Now that summer is a distant memory and the days are getting shorter, the pop hits are replaced by the slower, cozier songs of autumn. Fall marks the beginning of cuffing season, with people looking for a special someone to keep them warm during the cooler months. Here are some songs to get in the spirit of cuffing season, ideal for a little romance, apple picking or pumpkin carving.
“Kiss Me” by Sixpence None the Richer
“Kiss Me” is a comforting song that tells the story of a girl asking her lover to kiss her, embodying the sweet longing of fall. Sung by lead singer Leigh Nash, this song layers acoustic guitar, accordion and Hammond organ to create a sense of nostalgia and melancholy.
The lyrics invoke a scene of a brisk autumn evening spent with a lover with lines like “And make the fireflies dance, silver moon's sparkling” and “Kiss me beneath the milky twilight.” The gentle warmth throughout the song is great for a chilly evening walk or an apple orchard date. With its tender instrumentals and affectionate tone, “Kiss Me” evokes the feeling of being in love — making it a good addition to autumn playlists.
“Apple Cider” by beabadoobee
Named after the iconic fall drink, “Apple Cider” is a no-brainer for the fall. “Apple Cider” perfectly captures the nervous excitement of having a friend that we might like to be something more with, but are afraid to tell them. Singer beabadoobee starts the song saying, “We both like apple cider,” showing the initial commonalities that she and the person she is interested in have. She goes on to sing, “And even if we're just friends / We could be more than that,” and portrays the ups and downs of having a crush, saying, “You said you liked the jumper I wore / So I always wore it.”
She ends the song saying “Let's give this thing a try,” and asks if it is alright “To drink some apple cider” together, but this time as romantic partners instead of friends. The song captures the vulnerability of confessing your feelings, backed up with cozy acoustics that create the warmth of sharing some warm apple cider with a special someone.
“affection” by BETWEEN FRIENDS
BETWEEN FRIENDS is a brother and sister duo that has graced Charlottesville with their presence in the past — opening for the University Programs Council’s 2023 Wahoo Welcome Concert. Their song “affection” is about the frustration of choosing the wrong people to give your love to, capturing the bittersweet side of relationships and cuffing season. The fall and cuffing season can be an exciting time full of hopeful romance — however, finding the right person for this is important in making the days less lonely.
The lyrics “Oh, I'm looking for affection in all the wrong places / And we'll keep falling on each other to fill the empty spaces” convey the feelings of loneliness and longing for affection — feelings that are especially present during cuffing season. The more melancholy lyrics, combined with a slower indie-pop melody, create a bittersweet feeling that reflects the feelings of looking for intimacy that remains out of reach. The song captures the vulnerability and restlessness that come with the unfulfilled desires for love and intimacy.
“Pure” by The Lightning Seeds
The Lightning Seeds is an English rock band, and their song “Pure” focuses on being in a loving relationship — the end goal of cuffing season. With lyrics that reflect honesty and clarity — “Love is the truth I realise / Not a stream of pretty lies” -– the song emphasizes the significance of love and connection. Through ending the chorus with “Fresh and deep as oceans new / Shiver at the sight of you / I’ll sing a softer tune / Pure and simple over you,” lead singer and writer Ian Broudie captures the fragility and importance of intimacy.
Using a programmed drum machine and a horn to create an upbeat melody, The Lightning Seeds create a unique sound that makes the listener feel the contrast between love being simple and being difficult. Finding a romantic connection can be difficult, yet it is also part of the excitement of cuffing season — when the chilly autumn air inspires the search for new romance.
Music is a way to reflect our feelings, and during this cuffing season, it can help inspire a connection with someone special. This collection of songs that match the changing leaves, cool evenings and romance will help you embrace the fall weather — and help you celebrate your success in cuffing.
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