It’s October now, which means it’s time to kiss those last remnants of summer goodbye. But don’t be sad – fall is a wonderful time! It may be a little colder now, but that gives you all the more reason to grab some blankets, get yourself a cup of hot apple cider, and watch the leaves fall. Once you’re snuggly and warm, you’ll definitely want to listen to this acoustic autumn playlist, which was hand-picked to get you into the “fall” mood. So get your fuzzy socks on, curl up by the fire, and press play.
1. "Youth" – Daughter
The soft, haunting vocals and compelling instrumentals make this song the perfect start to your autumn chill-out session. This is one of the English indie-folk band Daughter's more famous pieces, and with its meaningful lyrics and passionate performance, it’s easy to see why.
2. "Welcome Home, Son" – Radical Face
Whether you’re curled up under blankets or outside feeling the October chill, this song will leave you feeling relaxed and calm. The vocal harmonies and strumming of the guitar is the perfect combination for a cool fall day.
3. "Above The Clouds Of Pompeii" – Bear’s Den
This song by the British alternative-folk band Bear's Den is heartbreaking but beautiful. What starts as a simple melody develops into a beautiful rendition, focused around the phrase, “Don’t cry, hold your head up high, she would want you to.” Maybe keep a tissue or two on hand while you’re listening, just in case.
4. "Barcelona" – George Ezra
On a bit of a lighter note, George Ezra’s rich, soulful voice will sing you into a reverie. You’ll dream of lazy days in Barcelona, while gazing up at the clouds moving through the autumn sky.
5. "Helplessness Blues" – Fleet Foxes
The Fleet Foxes’ signature consistent harmonies and classic folksy tone makes this the perfect song to listen to on a chilly October day. You’ll dream of log cabins and crackling fires as this deep, complex tune fills your ears.
6. "The Fear" – Ben Howard
This song is upbeat, entrancing, and still manages to bring a sense of calm to its listeners. Ben Howard’s unique voice will bring you peace and comfort as you sip your cider and watch the leaves flutter by.
7. "Sunday Morning" (acoustic) – Maroon 5
A classic song we all know and love – how could I leave this off the list? An acoustic twist on Maroon 5’s beloved song sets the perfect tone for lazy autumn mornings. This song will remind you of the little joys life has to offer, leaving you feeling happy and content.
8. "Georgia" – Vance Joy
You’ve probably heard his hit song “Riptide,” but Vance Joy does it again with “Georgia.” This song is a beautifully crafted piece of music, combining heartfelt lyrics with passionate vocals and instrumentals.
9. "Blood Bank" – Bon Iver
Can you really have a fall playlist without Bon Iver? The epitome of autumn “chill,” Bon Iver once again utilizes vocal harmonies and muted guitar strumming to put his listeners into a musical trance.
10. "To Build a Home" – The Cinematic Orchestra
This song is a beautiful combination of flawless piano instrumentation, harmonious vocals, and powerful lyrics. You won’t find a tune quite this expressive and emotional anywhere else. Pull your blankets a little tighter, close your eyes, and let The Cinematic Orchestra provide the soundtrack for a perfect fall evening.
11. "Rivers and Roads" – The Head and the Heart
Performed by the indie-folk band The Head and Heart, this song has a waltz-y feel mixed with lots of instrumental and vocal layering. It’s perfect for relaxing with a cup of tea or taking a brisk morning walk through the autumn air.
12. "Heart’s On Fire" – Passenger
Famous for his single “Let Her Go,” Passenger utilizes his unique tone and extraordinary musical talent to create a ballad that you’ll be humming for days. (And if you like this, check out his duet version with Ed Sheeran. It will blow your mind.)
13. "Blackbird" – The Beatles
“Blackbird” is a Beatles classic and a true masterpiece that has survived decades. Originally written in response to the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, this tune features a simple melody with some not-so-simple instrumentals from the guitar. The intricate finger-picking and soft chirping of the blackbird will leave you feeling calm and at peace.
14. "O" – Coldplay
A quiet tune featuring beautiful piano rhythms, this lesser-known track from a well-known band is a song you need in your life. Coldplay is famous for their expressive musicality and deep lyrics – and “O” is certainly no disappointment.
15. "Give Me Love" – Ed Sheeran
My personal all-time favorite song, “Give Me Love” is a masterpiece of musicality. Ed Sheeran will give you chills with his moving lyrics and passionate vocals. This song takes you on a journey, building and building with each phrase, eventually culminating in an explosion of harmonies. It’s the perfect end to a relaxing fall evening.
