“Love Deluxe” —Sade
Released on Oct. 26, 1992, Sade’s fourth album transports listeners into a virtual introspective experience with its melancholy and luxurious sound. Often praised as a forever classic, Sade’s “Love Deluxe” brings out all the fall feels. This mellow album even allowed more modern classics to be born with critically acclaimed rapper MF DOOM bringing us “Doomsday” by sampling track 5 “Kiss of Life.” The rich soul and trip-hop filled album ranks at No. 247 on Rolling Stone’s Top 500 Albums of All Time.
“Mama’s Gun” — Erykah Badu
Selling over 200,000 copies its first week, after being released on Nov. 21, 1992, “Mama’s Gun” remains one of the most influential neo-soul albums to this day. Inspired by the greats such as Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd and created alongside Soulquarian artists such as J Dilla and The Roots’ drummer Questlove, this album’s warm atmosphere shifts you away from the bright sounds of summer and makes it one of the best fall picks. Filled with poetic lyricism and funk-filled breakdowns this lush album ranks at No. 185 on Rolling Stone’s Top 500 Albums of All Time.
“Greatest Hits” — Al Green
Released on May 29, 1975, the “Greatest Hits” compilation contains 10 tracks over a five-year period of Green’s best material. Each track feels just as new with every listen and immerses you into its gritty, R&B, southern soul. Creating a cool and cozy atmosphere bringing out all the fall tones with its slow tempo throughout, this sweet and smooth album ranks at No. 456 on Rolling Stone’s Top 500 Albums of All Time.
“Songs in The Key of Life” – Stevie Wonder
Undeniably one of the greatest albums of all time, “Songs In The Key Of Life” has it all. The influences of jazz, soul, hip-hop and even modern-pop are all heavily scattered throughout this eclectic album. Wonder’s 18th studio album later influenced and laid the foundation for many artists such as Michael Jackson, Prince and even Coolio. This album brings the perfect blend of bittersweet tranquility and bright sounds together for a great addition to your fall mix. The ambitious and innovative album ranks at No. 4 on Rolling Stone’s Top 500 Albums of All Time.
“Blonde” – Frank Ocean
Released on Aug. 20, 2016, this epitome of a masterpiece and indie R&B pop-soul filled album creates an intense emotional environment for any and all listeners. The album follows themes of heartbreak, sexuality, identity and overall everyday life struggles while bringing a sense of vulnerability to the table. Soft synths and warm tones tie this album together, making it a fall go-to. Ranking at No. 79 on Rolling Stone’s Top 500 Albums of All Time, a scenic drive to this album during the fall might even be better for one’s mental health than therapy.
Daya Sanchez is the Arts and Entertainment editor and a photo editor at the Express. See more of her work @czdayaaa on X.
