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Writer's pictureCAITLIN CALLAHAN

Seasonal songs

No matter what time of year, many people enjoy listening to different types of music. In the summer, people might choose to listen to upbeat pop and rap while in the car with the windows rolled down to enjoy the sunny weather. In the fall, some tend to switch to moodier music to match the changing season and falling leaves. These songs make the perfect autumn and winter playlist that is necessary to tough out the chilly weather.


The upbeat 1982 soft-rock song “I Melt With You” by Modern English can be played year-round, but the romantic lyrics fit right into the cozy nature of autumn. Something about the combination of acoustic guitar and synth makes for a feel-good, classic song that makes a perfect backdrop for a chilly fall day.


“Don’t Dream It’s Over” by Crowded House is a dreamy—no pun intended—1986 love song with romantic lyrics that make a fall night perfect.


The Irish classic “Dreams” by The Cranberries is a recognizable coming-of-age tune that reflects the whimsical and cherishing essence of fall. “This Is the Day” by The The, released in 1983, is a bittersweet song that follows the Cranberries narrative of coming-of-age, its lyrics reflecting a hope for change. The downtrodden protagonist is easy to imagine walking down a leaf-covered sidewalk.


The mysteriously romantic song “Something In My Eye” by Matt Berry is about saying goodbye to a lover. The mix of string instruments creates a mysterious tune that blends in with the chilly weather of late fall. The cheerful song “Real Love Baby” by Father John Misty creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for autumn. It’s easy to imagine the song playing quietly on a record player in the corner of a room and curling up with a good book.


The melodic strumming of Mazzy Star’s “Halah” sounds like how snowflakes falling on your eyelashes feel. This song fits perfectly with the first snow. Jeff Buckley’s desperate voice and lyrics in “Grace” present the story of drowning his sorrows in love. The sad theme reflects the cold feeling of blizzard winds whipping past your face in the cold winter.


The Smiths never make songs about being happy, so “Bigmouth Strikes Again” makes perfect sense to listen to on a dreary, snowy day. Joy Division’s “Love Will Tear Us Apart” is another melancholy, synthy, soft-rock 80’s song that lifts your spirits until you listen to the lyrics. The depressing lyricism of the song fits perfectly with the dismal winter season.


The sad strumming in Big Thief’s “Velvet Ring” makes one feel like they are buried in heavy, freezing snow. The lyrics themselves are not what makes this song fit into the snowy season, but the melancholy emotions that the instrumentals evoke.


Mazzy Star’s somber melody strikes again with “Be My Angel.” The graceful, peaceful tune evokes a tranquil feeling just like a fresh blanket of snow on a cloudless night. “Lorelei” by the Cocteau Twins is refreshing and bright, but glum. The French lyrics are impossible to decipher for those who don’t speak the language, but the universal language of tune soothes the soul.


“These Days” by Nico is a somber-toned conclusion to this playlist. Nico’s unique deep voice sends shivers down the spine like a gust of freezing wind. Take a listen to this playlist to brave the transition from leaves on the ground to snow beginning to fall.

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