JoySauce Radio: A Playlist for Fall

With the weather cooling down and the vibes skewing moodier, here are a few songs from Asian diasporic artists to usher in autumn

Words by Anjana Pawa

JoySauce Radio: Consider JoySauce Radio our own personal song recommendations—from the tunes and videos our writers love to DJ-produced mixes of dance floor bangers—all from Asian and Pacific Islander artists around the world. 

As we say goodbye to the hot days of summer and the air begins to cool, the vibes of our playlist might also see a shift. Like the changing leaves, our mood begins to change, and with it so do the songs we listen to, which will guide us through the contemplative and darker atmosphere that usually defines the fall months. Join JoySauce Radio in this metaphorical musical switch, where we explore rich, melancholic notes that match the cadence of autumn's arrival.

“Vertigo” by Griff

We’re so glad Griff is back, and with a high energy track that’s even Taylor Swift-approved. The song is a heartbreak anthem, but the upbeat backtrack makes you want to dance along. Griff’s voice is full of depth, and the way she sings the lyrics on top of her self-produced melody keeps the listener going back for more. Even though she’s only just working on her debut album, the Black Chinese Britain native has already secured her quintessential sound. 

“ur so pretty” by Wasia Project

If you’ve been binging “Heartstopper” like the rest of us, you may have heard this song in an episode in the latest season. This English duo is made up of William Gao, who plays Tao on the show, and his sister Olivia Hardy. It’s a beautiful love song that plays over a simple but memorable piano melody. 

“Locket” by Audrey Nuna

This new track by Audrey Nuna is incredibly interesting and fun. The 24-year-old Korean American is not afraid to play with sounds that might make your eyes go wide, and this is a track that will do that in the best way. When you first listen, you might recognize the sample of Huey’s “Pop, Lock & Drop It” but Nuna takes the sample, creates her own soundscape around it, and from it comes this track.

“Skeleton” by Paravi

Paravi is not afraid to be vulnerable, and she proves it on her latest self-titled EP. “Skeleton” sits right at the beginning of the EP’s tracklist and sets the tone for the entire six-track run. It’s honest, it’s broody, it’s unapologetic, and the production, which is heavy with drums, has the capacity to send chills down your spine at times. The accompanying video is bright and full of color, almost juxtaposing the darker lyrics and themes of the song.

“With You” by AP Dhillon

If you’re on TikTok, you’ve definitely heard this one. This may have been a summer bop for many, but it will stay with us well into the fall. Something about the melody is so captivating and carefree, and AP Dhillon’s raspy vocals shine on a track like this. One of the most memorable parts of this release is the self-made music video he paired with it, which features his girlfriend. It encapsulates full loverboy vibes, a departure from his usual, more masculine facade.

Published on September 27, 2023

Words by Anjana Pawa

Anjana Pawa is a Brooklyn-based culture reporter who regularly covers music, entertainment and beauty. You can find her on Twitter at @apawawrites.