Jukebox: Autumnal Jazz and Jubilation

By Audrey Pegouske

We are all familiar with the hits “September” by Earth, Wind, Fire and “The Great Pumpkin Waltz” from Charlie Brown following us around every winding bend lined with autumn foliage. However, some songs feel more like fall than even those repeated on the radio and can help ease your stresses during the lengthening chilly nights and walks amongst the crunchy leaves. Embrace the cozy static that swings by in the arms of sweater weather with these noteworthy releases I have on repeat heading into November: 

1. There She Goes – the La’s 

First released in 1988 and written by Lee Mavers the band’s frontman, this song gives a glimpse into the Britpop craze that would surge in the early 1990s. Most notably, this song has graced the soundtrack of the cult classic 2000s television series “Gilmore Girls,” perfectly befitting of the carefree nature of the show’s cast. This simple but catchy tune is sure to stick with you far after the first listen. 

2. We Fell in Love in October – girl in red 

Marie Ulven Ringheim is a Norwegian singer-songwriter who self-produced this indie pop project in 2018 to speak on her queer identity, while giving listeners a dreamy hum of breezy sunshine to swirl through their hair. As her stage name indicates, listening to this one when you’re wearing red is a must-try for maximum enjoyment. 

3. ‘Tis Autumn – Nat King Cole 

Originally recorded in 1933, Cole started as a jazz pianist in the late 30s, transitioning from a trio to a solo artist in the early 50s. He stands as an icon of civil rights in the music industry, as he faced intense racial scrutiny even as a mainstream success. This song specifically seemingly stops time with his voice of warm comfort. A soulful calling to listen to your surroundings, feel the world breath underneath you, and ponder life in the stillness of each smooth stanza. 

4. This I Swear – The Skyliners 

This 60s doo-wop group from Pittsburgh were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002 after helping define the American music scene of the era. The sweeping strings mimic rushing waves that fill the soul with sun. Nostalgic chords of classic 50s-60s swing capture that vintage sound to help keep you hopeful for the coming winter months. 

5. Kiss Me – Sixpence None the Richer 

An Alternative rock band that formed in Texas, 1992, this song also rose to fame following its release in 1998. It is notably referenced in romantic comedies, such as 99’s “She’s All That,” and from 03’s “How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days”. A brilliant cohabitation of guitars and spunk, this song never ceases to emulate the blissful awe of autumn foliage, and is perfect for any road trip with friends or family. 

6. Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go – Wham! 

In the way that clementines come into season during the fall months, this song is an unexpected, vibrant citrus added to the list. A renowned Britpop phenomenon from the 80s, their 1984 release turned heads and struck hearts all the way to top the Billboard 100 in the US and UK. Whether you need a pick me up between morning classes or a song for the shower, this tune can be used anywhere to lift your spirits and put a pep in your step as the cold comes out to bite.  

7. I’ll Be Seeing You – Billie Holiday 

This one is for the rain-lovers, looking for soulful jazz to get them through a midafternoon drizzling study session. Discovered at a nightclub in Harlem during the 30s, Holiday rose to fame as a jazz singer with innate aptitude for improvisation and vocal phrasing. The record scratches and hazy buzz of the old microphones is the perfect companion for meandering through the puddles under the shield of an umbrella on the dreariest of days. Dancing in the rain works well enough too. 

8. Slow Dance – Clairo 

With a music style subtly mixing indie, lofi, and soft rock notes, her repertoire covers a range of moods befitting any cold day or state of mind. The 4th song on her 2024 album “Charm,” (The most recent release on this list) follows the fall narrative of patience and gliding along in acceptance and thought. Although the words are more wistful, the simplicity of her backing tracks matched with her vocal style make for a ruminating experience. 

9. Little Sad Eyes – The Castells 

This male vocal quartet from California released a limited amount of music during their career, but in my opinion, they are some of the best songs ever created during the early 1960s. This song evokes feelings of longing for anything, everywhere, all at once. With use of jazzy swing and delicate percussion, this song in particular is perfect for any night walk alone, hand-in-hand with your thoughts and standing underneath the stars. When you’re blue, they will surely make you feel a little less lonely with soft acapella and a whole lot of heart. 

10. Caught in a Blue – Stephen Sanchez 

With vocals and the aesthetic to match vintage icons like Elvis and Frank Sinatra, Sanchez uses 50s and 60s stylistic references to define his modern releases inspired by the sounds of the time. Most notably his 2023 album “Angel Face” holds enough nostalgia to move you through any day of fall activities, and any shift in the weather. For hopeless romantics and academic hopefuls, this artist who became famous for his release “Until I Found You” in 2022 has everything one needs to seize the day and face every aspect of themselves to see what love really means to us as humans. This song is definitely not one to sleep on. 

11. Cherry Wine – grentperez 

A smaller Filipino-Australian artist known for his RnB outlook, this playful, jazzy single from 2021 will bring a smile to anyone’s face. In the chorus he notes “we can take our time,” a message that everyone needs to hear amidst the piles of lecture notes, tests, and study materials. If you listen to this and are not moved to start dancing, come talk to me. I’d love to have you listen to it once more. 

12. There Is a Light That Never Goes Out – The Smiths 

Many people know this release from the hit comedy drama 500 Days of Summer from 2009 with the iconic line “I said I love the Smiths!” What most people don’t know however, is that The Smiths never miss with their music; every release was a smashing hit with grungy mystique. Formed in Manchester in 1982, the group rejected the predominant synth-pop sounds of the time to fuse 1960s rock and post-punk. Their elixir of instruments and unique vocals shine through in this song released in 1992 that reminds us that we all have passion that will never go out, even during the darkest days that find us alone in the cold.