Fall Into Rap: A Throwback Playlist for Fall 2025

Emma Paff 

Music Journalist Rap/Hip-hop 

Fall into Rap: A throwback playlist for Fall 2025  

In high school, my favorite thing to do to pass the time was to go for walks. It might sound trivial, but I’ve always had a hard time disconnecting from my phone. Walking around my neighborhood and nearby streets allowed me some peace and a break from the constant stimulation. Of course, I wasn’t fully disconnected because my earbuds were always in, but I could wander for hours with someone else’s voice in my ears, silencing my own.  

I’ve been in college for about a year and a half now. The other day I scrolled to the very bottom of my Spotify playlists, and realized I’ve stopped allowing myself those moments of peace. I often feel so busy or stressed that my mental clarity hasn’t been at the forefront for me. With the weather beginning to cool down and the delayed fall of Texas slowly heading in, I want to reconnect. Here were some of my favorite rap songs/artists to unwind to while trekking through my suburban town. 

2020 was the peak of my walking experience, and there is no better album to get lost in the woods to than Spilligion by Spillage Village. The rap collective featuring Earthgang, J.I.D., 6lack, Mereba, Hollywood JB, JurdanBryant, and Benji was a necessity during lockdown. The track “End of Daze” feels like a time capsule, as it captures the doom and desperation during the COVID-19 pandemic. The mindset is purely apocalyptic as each verse dissects their last days on earth. Their song “Oshun” was named after the goddess associated with love, beauty, and fertility. It has a soft and romantic feel with guitars lightly strumming and a subdued drum kick. It’s goosebump inducing chorus featuring Johnny Venus and 6lack is intimate and playful.    

Featuring the artist Lucky Daye, the track “Cupid” has a soulful and effortless beat that will have you grooving down the trail. Johnny Venus’s verse showcases his impeccable ability to switch from rapping to singing as he longs to hear from his romantic partner. My final recommendation from this album is the last track. “Jupiter” keeps on theme with the impending doom of “End of Daze,” but instead of having isolating parts, the group joins hands in the chorus, uniting themselves during their last night. Listening to Spilligion leaves me with a sense of pride; their voices complement each other so beautifully. I’ve never been so entranced by a musical community.  

To continue your peaceful journey, I would recommend playing some Isaiah Rashad. His song “Silkk da Shocka,” from his debut studio album, The Sun’s Tirade, has a calming and airy atmosphere. Rashad’s verses are poetic as he describes the battle between love and addiction. He begins by showcasing the connection between him and his partner. As the melody moves, he starts hearing his addiction “calling” his name, and he leaves her saying, “You know I’m caught in my vibe/but I still give you my rib.”  

Another Rashad track to help quiet your mind is “Headshots,” featuring 4r da Locals. His calming vocals feather on top of the mellowed bars. The melody is complemented by lo-fi transitions, perfect for headphones. For me, one special thing about this song is how it triggers my mindfulness. I can hear every kick, drum, and hi-hat. It’s hazy and soulful but still unhurried and pronounced.    

Replace your racing thoughts with spell-binding lyricism. Duckworth’s discography is the perfect place to become hypnotized. His sound is satisfying, as he combines elements of hip-hop and R&B with rock. The track, “NOBODY FALLS,” from his album, THE FALLING MAN, has been a longtime favorite of mine. Featuring Kiana Ledé, Terrace Martin, and Medasin, this track resonates with the non-committal atmosphere of romance in the modern day. It’s a conversational back and forth between being romantic and distant; everybody wants to feel loved, but nobody wants to fall in love. “NOBODY FALLS” is the perfect song for the trials and tribulations of cuffing season.  

If the crisp, fresh fall air has you feeling nostalgic, it may be time to revisit Bas’s album Too High To Riot. Its ambient and lowkey instrumentals are perfect for nature watching. It’s well-cooled and balanced, allowing for an easy listening experience throughout. The prominent drum kicks and Bas’s melodic switching from singing to rapping make for a great headphones experience.  

Another artist to get in touch with is Aaron May. Whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed or lost, his track, “HIDDEN VOICES,” reminds me that I’m not alone. The pressure to succeed while you feel like everyone is watching can be paralyzing. He reminds me to keep going through the motions even if I don’t know where I’m going. His persona is refreshing because he plays off his ego while still recognizing all the room he needs to grow. Themes of self-protection, reliability, and perseverance are prominent throughout his discography. 

With the semester coming to a close and projects and tests consuming our brains, it’s important to allow ourselves moments of peace and reflection. It’s easier said than done, but don’t forget to take a break, clear your mind, and enjoy the weather while it lasts.