Music for a funeral service can be used for many reasons. For one, the act of playing music for a community can quite literally break an uncomfortable silence or help provide a distraction from people’s thoughts and grief. More often, funeral songs can help a community grieve together and allow for the sharing of ideas, thoughts, and feelings that only music can bring.
When it comes to picking funeral songs or memorial songs, there are a variety of genres that you can choose from. Whether you’re looking for something from a prominent country singer like Garth Brooks or Carrie Underwood, or a timeless classic like Mariah Carey or Luther Vandross, there are countless good funeral songs that can be used to help commemorate a loved one.
As with every other aspect of the funeral services, it’s best to find a funeral song that is personal to the bereaved, friends, and family or perhaps a memorial song by a singer or band that was a particular favorite of the loved one. That being said, when it comes to funeral songs, there are many to choose from that can create the right tone for a funeral service.
Why do people play songs at a funeral?
Funeral songs are an important aspect of memorializing a loved one and can provide comfort and solace during a difficult time. There are various types of funeral songs that one can choose from, including Christian funeral songs, country funeral songs, Catholic funeral songs, and many non-denominational songs, depending on the individual's religious or cultural preferences. When selecting funeral songs, it's essential to consider the preferences and personality of the deceased, as well as the emotional tone you want to set for the funeral or memorial service.
How do you choose appropriate songs for funerals?
Choosing appropriate songs for funerals involves considering the preferences and personality of the deceased, as well as the overall tone and atmosphere desired for the funeral or memorial service. The best funeral songs are those that hold significance to the deceased and their loved ones, and that evoke emotions of comfort, solace, and remembrance. When selecting funeral songs for an older generation, it's important to consider their musical tastes and cultural background, as well as any religious or spiritual preferences. Additionally, modern funeral songs can also be a meaningful choice, as they can reflect the contemporary interests and personality of the deceased, while still maintaining a sense of reverence and respect for the occasion. Ultimately, the key is to choose funeral songs that honor the memory of the deceased and bring comfort to those who are grieving, while also reflecting the unique characteristics and preferences of the person being remembered.
Popular funeral songs are often chosen based on their emotional resonance and meaningful lyrics. Some popular choices include "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen, "Amazing Grace" by John Newton, and "My Way" by Frank Sinatra. These funeral songs are timeless classics that are widely recognized and can evoke strong emotions, providing a fitting tribute to the deceased.
When should you play funeral songs during the service?
When to play funeral songs depends on the specific funeral or memorial service. Funeral songs can be played during various moments, such as during the funeral procession, before or after a eulogy or speech, during a slideshow or video tribute, or as background music during a gathering or reception. It's important to consider the flow and pacing of the funeral or memorial service, as well as the preferences of the family and the wishes of the deceased, when deciding when to play funeral songs.
Choosing the right funeral song playlist for a funeral or memorial service can be a deeply personal and thoughtful process. It's important to consider the personality, preferences, and beliefs of the deceased, as well as the emotional tone you want to convey. You may want to include funeral songs that were meaningful to the deceased or that reflect their faith, culture, or hobbies. Additionally, consider the preferences and comfort of the family and friends attending the service. Consulting with the family and considering their input can help create a funeral song playlist that honors the memory of the deceased and provides comfort to those in attendance.
Many people also like to create memorial websites, where they can easily share funeral information with friends and family members and collect photos and stories.
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Here are 27 popular songs to play at a funeral or memorial service that you can use for a loved one:
27. "Te vas angel mio" by Cornelio Reyna
Genre: Regional Mexican
"Cornelio Reyna - Te vas angel mio" is a popular funeral song, especially among Spanish-speaking communities, making it a fitting choice for songs in Spanish for a funeral. The heartfelt lyrics and emotive melody of this song evoke deep emotions and provide a poignant tribute to a loved one who has passed away. The mournful tone of the song captures the essence of grief and loss, resonating with those who are mourning the loss of a loved one. "Te vas angel mio" is a classic funeral song in the Spanish language, and its soulful music and meaningful lyrics have made it a popular choice for funeral music. This song has become a beloved choice for many families seeking a moving and heartfelt tribute to honor the memory of their loved one during a funeral or memorial service.
26. "Danny Boy"
Genre: Bagpipes
"Danny Boy" played on the bagpipes is a timeless and traditional choice for a funeral, making it a fitting bagpipe funeral song. The mournful tones of the bagpipes combined with the poignant lyrics of "Danny Boy" create a solemn and reverent atmosphere, perfectly suited for a funeral setting. The haunting melody of the bagpipes can evoke deep emotions and provide a sense of comfort and consolation during a time of grief and loss. The bagpipe rendition of "Danny Boy" adds a unique and solemn element to the funeral service, making it a cherished choice for many families during their time of mourning.
