21 Best Songs about Autumn
Autumn is a season that paints nature in fiery colors, brings about chilly evenings perfect for bonfires, and inspires many artists to pen down their feelings. So, how about chilling to some of the best autumn-inspired songs?
Here’s the complete list, from classics to modern hits that capture the fall vibes.
1. “Autumn Leaves” by Nat King Cole
Did you seriously think we could start this list without mentioning this classic? This jazz standard has been covered by everyone from Eric Clapton to Eva Cassidy. Its melancholic melody and lyrics about falling leaves and fading love make it a true symbol of autumn.
Fun Fact: The original song, “Les Feuilles Mortes,” was written in French by Joseph Kosma and Jacques Prévert.
2. “The Autumn Stone” by Small Faces
This 1969 tune from the British rock band Small Faces is not only nostalgic in its sound but also in its lyrics. It paints an image of autumn landscapes and is perfect for a scenic drive through foliage-filled lanes.
3. “Wake Me Up When September Ends” by Green Day
Although this song is rooted in personal loss for Billie Joe Armstrong, the Green Day frontman, its title has made it an autumn anthem for many. It captures the transitional spirit of the season, as summer ends and autumn begins.
4. “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire
“Ba de ya, say do you remember?” This funky track might seem like a dance number, but it’s all about September love.
5. “Harvest Moon” by Neil Young
The gentle strums of the guitar and Neil Young’s signature voice paint a beautiful picture of love in the time of fall. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to slow dance in your backyard, under the moonlight.
6. “October” by U2
This is a piano song about the transition and impermanence of things. U2’s melancholic melody perfectly fits the fall mood.
7. “Maggie May” by Rod Stewart
A coming-of-age tale set against the backdrop of autumn. Rod Stewart’s raspy voice sings about the end of summer and moving on.
Fun Fact: “Maggie May” wasn’t originally the A-side track on the single. It just became popular thanks to radio DJs!
8. “Autumn Almanac” by The Kinks
This tune encapsulates everything about British autumn – from roast beef to rainy afternoons.
9. “November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses
This is a song about heartbreak and the fear of loss.
10. “Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground” by The White Stripes
This grungy track by The White Stripes is a beautiful mesh of love, nostalgia, and, of course, dead leaves.
11. “Autumn in New York” by Billie Holiday
Jazz and autumn, they kinda go hand in hand. Billie Holiday’s version of this song was originally written by Vernon Duke. The song paints a vivid picture of New York in the fall – yellow leaves, glistening streets, and that unbeatable charm.
Fun Fact: Multiple artists have covered this song, but Billie’s rendition remains one of the most iconic.
12. “Sweater Weather” by The Neighbourhood
Fast forward to a contemporary autumn anthem. It perfectly describes the thrill and excitement of new love as the weather begins to cool.
13. “Leaves That Are Green” by Simon & Garfunkel
This duo never fails to bring a touch of poetic elegance to their songs. Here, the fleeting nature of time and love are described through the metaphor of changing leaves.
14. “Autumn Sweater” by Yo La Tengo
The indie rock band Yo La Tengo gives us a track about the complexities of love, intertwined with autumn vibes. This song captures the feeling of wanting to be close to someone when the air turns cold.
15. “September Song” by Agnes Obel
This is a stunningly beautiful track by a Danish singer. Its mellow notes and the emotive voice capture the essence of fleeting time and memories associated with the transition of summer to fall.
16. “Autumn Leaves” by Ed Sheeran
Yes, there’s another “Autumn Leaves” on this list, but it’s vastly different from Nat King Cole’s classic. Sheeran’s acoustic ballad touches on themes of loss and memory. It’s a perfect song for introspective evenings.
17. “November” by Tom Waits
This ballad is as melancholy as November rain. It’s dark, it’s broody, and it’s the perfect for those autumn nights.
18. “Autumn Love” by Death Cab for Cutie
If you’ve ever felt like fall is the season for reflection and memories, then “Autumn Love” will resonate with you. The song talks about searching for a connection and dealing with loneliness.
19. “Indian Summer” by The Doors
The Doors capture the essence of the transitional phase from the warm days of summer to the chilly days of fall.
20. “Hard to Explain” by The Strokes
While not an autumn song per se, the vibe of this classic from The Strokes perfectly complements the autumn mood. It’s a song about fleeting moments and trying to hold onto them.
21. “Autumn” by Paolo Nutini
This Scottish singer-songwriter has a knack for evoking strong emotions. In “Autumn,” Nutini croons about love, loss, and the changing seasons.
Autumn is an indescribable beauty, a mixture of emotions and a little nostalgia. Amber shades, fresh air and a cozy atmosphere of autumn are something truly special.
This time of year has the ability to make us reflect, and appreciate the fleeting beauty of nature and life. And this is perfectly conveyed in these songs.
