Songs of Fall 2026
Graphic by Maya Kodali
Nothing like a change in weather to jump-start a new era in life. I start my fall mood-boarding at the end of July, long before the birds begin their migration and the bears start to hibernate. Fall promises excitement with Halloween around the corner, growing piles of leaves lining the streets, and decadent sweets to punctuate a tiresome day. If you haven’t started your mood board yet, no fear! Here are some songs to play in the background as your autumn endeavors (and mid-semester academics) kick into gear.
Fleetwood Mac, “Landslide”
If this new school year already has you questioning yourself and your future, you’ll find comfort in knowing that Stevie Nicks felt the same way decades ago. You’ll also find solace in the fact that this track is one of the band’s most enduring and beloved by fans. People everywhere share the same feelings.
Fleetwood Mac, “As Long As You Follow”
Another Fleetwood Mac classic. This time, a reminder that you are not meant to wallow in your feelings alone. So text your friends for late-night Tasty Burger—or a cry session; either works.
Wallows, “Drunk on Halloween”
For some, Halloween is an excuse to try alcoholic combinations unbeknownst to hepatologists. For others, it is a night to reminisce and contemplate the true horrors of everyday life. At the “Harvard Independent,” we like to accommodate both. This song gives you an emotional outlet for all of those pent-up feelings, right around fall’s most anticipated night.
Lana Del Rey, “How To Disappear”
Another ode to mixed emotions and conflicting feelings. Find solace in this contemplative track. And better yet, this is the perfect sound for your late teens/early twenties.
Lana Del Rey, “Let The Light In”
On a more hopeful note, maybe your situationship is on the cusp of becoming official. This song sounds like the melodic cacophony of a convoluted relationship. The falling leaves are almost confetti.
Philip Glass, “Etude No. 2”
Like the hypnotic trance of walking through New England’s maple and marigold canopies, this piece soothes you with a gentle lullaby of pure feeling. Snuggle up with a steaming mug of hot chocolate and let the piano’s swells and lulls wash over you.
The Beatles, “In My Life”
If you’re a freshman growing into life at Harvard or a senior thinking about life after graduation, this song is for you. Make memories as you reminisce. Ensure you always have a well of love to draw from. Seasons change and so do people.
The Beatles, “Don’t Let Me Down”
Don’t let summer’s departure sour you on the unique beauty of this time of year. Autumn brings its own treasures, like the first home game when everyone pretends to have school spirit. Definitely don’t let the team down.
The Strokes, “Call It Fate, Call It Karma”
Some days deserve slow, intentional, yet natural attention. This song is for the in-between classes, 15-minute, life-pondering moments that make you stop and wonder.
Men I Trust, “Numb”
Maybe you ended your relationship too early for that pumpkin-patch photo dump. No worries! Listen to this track when the heaviness of your regret needs an extra hand (or bridge).
Mazzy Star, “Fade Into You”
Deep longing and slow melodies. If love isn’t treating you right, try fading into the next best thing: HUDS banana pudding. Yum.
The Smiths, “Back to the Old House”
As The Smiths say, “Here began all my dreams.” This is your sign to always have audacity: you can go to club meetings just for the food.
The Smiths, “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out”
Another heartfelt song. Be like Summer. Love The Smiths.
Mitski, “My Love Mine All Mine”
Like the moon, I hope my successors in Straus A-42 can feel my lingering presence, guiding them to my name carved into the wall.
Hamid El Shaeri, “Ouda”
You didn’t take Expos for no reason. Let this song inspire a more poetic late-night hookup post next time. Signed, an avid Sidechat reader.
Beach House, “Wildflower”
Organic and beautiful. It’s the perfect way to describe the light reflecting off the Charles as the sun sets this time of year, or this song.
Pearl Jam, “Soldier of Love”
Make love, not war. Wear two layers, not one. Attend all office hours, not none.
Crowded House, “Don’t Dream It’s Over”
This song is about resilience and companionship. Take comfort in knowing that it is never really over (at least until the grade cap goes into effect).
Simon and Garfunkel, “America”
Simon and Garfunkel remind us that hope and endurance go hand in hand. Like bad HUDS chicken, this too shall pass.
Vashti Bunyan, “I’d Like to Walk Around In Your Mind”
To know yourself, other people, and the world deeply and earnestly: perhaps that is the true meaning of a Harvard education. Tell someone you love them today, that you care about their presence.
Aretha Franklin, “Call Me”
Tender hoping in the earliest stages of what is just beginning. “Call Me” captures the breathless nature of young love and the dear parting of summer.
Sufjan Stevens, “Futile Devices”
He’s like a friend who I worry about. Check up on your friends.
Yoko Ono, “I Have A Woman Inside My Soul”
It’s easy to feel detached from the world as you sink into academic demands or the dark thoughts that come with lonesome nights. Ono sings about the desire to get back to our true selves and the importance of that above all else.
Frank and Nancy Sinatra, “Something Stupid”
Everyone! Spontaneously declare your infatuation with me, now!
The Beach Boys, “God Only Knows”
Love can take many forms, like the absolute clarity of finding your place in life. If you haven’t found it yet, this song might reassure you that it will come.
Cass Elliot, “Didn’t Want To Have to Do It”
Sometimes, the things we cherish most have to end. Relationships must also run their course.
Daughters of Eve, “Hey Lover”
Here’s to the people who remind us to stay true to ourselves and not allow others to change us. True love and understanding are the trick for both hard classes and navigating other people.
Oasis, “Wonderwall”
Noel Gallagher may not have intended it this way, but maybe you’re the one who’ll save yourself. Make that 7 a.m. gym session you’ve been delaying since spring semester.
Sade, “Kiss of Life”
Red, orange, amethyst, azure. These are the shades of the sky and the colors of love—or new Berryline flavors. Whichever works best for you.
Bon Iver and St. Vincent, “Roslyn”
If you aren’t watching “Twilight” this autumn, what are you doing? Devotion is a beautiful thing to behold, as this song conveys through confessional lyrics and lingering vocals.
More than just words, music gives these stanzas life—bringing newfound meaning to human experiences, challenges, and reflections across time. Whether you’re walking home from Lamont on a moonlit night or sharing a sweet treat between classes with friends, music reminds you of the range of emotions that come with finding yourself in your youth.
Hafeezat Ghaffar ’29 (hghaffar@college.harvard.edu) made this list into a Spotify Playlist.
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