut album in various national parks. This shows through the earthy nature of his music, and provides a basis for the perfect fall song. I chose “Worthwhile” to add to this list, because the guitar provokes a sense of calm and comfort. Though the lyrics are a bit depressing (see “Why I even try so hard to be something that I’m not when we all die”), sometimes a song is more about the feel than the actual lyrics.
The final song I want to take a deep dive into (but don’t worry, I’ll make some rapid-fire recommendations after!) is “Amazing Eyes” by Good Old War. This song got my mom’s stamp of approval, which means nothing to you all but hopefully lets you know that it’s a fan favorite. The lyrics are a sharp contrast to my previous recommendation, portraying the musings of a man in love. The background vocals add to the sweetness of the song, and the instrumentation brings it all together to create the perfect tune for a nice fall nature walk. Plus, the top listeners to this band are in Denver, CO, a place that I feel perfectly encapsulates the autumnal spirit.
As promised, I do have a few final suggestions to improve your fall playlists! Halloween by Novo Amor is great, as is Stick Season by Noah Kahan. I’d Have to Think About It by Leith Ross is a sweet love song that can add some heart to your day, and Season of the Witch by Donovan fulfills the oldies heart of anybody listening. Finally, North Carolina by Little Chief is a great song to unwind to. Happy listening!