Lovely autumn song

[2025] Classic Western songs to listen to in November: recommended popular tracks

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!

As autumn deepens and the first hints of winter begin to creep in, November has a certain melancholy that makes you want to drift into contemplation, doesn’t it?

What kind of music do you listen to during this delicate change of seasons?

In this article, under the theme “Songs to Listen to in November,” we’ve put together a selection of wonderful Western classics—across all genres—from tracks that explicitly feature November to songs that simply match the mood of the month.

Some titles make it obvious they’re November songs, but we’ve also included tracks where you realize November is the setting only after reading the lyrics.

Take this opportunity to check them out!

[2025] Masterpieces of Western music to listen to in November: Recommended popular songs (71–80)

Cold November WindKeith Curtis

Cold November Wind (2008 Version)

Cold November WindKeith Curtis

Speaking of November, it’s the season when the chill really sets in.

Many people may also find their mood dipping this time of year.

For those folks, I recommend this song: “Cold November Wind.” It’s performed by a country musician named Keith Curtis.

While he’s somewhat under the radar, he’s highly regarded by overseas aficionados for his classic country sound.

This track, too, is crafted as a bona fide country song, showcasing the genre’s signature warm, comforting sound.

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Yeah BoyKelsea Ballerini

Kelsea Ballerini – Yeah Boy (Official Music Video)

Yeah BoyKelsea Ballerini

A song about a fun youth, yearning for a romantic relationship with the man she has feelings for.

It was released as a digital download in 2016 by Kelsea Ballerini.

The 90s pop-inspired music video was directed by Kristin Barlowe.

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WinterKhalid

Khalid – Winter (Official Lyric Video)

WinterKhalid

R&B singer Khalid.

I also highly recommend Winter from his album American Teen.

Its big appeal is the strong storytelling in the lyrics: it depicts a couple who fell in love in summer and broke up in November.

Told from the man’s perspective, it’s filled with relentless regret about the past.

The song is packed with various expressions that play on the theme of “November,” which is a highlight to listen for.

On the other hand, the sound is upbeat, so it’s perfect for a drive, too.

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NovemberLil Peep

November

NovemberLil Peep

Lil Peep, the rapper who passed away in 2017.

The song “November” is included on his posthumous album Diamonds.

It’s a track he worked on with music producer iLoveMakonnen, and it carries a somewhat lonely atmosphere.

Specifically, it describes losing a loved one in an already chilly November and feeling as if even one’s heart has gone cold.

Also, pay close attention to the beautiful choral parts.

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Better ManLittle Big Town

Little Big Town – Better Man (Official Music Video)

Better ManLittle Big Town

This is a song by the country vocal group Little Big Town, with a cool, beautiful intro that sets the tone, and a voice that, with just a single phrase, seems to fill the air.

As expected, their choral work is stunning—the gorgeous harmonies give the track a rich, luxurious feel.

It’s a wonderfully pleasant song that carries the warmth of people and the seasonal flavor that define country music.

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November HotelMad Season

November Hotel

November HotelMad Season

The track I’m introducing this time is an instrumental number that exudes an emotional, hyper-charged atmosphere.

Featured on Mad Season’s album “Above,” released in March 1995, this song runs over ten minutes and delivers a heavy, dramatic arrangement that weaves in elements of blues and psychedelic rock.

Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready’s guitar solo truly stands out, and the song was first performed live at the Crocodile Cafe.

It’s a perfect piece to sink into on a deepening November night in autumn, lost in thought.

A classic recommended not only for grunge fans but also for anyone who wants to enjoy instrumental music.

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Don’t Leave Me Lonely ft. YEBBAMark Ronson

Mark Ronson – Don’t Leave Me Lonely (Official Video) ft. Yebba

Don't Leave Me Lonely ft. YEBBAMark Ronson

This is a track released in September 2019 by Mark Ronson, featuring the soulful, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter YEBBA.

She first gained recognition for her backing vocal performance on Chance the Rapper’s 2016 SNL rendition of “Same Drugs,” and she celebrated a hit with her 2017 debut single, “Evergreen.”

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