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

The Western music scene of the 1980s, boosted by the birth of MTV and the evolution of synth sounds, was a period that produced countless massive hits still loved today.

Here, we’ve put together a selection of songs that are especially perfect for listening in autumn.

Of course, we’ve included tracks that directly take autumn as their theme, but we’ve also selected smooth adult contemporary tunes and sentimental ballads that suit the season’s atmosphere.

We’ve even highlighted some hidden gems, so be sure to find the autumn songs from the ’80s that best match your taste.

Songs you’ll want to listen to in autumn: Recommended picks from 80s Western hit tracks (41–50)

Autumn SerenadeJohn Coltrane / Johnny Hartman

Autumn Serenade, delivered by the duo of John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman, is an autumn jazz number brimming with romance.

Johnny Hartman’s sensual baritone riding the light, swinging jazz rhythm, paired with John Coltrane’s moody saxophone, creates an ensemble that is absolutely mesmerizing.

It’s a mature, atmospheric fall song—definitely one to add to your playlist.

Trouble AgainKarla Bonoff

Karla Bonoff – Trouble Again
Trouble AgainKarla Bonoff

A hit song released in 1980 by California-born singer-songwriter Karla Bonoff.

It won the Gold Prize at the 9th Tokyo Music Festival held the same year.

While the track has a folk-rock sound, perhaps influenced by her California roots, it carries an overall country-like atmosphere, giving it a distinctly expansive, American feel.

It’s a classic that could be considered a prototype of country rock delivered by a female vocalist—something that also foreshadows artists like Shina Twin.

Right and a Wrong WayKeith Sweat

Keith Sweat, a quintessential R&B singer of the 1980s, explores the complexities of love and relationships in his classic song.

Featured on the album “Make It Last Forever,” the track was released in 1987 and became a pioneer of the New Jack Swing sound.

With soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, it questions the true meaning of love and teaches the importance of respecting your partner.

It’s a perfect song to listen to on a long autumn night with someone special.

Ideal for those struggling with romance or looking to strengthen their bond with a partner.

All Night LongLionel Richie

Lionel Richie – All Night Long (All Night)
All Night LongLionel Richie

In Japan and across the Northern Hemisphere, autumn means long nights.

A music video that became a hot topic felt like a night out on the town—making the most of those long hours and having fun straight through till morning.

As a track, it’s wonderfully airy, with a light, lively groove, breadth and depth, and that quintessential groove laid over a relatively regular rhythm section, all steeped in an American vibe.

A poppy tune that’s also perfect for a drive.

Everyday Is Like SundayMorrissey

Everyday Is Like Sunday (2010 Remaster)
Everyday Is Like SundayMorrissey

A hit solo release by Morrissey, former singer of the British band THE SMITHS—virtually the standard-bearers of the genre known as “positive punk.” The chorus, with its line “Every day is like Sunday,” is especially striking.

The songwriting and sound design are memorable for how they let his “never-straining yet deep voice” breathe within a richly reverbed vocal treatment reminiscent of his time with THE SMITHS, creating a distinctive atmosphere.

In a sense, you could even call it a defining sound of the 1980s.

November Spawned a MonsterMorrissey

A masterpiece supported by many for its heavy, profound lyrics, “November Spawned a Monster.” This track was released by the British singer-songwriter Morrissey.

At first glance, it comes across like a Halloween song.

However, the lyrics actually carry a message that throws a stone into the pond of public opinion.

What was Morrissey thinking when he wrote it? If you’re curious, be sure to look into it.

Autumn SongMose Allison

Mose Allison, an American jazz-blues pianist and songwriter.

This performance, too, has a wonderfully layered tone and composition that slowly conveys the deepening autumn air, fallen leaves, and the feel of soil underfoot.

He also performed in Japan, delivering a masterful set that impressed even seasoned aficionados—handsome and utterly compelling.