[2026] Classics and Recommended Popular Western Songs to Listen to in October
In recent years, the intense heat of summer has lingered on even after autumn arrives, and it’s really not until October that it finally starts to feel like fall.
It’s a comfortable time of year that makes you want to go out for a walk or a drive, and it’s also perfect for quiet contemplation at home—so I’ve put together a list of Western music classics that make great background music.
From songs that take October itself as their theme to mellow tracks that suit autumn’s slightly melancholic mood, I’ve selected a wide range—from recent hits to timeless classics.
You might even make a new discovery, like realizing that a song’s lyrics actually mention October!
Be sure to check them out.
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[2026] Classic Western songs to listen to in October: recommended popular tracks (91–100)
HardwiredMetallica
A track included on Metallica’s 2016 album Hardwired…
to Self-Destruct by the American heavy metal band.
It’s a provocative song characterized by distorted riffs that evoke the band’s early thrash metal sound.
ThrillerMichael Jackson
It’s probably the most listened-to Halloween song in the world.
One of the signature tracks by the King of Pop, Michael Jackson: Thriller.
It’s the title track from the album released in 1982, and it came out as a single the following year, in 1983.
The feature-length, movie-like music video that caused such a sensation is often shown on TV around Halloween.
Its playful, thrilling vibe pairs perfectly with the visuals and suits the holiday so well.
You can also feel the song’s passionate love-song side—something that really amps up the mood, so keep an ear out for that.
It’s a classic that’s perfect as BGM for costume parties, and all the more recommended in this modern era where dancing has become standard.
Harvest MoonNeil Young
Singer-songwriter Neil Young has worked across a wide range of genres, from hard rock to country rock, and is famous as a legendary rock artist.
His “Harvest Moon” is one of his signature songs.
While it didn’t become a massive hit, it remains a beloved piece.
The lyrics carry strong religious overtones, and the melody is crafted to match that atmosphere with a romantic touch.
I think you’ll enjoy it even more listening under the chilly October sky.
Wherever I GoOneRepublic
A song by OneRepublic, released as a digital download in 2016.
Carrying a message about unnatural and unhealthy obsessions, it features a grand piano line and a funk rhythm.
At 2 minutes and 49 seconds, it is the shortest track they have ever released.
Forest of OctoberOpeth
When you think of “songs you want to listen to in October,” you might tend to imagine something rather melancholic.
That’s why I’d love for you to listen to “Forest of October.” It’s a track by the Swedish metal band Opeth, featuring hard, quintessentially metal melodies and the allure of death growls.
The song portrays a person feeling lonely in an October forest and depicts their eventual exhaustion.
It’s open to various interpretations, so I recommend listening while reflecting on its meaning.
