Head Over Heels – Tears for Fears
This song reminds me of the opening scene of Donnie Darko, one of my favorite fall movies, about a kid’s hallucination of the end of the world. This song is also just a new-wave classic, the perfect kind of music to enjoy during this season.
Rainy Day – Susan Christine
Other than new wave or alternative, one of the most appropriate fall genres is of course folk, and this song is a perfect example of how fitting it is. Her downbeat song albums like Paint a Lady are a peaceful addition to a mellow afternoon and will always suit a rainy day well.
The Nightingale – Julee Cruise
Like the foremost song, this piece makes me think of one of my favorite shows, Twin Peaks. It’s a murder mystery, and as the plot slowly unravels throughout a slow and twisting show, so does the community at hand. This is all ultimately very typical of writer and director, David Lynch, who, if you can stand the dark aura of Twin Peaks, has also created many other bizarre stories, like that of Eraserhead and Mulholland Drive, all excellently weird movies to watch during this dreary time of year.
Only When I’m Dreaming – Minnie Riperton
If you don’t care for the dark energy of the previous show or song, Minnie Riperton’s whimsical, soul music will surely suit you much better. Honestly, I could listen to her all year long, but when the leaves change color, I always want to celebrate with her fanciful jazz.
September Song – Eartha Kitt
There are maybe hundreds of different “September Songs” out there, but this one is without a doubt my favorite of them all. It’s old and sounds like it could be from a Disney Princess movie, but I think it’s purely magical. A bit older than the other choices on this list, but a comforting, nostalgic song for autumn nonetheless.
Flowers In December – Mazzy Star
This song may be the closest I will ever get to country, and yet it’s still one of my favorites on this whole list. Mazzy Star is the master of melancholy, and even with a harmonica, her music is still slow and quiet, like a December day. This entire album is very delicate, especially during this serene season.
Sleeping Lessons – The Shins
I could sleep to this song every time it comes on. The backing track specifically is rhythmic, I could listen to the piano riff at the beginning all on its own for hours on end. I honestly wish The Shins would release that version so I can sleep to it.
Fool in the Rain – Led Zeppelin We end with possibly the most upbeat song on this playlist, and surprisingly that is a Led Zeppelin song. I feel like the lyrics paint the scene of a dark, gloomy day that I can relish in all the better when it is dark and gloomy outside. This is the perfect time of year to enjoy Fool in the Rain, so listen while it’s still meteorologically relevant!