25. "You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban
Genre: Pop
"When I am down and, oh my soul, so weary / When troubles come and my heart burdened be / Then, I am still and wait here in the silence / Until You come and sit awhile with me. / You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains / You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas / I am strong, when I am on your shoulders / You raise me up to more than I can be.""You Raise Me Up" by Josh Groban is a popular choice as far as uplifting funeral songs go and can be chosen as one of the celebration of life songs or songs that you might play for a funeral or memorial service. With its inspiring lyrics and powerful melody, it has been embraced as a gospel funeral song that brings comfort and hope during a time of loss. The song's message of finding strength and solace even in the midst of challenges and adversity resonates with many, making it a meaningful choice for a funeral or memorial service. Its soaring vocals and heartfelt lyrics create a powerful atmosphere of remembrance and celebration, making it a fitting choice for honoring the memory of a loved one and providing comfort to those who are grieving.
24. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver
Genre: Country
"Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver can be a poignant choice for a memorial service or funeral for several reasons. First, its heartfelt lyrics about returning to a familiar place and finding peace in nature can evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia, making it a great choice for those looking for songs for a funeral slideshow (or memorial slideshow). The song's gentle melody and acoustic guitar instrumentation also create a soothing and calming ambiance, which can be comforting during a time of grief. Additionally, the song's country folk style may resonate with those who appreciate the genre, making it a great choice if you're looking for funeral songs for men or for your dad (or grandpa). "Take Me Home, Country Roads" can be a meaningful song to play at a funeral or memorial service, providing solace and a sense of connection to the memories of the person being honored."Country roads / Take me home / To the place I belong / West Virginia / Mountain mama / Take me home, country roads / Take me home, country roads / Take me home, country roads."
23. “Spirit in the Sky” by Norman Greenbaum
Genre: Rock
"Spirit in the Sky" by Norman Greenbaum can be a unique and fitting choice for a funeral, particularly for those seeking a more upbeat and lighthearted tone. Its catchy rock melody and lyrics about the afterlife and spirituality can bring a sense of positivity and celebration of life to a memorial service or funeral. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy chorus can also make it a suitable choice for a funeral song for mom or grandma, injecting a sense of joy and energy into the service. Additionally, for those who appreciate a touch of humor, "Spirit in the Sky" can be considered a funny funeral song, as it infuses a sense of whimsy and lightness into the proceedings. Overall, "Spirit in the Sky" can be a great song to play at a funeral, adding a unique and memorable element to the service while still conveying a sense of spiritual connection and celebration of life."Goin' up to the spirit in the sky (spirit in the sky) / That's where I'm gonna go when I die (when I die) / When I die and they lay me to rest / I'm gonna go to the place that's the best."
22. "Satisfied Mind” by Jeff Buckley
Genre: Rock
"When my life is over and my time has run out. / My friends and my loved ones, I'll leave them no doubt. / But, one thing's gone for certain, when it comes my time / I'll leave this old world with a satisfied mind. / Satisfied mind.""Satisfied Mind" by Jeff Buckley can be a poignant and touching choice for a funeral or memorial service, particularly for those seeking a song that conveys a sense of introspection and reflection. Its hauntingly beautiful melody and soulful vocals evoke a sense of melancholy and introspection, making it a beautiful choice for sad funeral songs or memorial service songs. The lyrics, which speak to the pursuit of contentment and fulfillment in life, can resonate with mourners and prompt contemplation about life's meaning and purpose. Jeff Buckley's emotive delivery and the raw emotion in the song can also bring comfort and solace to those grieving, allowing them to connect with their emotions and find solace in music during a challenging time. "Satisfied Mind" can be a heartfelt and meaningful choice for a funeral or memorial service, providing a moment of quiet reflection and emotional resonance for those in attendance.
21. “Angel" by Sarah McLachlan
Genre: Adult contemporary
"In the arms of the angel / Fly away from here / From this dark cold hotel room / And the endlessness that you fear / You are pulled from the wreckage /Of your silent reverie / You're in the arms of the angel / May you find some comfort here."
20. “Bye Bye” by Mariah Carey
Genre: R&B, Hip-Hop
This beautiful song by Mariah Carey is easy for many people to relate to after losing someone close to them. The song conveys both feelings of longing, as well as some sense of peace. In the chorus, she sings, "And I'm sure you reached a better place / And still I'd give the world to see your face / Me right here, next to you / But it's like you're gone too soon / Now the hardest thing to do is say / Bye, bye."
19. “Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle
Genre: Pop, Christian
While not originally written as a funeral song, "Butterfly Kisses" is common addition to other Christian songs for a memorial or funeral service, especially after the loss of a child. (It should also be mentioned that religious funeral songs can be used in Christian services or non-denominational services.) The song is sung from the perspective of a father watching his daughter grow up. It shares a deep appreciation for the time he had with his daughter and the difficulty of giving her away. In the song, she's being given away at her wedding, but the lines can also strike a chord with those who have lost a daughter: "Oh with all that I've done wrong / I must have done something right / To deserve her love every morning / And butterfly kisses / I couldn't ask god for more, man, this is what love is / I know I've gotta let her go, but I'll always remember / Every hug in the morning, and butterfly kisses."
