The calendar says that it’s technically still summer, but fall is in full swing here at the University of Connecticut, which means it’s time to start making fall playlists! Playlist making is an incredibly subjective process, especially during the fall season since there are many different vibes or themes that people curate their playlists for the season around. If you’re having trouble getting started, here are some song recommendations that will really make your fall playlist pop.
Oasis — “Some Might Say”
Legendary Brit-pop band Oasis shocked the music world last week when they announced they will be reuniting for a 19-date tour of the United Kingdom. Whether Liam and Noel Gallagher stay on good terms long enough to complete the trek remains to be seen, but what can be guaranteed is that their music still holds up great. Though not as famous as tracks like “Wonderwall” and “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” the 1995 hit “Some Might Say” captures the band at their best, thanks to warm, sharp layers of guitar and a vintage vocal performance from Liam Gallagher. This is a perfect song for walking to class in the morning or otherwise starting your day.
Taylor Swift — “Mine”
What will the Swifties have to say about this one? Originally released in 2010 as the lead single from “Speak Now,” which happens to be my favorite Taylor Swift album, “Mine” showcases Swift at her country-pop best. The arrangement is incredibly pleasing on the ears with its Nashville-influenced guitars and drums. Swift sings of the trials and tribulations of college love, highlighting the incredible highs and crushing lows that come with college relationships. It’s one of her best vocal performances, both her lead and harmonies. Oh, and of course, we’re using Taylor’s Version.
Steve Lacy — “Bad Habit”
This one is a pure nostalgia pick, albeit a very recent memory. The album “Gemini Rights” was released one month before my freshman year at UConn started in 2022, so those songs were fresh in my mind as I began my college journey. Lead single “Bad Habit,” and the album as a whole, particularly reminds me of my first week of college, as some of my neighbors from down the hall would have this album playing constantly. Though others will probably pick deeper cuts from the album, “Bad Habit” is perfect for an evening walk or hanging out with friends.
Incubus — “Dig”
There were so many Incubus songs that I could have picked for this list. Incubus is one of the most successful alternative rock groups of the 1990s and 2000s that made a name for themselves with melodic alt-rock hits like “Drive” and “Wish You Here Here.” Released in 2006, “Dig” features a soaring lead vocal from Brandon Boyd with inspiring lyrics about being there for each other despite our own individual weaknesses. This, combined with a smooth rhythm section and a bright lead guitar part, makes this song a go-to for uplifting you when everything seems to be coming down.
Supertramp — “Sister Moonshine”
Most readers are probably thinking the same thing right now: who is Supertramp? The short answer is that they’re one of the most underrated rock bands of the 1970s. The band is most known for hits like “Give A Little Bit” and “The Logical Song,” as well as their keyboard-dominated art-rock sound. Among their best tunes is “Sister Moonshine” from their underrated 1975 album “Crisis? What Crisis?” This Roger Hodgson-penned song features a folk-rock sound with bright acoustic guitars, a stomping drum beat and even flute fills. It’s a great song for those rare, warm October days, as many folk-rock songs are. Bonus points if you listen to this with its counterpart song that opens the album “Easy Does It.”
Sophie Ellis-Bextor — “Murder on the Dancefloor”
“Murder on the Dancefloor” roared back into the public lexicon this past year thanks to its inclusion in the 2023 film “Saltburn,” and for good reason. The song features an incredibly catchy chorus and a beat that can make even the most stoic person dance. This is my go-to song for whenever I’m coming home from a night out, as there’s something soothing about walking back to my dorm from across campus listening to that beautiful groove. It’s also a great song to sing and dance the night away with friends to, making it a must-add for any college playlist regardless of the season.