Falling for Brooklyn: Your Ultimate Autumn in NYC Playlist for Park Slope Living

October 2, 2024

As the steamy heat of summer fades and autumn begins to settle in, there’s something even more magical about Brooklyn—and all of NYC—in the fall. The golden light filtering through tree-lined streets, the crunch of leaves underfoot and the crisp air make Park Slope the perfect place to soak in the season.

Whether you’re spending an afternoon at Prospect Park or Brooklyn Botanic Garden, grabbing a coffee at your favorite local spot or simply enjoying the quiet charm of your favorite NYC neighborhood, having the right playlist is essential.

Playlist Overview

This curated playlist captures the essence of an NYC autumn, blending classic jazz, soulful tunes, and indie rock and pop songs, that reflect the rhythm of the season.

From iconic anthems that pay homage to NYC to nostalgic songs that evoke the beauty and melancholy of fall, this playlist will help you savor the season whether you’re in Brooklyn, elsewhere in the city or simply daydreaming of New York.

First 10 Songs

Here are the first 10 songs off our playlist, complete with an accompanying video and brief explanation of how each earned its spot. Head to Spotify to hear the whole thing.

1. Autumn in New York — Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong

After dodging the sun and heading for shelter indoors on those sweltering summer days, it’s so refreshing to be able to linger on an NYC park bench and enjoy the crisp fall air. These lyrics capture that feeling along with the idea of new beginnings.

It’s autumn in New York
That brings the promise of new love
Autumn in New York
Is often mingled with pain
Lovers that bless the dark
On benches in Central Park
It’s autumn in New York
It’s good to live it again

2. September — Earth, Wind & Fire

You’ve probably heard this song on Instagram or TikTok a lot in the past month but it’s such a catchy, upbeat tune that can put a smile on your face whether you’re walking to the subway, hanging out in your Brooklyn living room or even while you’re working.

3. Ramble On — Led Zeppelin

The opening verse might take you back to those days when you’re walking through Prospect Park, surrounded by trees adorned in vibrant shades of orange, red and yellow, and you pause to marvel at the magic of the falling leaves.

Leaves are falling all around
It’s time I was on my way
Thanks to you I’m much obliged
For such a pleasant stay

4. Dancing in the Moonlight — King Harvest

Formed in Olcott Beach, New York, in 1969, King Harvest was known for this hit single which is perfect to play on those chilly fall nights when you’re curled up beside a fireplace with a loved one, dancing or hanging out with friends, or taking a solo stroll through NYC.

5. Gone ‘Til November — Wyclef Jean (feat. NY Philharmonic Orchestra)

Born in Haiti, Wyclef Jean also lived in Brooklyn and New Jersey during his childhood. This throwback track was part of his genre-crossing hit album Wyclef Jean Presents The Carnival in 1997, and it’s still fun to listen to today.

6. Pale September — Fiona Apple

Another artist from New York, with another seasonal, but somber, song whose poetic opening lyrics draw you into a hauntingly beautiful tale.

Pale September, I wore the time like a dress that year
The autumn days swung soft around me, like cotton on my skin
But as the embers of the summer lost their breath and disappeared
My heart went cold and only hollow rhythms resounded from within

7. A-Punk — Vampire Weekend

There’s a chance these New York indie rockers might appear at the start of your alphabetized playlist with their song A-Punk whose lyrics take you from a drive along the Hudson River, into the city, through the subway and to Washington Heights.

8. I Guess the Lord Must Be in New York City — Harry Nilsson

Born in Brooklyn, Harry Nilsson was a singer-songwriter popular in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He wrote this song as a contender for the film Midnight Cowboy, and though it wasn’t included in the movie, it become a hit regardless. The song embodies the enchantment and opportunity of NYC in the same way as another classic, (Theme From) New York, New York.

9. We’re Going to Be Friends — White Stripes

This White Stripes song evokes autumn back-to-school vibes and the innocence of childhood. Listen while dreaming of your past life or while walking by young New Yorkers on their way to school.

10. Central Park West — John Coltrane

A jazz legend who gifted this legendary song to future generations, John Coltrane recorded Central Park West at Atlantic Studios here in NYC back in 1964. It still makes for an idyllic soundtrack when you’re roaming about this amazing city.

Wrapping Up: The Soundtrack of NYC Fall

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, this playlist offers the perfect soundtrack to accompany your autumn strolls through Park Slope and beyond. Each song, with its unique ties to the city, contributes to the diverse experiences that make fall in New York so special.

Whether you’re soaking in the golden hues of Prospect Park or catching the first chill in the evening breeze, these tracks will keep you company and set the tone for the season ahead.

Don’t forget to check out the full playlist below and let the music carry you through the season.