Some songs just fit the colder seasons more perfectly. Here are a few throwback bops and ballads that set the tone for that autumn mood and feeling. 

“Rain Sound” - B.A.P 

This one’s for all the BABY’s out there. B.A.P’s second EP, ONE SHOT, came with five tracks highlighting the many areas the group excelled in—rap, vocals, and performance. “Rain Sound” stood out as the only ballad-esque track on the album, allowing members Youngjae and Daehyun to shine vocally in tandem with the exquisite raps always expected from Yongguk and Zelo. There’s so much to love in this track, but the incredible high notes in the bridge absolutely elevate this song to another level. 

“HELLO” - NU’EST

NU’EST officially completed their group activities earlier this year, concluding a 10-year long journey as a group and leaving behind a discography full of gems. “HELLO” is one track from the very early stages of their promotions, released in 2013. Although released in February, the foggy backdrop, muted color palette, and solemn performances by the members in the video fit the autumn aesthetics well. 

“Missing” - TEEN TOP

Heartbreak and longing seem to fit the themes of an autumn mood. This TEEN TOP track has all that and more. TEEN TOP remained fairly consistent with their heartthrob/boy-crush concept throughout their releases; this track felt slightly more refined in its delivery and offered a sharpened edge to their usual style. Between the drama of the video are performance sequences against the withered backdrop of an abandoned train station, fitting into the darker tones of the autumn feeling.

“TRIED TO WALK” - B1A4

Among B1A4’s earlier, eccentric, and lighthearted releases were tracks like “TRIED TO WALK,” which expertly encompassed the many shades of this group. From the masterful composition by former member Jinyoung to the fantastic vocals throughout, this song was an image shift that revealed the hidden potential of the group. Released in the fall of 2012, “TRIED TO WALK” is perfect for the autumn mood—or walking somberly through a forest or secret garden (like the video). 

“IT HURTS” - 2NE1

“IT HURTS” is perfect for the autumn feeling and the Halloween season, with a companion video full of macabre sets and horror-inspired style. The melody is both calming and heart-wrenching, leaning into the wistful vocals of every member of the quartet. The atypical gothic styling of the members is memorable here, offering an image that was much different than the signature bright and funky 2NE1 style. 

“고엽 (Autumn Leaves)” - BTS

It’s in the title! SUGA’s beautiful R&B and hip-hop composition is a staple for the fall season, fully embodying the ambiance conveyed in its title through its lyrics and melody. In this track, every member shines in some way—for the author, j-hope’s verse in particular will forever remain iconic. Don’t forget to add this essential track to your autumn playlist. 

Edited by Erin Rupprecht