Recommended Western Music for Autumn: Popular Autumn Songs and Hidden Gems [2025]

AutumnPaolo Nutini

Paolo Nutini – Autumn

Guided by the mature poetic sentiment that seems to flow from lyrics thought to be sung to a beloved grandfather, and by piano tones that capture the unfiltered innocence of a teenage boy, this masterpiece wraps listeners’ bodies and hearts in a rich, soulful voice.

It appears on the debut and smash-hit album These Streets, released in 2006 by Paisley, Scotland–born singer-songwriter Paolo Nutini.

Astonishingly, Paolo was just 19 when he created this work.

If you love blue-eyed soul and haven’t yet discovered him, he’s an artist you should definitely check out.

OctoberU2

U2 – October “October” (1981)

U2, the top band Ireland proudly presents to the world.

Since their debut in 1980, they have never undergone a lineup change, and as a group that has continually led the scene, the four members are respected by countless bands and artists.

Their illustrious history needs no introduction, but since we’re focusing on autumn songs this time, let’s look at the title track from their second album, October, released in 1981.

The Edge handles the piano accompaniment on this track.

Though it’s a short number that’s under two and a half minutes, it’s known as one of the few songs from their second album—whose tracks are rarely performed live—that has occasionally been played.

Its deeply introspective nature makes it a perfect fit for the wistful atmosphere of autumn.

Leave the Door OpenBruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic

Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak, Silk Sonic – Leave the Door Open [Official Video]

A romantic love song that warms you up even on a chilly autumn day is Leave the Door Open by Silk Sonic, the duo of Bruno Mars and Anderson .

Paak.

Released in 2021 as their debut single, it became a classic that reached number one on charts around the world.

Its smooth, mellow sound reminiscent of 1970s soul creates a sophisticated vibe.

It’s definitely a song I recommend for autumn listening!

California Dreamin’The Mamas & The Papas

The Mamas & the Papas – California Dreamin’

A song inspired by Michelle Phillips’s homesickness for her sunny home state of California during the cold season after she moved to New York upon getting married.

A rare pop song featuring a flute solo, it was released as a single in 1965.

Make It Stop (September’s Children)Rise Against

Rise Against – Make It Stop (September’s Children)

A track released in 2011 by the American melodic hardcore band Rise Against.

It was inspired by news of teenage LGBTQ suicides that occurred in September 2010.

Be sure to read the lyrics as well.

Forever AutumnVigrass & Osborne

VIGRASS & OSBORNE – Forever autumn

A lovely ballad originally written in 1969 by Jeff Wayne for a Lego toy commercial.

Lyrics were later added, and it was recorded by Vigrass & Osborne and included on their 1972 album Queues.

The song has been covered by many artists.

When All Is Said And DoneABBA

ABBA – When All Is Said And Done (Video)

Let me introduce a heartbreak song set in autumn: “When All Is Said And Done.” This track, released by the Swedish music group ABBA, focuses primarily on the emptiness and sense of loss that follow a breakup.

Its raw portrayal makes it highly relatable to many listeners.

The song is also known for being featured in films and covered by numerous artists.

Comparing different versions can be a fun way to enjoy it.