One of the greatest feelings in this world, in my opinion, happens when we listen to music that makes us feel a certain way—we often listen to music that drives home various thoughts of loneliness, love, hate, spite, or any emotion that one could think of. It’s one of the greatest things about music; emotion, as it is paired with music, is accentuated and stretched in our minds so that present feelings weave their way through, running through the sundry neural pathways across our brain and permeating every thought we have.
If you want cozy thoughts of autumn to make their way through your mind on a crisp fall morning or clear fall night, then listen to the following songs. If you like these songs, then head to the QR code below!
Autumn Leaves by Benny Golson
Though Golson might not be a household name in today’s society, I felt that the recently deceased saxophonist deserved a place on this list. His ability as a virtuosic player and as a ballad player speaks to his vast range in jazz and his great musicianship. “Autumn Leaves” was released on Golson’s fifth album, Gone with Golson (1959), and features Curtis Fuller on trombone, Ray Bryant on piano, Tommy Bryant on bass, and Al Harewood on drums. Fuller’s beautiful tone and Bryant’s wonderfully straightforward playing style make for a fun and relaxing listening experience. Golson’s own playing, of course, cannot be understated as a truly delightful adaptation of the jazz classic. This piece definitely shows both his flashy side and his ballad-type style, as well as his understanding of swingin’ rhythms.
Sunday by The Cranberries
The Cranberries definitely represent a different side of “autumn” than Golson does. But their blend of a muted orchestral background and slow, smooth singing on “Sunday,” released on their debut album, Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We? (1993), exemplifies those feelings that fall always brings.
Feelin’ the Same Way by Norah Jones
Norah Jones’s wonderful vocals and jazzy piano playing make her debut album Come Away With Me (2002) a great listen no matter the season. “Feelin’ the Same Way,” the fourth track of the album, grants listeners a moving beat, but a slow melody; it’s pure musical genius.
Stormy Weather by Etta James
Etta James combines classics of the ‘50s style with her incredible voice to make one of the greatest albums ever made: At Last!, released in 1960. “Stormy Weather” describes love under the guise of autumnal weather, making the song a perfect listen on a dark and rainy day.
The Axe 