“I made it to September”: The perfect fall playlist to listen to while strutting to class

By Riley Dauber

Lifestyle Editor

Finding the perfect soundtrack this fall is crucial, especially if you are the type of person to listen to music while walking to class. However, it can be difficult to keep track of the recent releases, or even curate the right playlist for the season.

The following playlist is made up of a variety of songs, including new releases and some fan-favorite classics, that will make any listener feel like they are in their own coming-of-age film. They also manage to match the autumnal weather that will soon take over campus.

“all-american bitch” by Olivia Rodrigo

The opening track off of Rodrigo’s sophomore album “GUTS” manages to switch from moments of quiet reflection to unabashed rage.

This back-and-forth allows Rodrigo to criticize the ways people have treated her, as well as her public persona. When the beat finally drops, and she starts screaming, listeners are sure to feel satisfied.

The outro is also memorable. After falling into a bout of screams, Rodrigo almost calms herself down and sings, “I’m grateful all the time / I’m sexy and I’m kind / I’m pretty when I cry.” Through the lyrics, she is trying to return to the “good girl” image the public has placed on her, but as the album continues, Rodrigo realizes she cannot keep hiding.

The rage-fueled beat and relatable lyrics provide the perfect tune to walk – or stomp – to class.

“Kids in America” by Kim Wilde

This 1981 classic has been covered by a variety of artists and featured in movies like “Clueless” and “Do Revenge,” but nothing beats Wilde’s original. Because of its popularity, it is no wonder that any listener will feel like they are in a movie while listening to this song.

The synth-filled production and sound effects create the ideal atmosphere for walking to class. “Kids in America” is also catchy and upbeat, inspiring any listener to keep going.

“Manic Monday” by The Bangles

This song, originally written by Prince, is a bit too relatable for college students trying to get up and out the door at the start of the week.

The singer, seemingly woken up by their alarm on a Monday morning, laments having to wake up and go to work. They would rather sleep in and keep dreaming of their lover, but instead, they have to head to work.

The lyrics can easily be applied to any college student’s situation, whether they stayed up too late studying or would rather sleep a bit longer. This song manages to wake one up and also provides a relatable feeling to any listener.

“There She Goes” by The La’s

This song, often featured in the television show “Gilmore Girls,” offers the perfect beat and instrumental breaks for a long walk to class.

The lyrics, while repetitive at times, also fit the feeling of trekking across campus. Listeners are guaranteed to feel like they are in a movie or music video while streaming this song.

“Where You Lead” by Carole King

Speaking of “Gilmore Girls,” if you want to feel like you are in an episode of the comedy-drama, you cannot go wrong with some Carole King, especially her album “Tapestry.”

While any song off the album will do, “Where You Lead” also happens to be the show’s theme song.

With King’s comforting vocals and her promise of always being there for the people she loves, this song captures the autumnal vibes while also being upbeat and charming.

“Treacherous” by Taylor Swift

This song from Swift’s 2021 re-recorded album “Red” is full of clever lyrics and swelling production.

During the course of the song, Swift discusses the dangers of engaging in a certain romantic relationship. Even though she knows it might be wrong, she cannot help but fall for the person.

The bridge, like most of Swift’s discography, is arguably the highlight of the song. The music builds, and Swift sings her heart out: “Your name has echoed through my mind / and I just think you should, think you should know.”

Similar to “Tapestry,” you cannot go wrong with any song on Swift’s “Red” when it comes to finding the perfect fall beat. However, “Treacherous” is an underrated favorite that deserves more attention.

“Rocket Man” by Elton John

John’s soulful vocals and incredible piano skills shine in this 1972 ballad.

The song touches on themes of identity and feeling lost, with John comparing himself to a man floating out in space. These lyrics can also connect to John’s public persona, and how he feels like he cannot come back down to earth after reaching such high levels of fame.

“There It Goes” by Maisie Peters

Written and performed by British singer Peters, this song shows the importance of growth and healing following a hard time in someone’s life.

One of the opening lyrics – “I’m doing better, I made it to September” – started trending on TikTok as creators celebrated the new month and everything they have overcome.

Throughout the song, Peters mentions her current hobbies and what she has been doing to get over a tough breakup. By the time the song concludes, she learns that she made the right decision in letting her ex-partner go and taking the time to focus on herself.

Although Peters is most likely discussing a relationship, the song can apply to any listener’s personal experience. “There It Goes” is also an apt closer for the playlist, as it highlights reflection and moving on.

The playlist is available to stream on Spotify.

Photo Caption: Maisie Peter’s song “There It Goes,” from her album “The Good Witch,” focuses on healing after a bad breakup.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

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