Songs you'll want to listen to in autumn. A selection of recommended hits from 80s Western music!

SeptemberDavid Sylvian

September

David Sylvian, known as the former frontman of the British band Japan, has forged a uniquely artistic musical world since going solo.

Here’s a track of his that pairs beautifully with the quiet of autumn.

This piece delicately portrays an inner landscape in which lovers, seeming happy under clear skies, secretly wish for rain in their hearts.

The minimal soundscape woven by Sylvian’s wistful vocals and piano could be described as autumn itself.

Included on the album Secrets of the Beehive, released in October 1987, this brief work of about one minute features strings arranged by Ryuichi Sakamoto that leave a deep afterglow.

Why not listen to it alone on a long autumn night, when you want to sink into quiet contemplation?

Fall On MeR.E.M.

R.E.M. – Fall On Me

R.E.M., a band that epitomizes alternative rock in the 1980s.

Their intellectual lyrics and beautiful melodies are still beloved by many music fans.

Among their works, a perfect song for autumn is the lead single from the album Lifes Rich Pageant, released in July 1986.

It originally addressed environmental issues, but was elevated into a theme of resisting more universal forms of pressure.

Its crystalline guitar arpeggios and gorgeous choral work convey a firm resolve amid a sense of melancholy.

There’s a certain introspective atmosphere to it that might accompany you as you spend reflective time gazing at the evening sky.

Be sure to check it out.

Englishman in New YorkSting

Sting – Englishman In New York

Sting, also known as the lead vocalist of The Police, has captivated many fans in his solo career with a more refined musical sensibility.

Among his works, the song I want to listen to when I’m in a sentimental autumn mood is a track from his 1987 album …Nothing Like the Sun.

The piece portrays the solitude of an English gentleman living in a foreign land, as well as the dignity of staying true to one’s own way.

The urbane, slightly melancholic saxophone makes you feel as if you’re walking a New York street in the autumn wind.

Even if you don’t quite fit in with those around you, remaining true to yourself seems to mirror the autumn air—sorrowful yet crisp and composed.

The album that includes this track won the 1988 BRIT Award and was also used in a car commercial in the UK.

My Ever Changing MoodsThe Style Council

The Style Council – My Ever Changing Moods

The Style Council, formed by Paul Weller after leading The Jam, was his pursuit of a more jazzy and sophisticated musical style.

This track, released as a single from the acclaimed 1984 album Café Bleu in February of that year, became a hit, reaching No.

29 on the U.S.

charts.

The lyrics portray ever-changing states of mind, set against a refined sound with lightly dancing piano.

It all melts into a wistful autumn atmosphere, slowly seeping into the depths of your heart.

Weller’s languid yet soulful vocals are simply a pleasure.

It’s a track to savor alone on a long autumn night when you want to indulge in a sentimental mood.

Fast CarTracy Chapman

Tracy Chapman – Fast Car (Official Music Video)

Singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman, who sets deeply resonant social messages to music.

Since her debut she has enjoyed great success and continues to be respected by many people.

Among her works, the one that best suits the melancholy air of autumn might be a narrative track from her debut album, “Tracy Chapman.” This folk-rock song poignantly portrays the fleeting hope and intractable reality of a protagonist yearning to escape poverty.

Her performance at the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute in June 1988 brought it worldwide attention.

How about listening to it on a quiet, solitary autumn night?