[2026 Edition] A Roundup of Popular and Classic Western Songs to Listen to in September

Try to RememberHarry Belafonte

Try To Remember

This song is a signature number from The Fantasticks, the Off-Broadway musical that set a historic record for the longest run, depicting a young couple’s love story and the hardships and poignancy of growing up.

There are many covers, but the original was sung in the show by Jerry Orbach.

This version is a cover by Harry Belafonte—an American singer beloved nationwide, known for hits like Banana Boat and for proposing We Are the World.

September SongJP Cooper

JP Cooper – September Song

A single released in 2016 by JP Cooper, a British singer.

It’s a feel-good, soulful track that evokes teenage romance and became a hit in the UK, Ireland, Sweden, and more.

Now that the heat has eased and the coolness of autumn is in the air, it might be the perfect listen.

Give it a try!

You Can’t Control ItJack Johnson

Jack Johnson – You Can’t Control It (Official Audio)

A single released in September 2017.

Since it came out in autumn, the sound somehow feels like a pleasant breeze is blowing.

The music video shows short sleeves on a sandy beach, but I can’t help recommending it for the end of summer and the beginning of autumn.

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Yoshizaki Keiko

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September GrassJames Taylor

James Taylor – September Grass

James Taylor, a quintessential American singer-songwriter, has left behind a wealth of beloved classics and hit songs that continue to be cherished by many.

While he helped lead the singer-songwriter boom of the 1970s, he’s also known as a master of the acoustic guitar.

Here in Japan, too, countless listeners have admired his warm vocals and the expressive tones of his acoustic playing.

In that spirit, I’d like to introduce “September Grass,” a perfect song to savor in September that beautifully showcases Taylor’s voice and acoustic guitar.

The track opens his 15th album, October Road, released in 2002, and carries a nostalgic, bittersweet feel—evoking the sense of lying in a grassy field in September, after summer has ended, recalling the faint memories of a distant romance.

It feels like more than just a seasonal transition; it suggests a metaphor for life, moving from summer to autumn, and then sensing the approach of winter.

As the lyrics suggest, if you enjoy a drink, try listening to this song with a glass of apple wine in hand!

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KOH-1

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Mr.WhiteKhruangbin

Khruangbin performing “Mr. White” Live on KCRW

Khruangbin are a Texas-based trio.

Influenced by Thai funk, they captivate with a deep funk sound reminiscent of The Meters.

Even as instrumentals, their music never feels lacking.

Their melting tones set the mood for those wistful nights at summer’s end.