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] Classic Western songs to listen to in November: Recommended popular tracks (101–110)

Holy WarAlicia Keys

Alicia Keys – Holy War (Official Audio)

Holy WarAlicia Keys

A song that celebrates free love.

It was created by Alicia Keys together with Billy Walsh and Alejandro Sanz.

To commemorate the anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.

’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech at the March on Washington, it was performed at the MTV Video Music Awards on August 28, 2016.

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Sweet but PsychoAva Max

Ava Max – Sweet but Psycho [Official Music Video]

Sweet but PsychoAva Max

A glamorous EDM number by American singer Ava Max, with crisp handclap highs that feel incredibly satisfying.

The strikingly crazy title “Sweet but Psycho” leaves a strong impression.

The drama-style music video is intense and tells the story of the song’s identity.

Yet the track itself is extremely pleasant—so much so that, in a way, that contrast feels almost ‘psycho’ in itself.

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The WeekendBrantley Gilbert

Brantley Gilbert – The Weekend

The WeekendBrantley Gilbert

A song that sings about having a good time on the weekend.

It was released as a digital download in 2016.

The music video, directed by Shane Drake, features Brantley Gilbert’s band members as well as his wife, Amber.

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Heartbreak AnniversaryGiveon

GIVĒON – Heartbreak Anniversary (Official Music Video)

Heartbreak AnniversaryGiveon

Giveon, an R&B singer known for his emotional vocals, has earned widespread popularity.

His take on R&B differs from the usual, incorporating many elements of soul music.

It’s not just a simple soul-tinged R&B either—the gently autotuned vocals and distinctive production leave a strong impression.

One of his standout tracks is Heartbreak Anniversary.

Its softly shaded, atmospheric R&B vibe fits perfectly with the mood of November.

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November Has ComeGorillaz

Gorillaz – November Has Come – Demon Days

November Has ComeGorillaz

Damon Albarn, who rose to fame as the frontman of Blur, one of the UK’s most iconic bands.

His other project, Gorillaz, could now be said to have surpassed Blur in popularity.

The group’s uniquely languid vibe is perfect for the season when the weather starts to turn a bit chilly.

Among their tracks, the one I especially want to highlight is November Has Come, from the classic album Demon Days.

Over a heavy beat, the masked rapper MF DOOM delivers an explosive verse.

As for why November: interpretations of the lyrics vary, but within this song, November seems to signify a “new era of hip-hop.” November may be close to the end of the year, but for hip-hop, it’s surely only just beginning.

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[2025] Classic Western songs to listen to in November, recommended popular tracks (111–120)

Work SongHozier

Hozier – Work Song (Official Video)

Work SongHozier

The owner of the beautiful voice behind that sweet look is Hozier, a singer-songwriter from Ireland.

Despite its dark, heavy tone, the song stirs up a deep sense of courage.

Titled “WORK SONG,” its lyrics truly evoke the life and spirit of a working man.

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UnconditionallyKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Unconditionally (Official)

UnconditionallyKaty Perry

It’s a very positive, uplifting song.

She has other tracks that give you energy, too.

I think this one really showcases her character.

It was released before she came to Japan, and it says, “Even if your life is a mess right now, I don’t care.

I will love you unconditionally.” It’s a perfect pick when you want to boost your mood as winter approaches.

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