The beginning of the semester means the transition from summer to fall is upon us, which calls for a welcome-back playlist of tracks to get your mind ready for school.
Vienna – Billy Joel
What better way to start this playlist than with the Piano Man himself? “Vienna” is one of those songs that gets better as time goes on. I am not surprised this song has risen to the second most streamed song of Joel’s career, as the message is something everyone can relate to. Vienna is a metaphor for growing older and finding fulfillment in life. It may seem like other people are living an adventure, but your life is one too. It is ok to slow down in a world that is going so fast. It may be easy to envy another person’s life or situation, but everyone will find their path. It may take time, but Vienna waits for everyone. This shares the theme of being welcomed back and is accompanied by warm fall feelings.
Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) – Green Day
This is a song I have always associated with fall and back-to-school feelings. It reminds me of the summer fun and excitement, coming to an end and being met by reality, going back to school. Billie Armstrong wrote this song after a breakup and was his way of putting on a brave face when, in reality, he was hurting. Instead of naming the song “Time of Your Life,” which he thought seemed too level-headed of him, he went with “Good Riddance.” It fits this playlist so well as those feelings of sadness from Armstrong can be felt across the record, which makes it the perfect track to say goodbye to summer break.
we fell in love in october – girl in red
From the track cover to the title, this song has fall vibes written all over it. Girl in red is an alternative pop/indie artist from Norway. She writes, sings and produces all her music, which isn’t something all artists can say. This is an older one from her discography, and it continues to be a standout record as the feelings it gives off are hard to replicate. It is a fun record that sounds even better during cold fall days.
Small Worlds – Mac Miller
With John Mayer on guitar and Miller’s calm vocals, this track is the perfect addition to this playlist. The autumn feelings are radiant throughout this track due to the guitar and piano chords transitioning together so well, which feels like going from summer to fall. One thing I love about Miller’s songs is the ability to have an overarching theme the listener can pick up on while still having amazing productions behind it. I always think about this song at the beginning of the semester or during stressful times as the message of this track is no matter what you’re struggling with or hoping for, keep holding on and try to find joy no matter the situation.
November – Tyler, the Creator
The production behind “November” perfectly replicates the feelings of autumn and is intentional. As the title may suggest, Tyler loves the month of November and the associated feelings that come with it. Throughout this song, Tyler uses November as a metaphor for nostalgia and remembering the best times throughout his life. The track features a segment of friends answering the question; what is your “November?” Not many hip-hop artists can express as much emotion or feeling throughout their records as Tyler, and for that reason, he deserves a spot on this heartfelt playlist.
A Cold Sunday – Lil Yachty
“A Cold Sunday” is the perfect addition to this playlist as the jazz-inspired production behind this song gives off the cozy and calm vibes of a cold Sunday. It offers smooth, cozy vibes accompanied by Yachty’s vocals. This is one of the many solo tracks that Yachty has released since his alternative/indie album “Let’s Start Here,” and his momentum of great tracks being released doesn’t seem to be slowing down. This is the perfect song to listen to on a cold morning or while walking to class.
For the First Time – Mac DeMarco
This song is for those leaving behind friends, family or even significant others to head back to school. “For the First Time” is about the hardships of being away from those you love even if the pain is only temporary. This is something all of us can relate to in one way or another as heading to college often takes away from the relationships we have. The pain may be temporary, but this track is sure to help get you through it.
mirrorball – Taylor Swift
“Mirrorball” is one of those songs that has the embodiment of autumn throughout the whole track. This is from Taylor’s album “folklore,” which is full of alternative pop and indie folk music which fits the fall season the best. I enjoyed “Lover” and “folklore” more than her other albums due to the calm and smooth vibes they give off. The calm energy from these tracks makes them perfect to listen to at any time no matter how you may be feeling.
Find the playlist here!
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/torch-tunes-welcome-back-mix/pl.u-r2yBDEYuqB1bkD
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ahjEmbj2ajTQw6qwqyenN?si=2bffb0932387415a
SE BG
C.E. C.F. / AM