Perfect Playlist: Songs for Cozy Fall Parties

Time Several Hours

Budget $ $$$

Skill Level

WORDS BY Gillian Grefe

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Published on November 1, 2017

Music to Light Up Dark Autumn Nights

We’re deep into fall now, and it’s maybe just a smidge too cold and dark to make leaving the house an appealing prospect. Why not throw an intimate house party instead? Serve dinner or heavy appetizers, make cocktails, and clear out the living room for a dance floor. Light the place up with candles and your guests will never want to brave the cold to change location. We picked some of our favorite songs for setting the perfect pre-holiday entertaining mood– cozy and cool with little bit of funky fun. After all, there’s no reason staying inside has to be boring. Get the party started and listen below!

 

 

Peaches- In the Valley Below

It starts with dark notes but builds to a bright, optimistic finish. Peaches is the perfect song to turn on before the guests arrive, and is great for bopping along to while you set up the bar.

Queens of the Breakers- The Barr Brothers

Known for quiet folk, The Barr Brothers dip a toe into the synth-pop game with this lovely song full of warm, rich chords. Anthemic but still mellow, it’ll set an upbeat tone as the background to lively conversation.

Quiet Corners & Empty Spaces- The Jayhawks

Dusty vocals and twangy guitar recall the bands’ country roots, but the catchy, melodic chorus is pure pop. Plus, if there’s any potential for romance among your friends, “Catch me quick before I walk away” might just inspire those important conversations.

Because the Night- Patti Smith

One of Smith’s best-known singles, this is sure to get your guests singing- no, belting- along. It’s a power ballad that lends itself to dramatic dance moves and excellent air guitar.

Katchi- Nick Waterhouse and Leon Bridges

Let your friends catch their breath with this boppy throwback from Nick Waterhouse that showcases Leon Bridges’ retro crooning. Even so, it won’t let the party die down too much– it might just inspire a little twisting around the dance floor.

Body- LEON

LEON’s dark voice is smooth and sultry over the low groove of this song. The words are easy to catch onto, and soon you’ll be “lost in endless nights” like LEON herself. This is one that’s hard not to put on repeat.

Kiss- Prince

Okay, this song is just a classic. No one can sit still to this, right? Practice your falsetto in advance though– those high notes can be tricky. Prince doesn’t need you to be cool, but you’ll definitely come off that way if you include Kiss in the lineup.

One Time- Marian Hill

A walking beat that catches attention right away, girl power lyrics, and a slow-jam sensibility make this a fun interlude. Marian Hill tops it all of with ethereal vocals that make this song feel timeless.

Feel it Still- Portugal the Man

Give the people what they want! This one’s still on the charts and there’s good reason for it. A funky bass line and toe-tapping chorus mean clapping along is encouraged.

While we won’t be moving away from interior design any time soon, we hope our fave fall jams help complete your fall entertaining schedule. If you need any more help, don’t hesitate to ask