Recommended Western music for autumn: popular autumn songs and hidden gems [2026]

Something Better To DoOlivia Newton-John

Olivia Newton-John – Something Better To Do

Olivia Newton-John achieved worldwide success as a singer and actress, especially in the 1970s and 1980s.

With her adorable looks, she was also immensely popular in Japan.

Today, I’d like to introduce “Aki Kaze no Ballad” (“Autumn Breeze Ballad”), a classic from the period when Olivia, later famed in the ’80s for a more rock-infused, sexy image, was singing country-tinged pop with a wholesome feel.

Its gentle sound arrangement and melody create a very calm atmosphere that’s perfect for an autumn afternoon.

Interestingly, the word “autumn” never appears in the title or lyrics, and the song isn’t exactly a cheerful one, yet you can imagine how such a Japanese title came about from a certain impression—something that conveys the easygoing mood of the time.

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It’s Too LateCarole King

Carole King – It’s Too Late (Official Audio)

Carole King, a leading female singer-songwriter, displayed her musical talent from a young age and debuted as a singer at 16.

Although she unfortunately didn’t find success at first, she and her first husband, Gerry Goffin, produced many hit songs as a husband-and-wife songwriting team.

While Carole thrived behind the scenes, she later released her own solo work, achieving historic success with her second album, Tapestry.

From that album, I’d like to introduce the song “It’s Too Late.” This song, which depicts the end of a relationship, unfolds over minor chords that convey a wistful emotional arc, yet it somehow leaves a light, pleasant aftertaste—a masterpiece perfect for savoring on a long autumn night.

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Grand Theft Autumn / Where Is Your BoyFall Out Boy

Fall Out Boy: Grand Theft Autumn / Where Is Your Boy [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Fall Out Boy, the most successful band to emerge from the 2000s pop-punk/emo boom and still globally popular into the 2020s—including in Japan, crafted a flexible sound centered on Patrick Stump’s soulful, R&B-influenced vocals and outstanding singing ability, which had a major impact on the bands that followed.

On their debut album, Take This to Your Grave, there’s a track whose title explicitly includes the word “Autumn.” Though a bit rough around the edges, it’s an early classic brimming with youthful energy that showcases their catchiness and remains a live staple.

In fact, aside from the title, it has nothing to do with autumn, and the music video was even shot amid piled-up snow—but why not enjoy it as a quirky, offbeat fall song?

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Autumn LeavesEric Clapton

Eric Clapton -Autumn Leaves

It’s one of the most famous chanson standards and a classic widely covered by jazz musicians.

The piece originated in France, and the lyrics that were added later were, of course, in French.

When it reached America, English lyrics were written and the title became “Autumn Leaves.” In the jazz world, versions by Cannonball Adderley and Bill Evans are especially well-known.

This time, I’d like to introduce Eric Clapton’s cover version—Clapton is a globally popular singer-songwriter and guitarist.

His take on “Les Feuilles Mortes,” modeled after the version sung by Yves Montand in the 1940s, perfectly captures the song’s wistful essence, making it a superb autumn tune.

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Autumn Town LeavesIron&Wine

Autumn Town Leaves

It’s a song whose gentle guitar tones and Sam Beam’s warm vocals sink deep into the heart.

Included on the EP “Weed Garden,” released in August 2018, it’s a work that’s packed with the essence of Iron & Wine.

Set in an autumn town, it poetically depicts the passage of time and the shifts of life, stirring profound emotion in listeners.

Among Iron & Wine’s many tracks often featured in films and TV dramas, this one especially evokes the feeling of fall.

Its calm, mellow mood makes it perfect for a quiet autumn evening, the kind you’d want to share with someone special.