18. “Nightingale” by Demi Lovato
Genre: Pop
Demi Lovato wrote Nightingale after losing a friend to suicide as a teenager, giving it a deeply personal feel. She has mentioned in interviews that she feels that he's her guardian angel, and this comes across in the chorus of the song: "Can you be my nightingale? / Sing to me / I know you're there / You could be my sanity / Bring me peace / Sing me to sleep / Say you'll be my nightingale."
17. “Like You’ll Never See Me Again” by Alicia Keys
Genre: R&B
"Like You'll Never See Me Again" was written as a love song, but it's message centers on appreciating every moment you have with someone, because you never know when it could be the last. Lines like, "I don't wanna forget the present is a gift / And I don't wanna take for granted / The time you may have here with me / Cause Lord only knows another day here's not really guaranteed" make the song a popular funeral song as well, reminding everyone to appreciate the time they have.
16. “Sad Song” by We The Kings featuring Elena Coats
Genre: Pop
In a collaboration between We The Kings and Elena Coats, "Sad Song" examines the deep feeling of loss after the death of someone close to you. Many people can relate to the feelings the song shares: "Without you, I feel broke / Like I'm half of a whole / Without you, I've got no hand to hold / Without you, I feel torn / Like a sail in a storm / Without you, I'm just a sad song / I'm just a sad song."
15. “One Call Away” by Charlie Puth
Genre: Pop
Written about being far away from someone you love, "One Call Away" can also feel deep and meaningful at a funeral or memorial service. As a memorial song, many people interpret the chorus, "I'm only one call away / I'll be there to save the day / Superman got nothing on me / I'm only one call away," as reminding listeners that they can still reach their loved one through prayer.
14. “Lay Me Down” by Sam Smith
Genre: Pop
As Sam Smith's first single in his debut album, "Lay Me Down" is about someone who the singer is desperately missing. He starts the song on a longing, yet hopeful, note, singing, "Yes I do, I believe / That one day I will be where I was / Right there, right next to you / And it's hard, the days just seem so dark / The moon, the stars are nothing without you."
13. “Hello” by Adele
Genre: Pop
While the hit song "Hello" was written about a lost romance, many people find that it makes a powerful funeral or memorial song. Soulful lines like, "They say that time's supposed to heal ya, but I ain't done much healing" and "Hello from the other side / I must've called a thousand times / To tell you, I'm sorry for everything that I've done" add a lot of deep emotion, but some people find that the song only adds to their sadness.
12. “God’s Will” by Martina McBride
Genre: Country
On Martina McBrides 2013 album, Martina, God's Will tells the story of a young boy who was dealt a bad hand, but continued to look out for everyone else. In the last verse of the song, she sings, "Before they moved to California / His mother said, they didn't think he'd live / And she said each day that I have him / Well, it's just another gift / And I never got to tell her / That the boy showed me the truth / In crayon red, on notebook paper, he'd written / Me and God love you." The song can have a powerful impact, especially at the funeral of a child. Instead of focusing on the loss, it encourages listeners to focus on the beauty of the time they had with their loved one.
11. “River Of Tears” by Alessia Cara
Genre: Pop
"River of Tears" is about the loss of a romance, but many people find the song comforting in the context of a funeral because of the message of hope at the end of the song. While the song starts by sharing her deep pain caused by the loss and the tears that she'd cried, the chorus provides hope for her future, starting with: "I'm going down, and you have watched me drown / In a river of tears, lost beneath the stream / Under the waves, I've found the strength to say / The river of tears has washed me clean."
10. “Well Done” by Deitrick Haddon
Genre: Soul, Gospel
"Well Done" by Deitrick Haddon is a compelling choice for those seeking gospel songs for funerals or Christian songs for funerals. This uplifting and powerful song is infused with heartfelt lyrics that speak to the Christian belief in the afterlife and the hope of eternal reward. Its energetic gospel sound, soulful vocals, and triumphant chorus can inspire feelings of faith, joy, and celebration of life, making it a fitting choice for a gospel funeral song. The lyrics express messages of victory, faith, and a sense of accomplishment, providing comfort and reassurance to mourners during a difficult time. The soul-stirring performance and powerful message of "Well Done" by Deitrick Haddon can create a spiritually uplifting and comforting atmosphere at a funeral, making it a meaningful choice for those seeking gospel funeral songs."When this life is over / I just wanna have eternal life, Oh wanna hear Him say / Well done / Well done / Well done / You can come on in."
9. “A Mother’s Prayer” by K. Michelle
Genre: R&B, Soul
"A Mother's Prayer" is about a mother wishing the best for her child and wanting to ensure their strong bond. It's often chosen as a song for a child's funeral, as the meanings of the lyrics can be interpreted to be about wanting the best for your child in Heaven. Lines like, "And even though I'm not there to tuck you in every day, I'm not far away / This is what a mother prays" can help families feel closer to a child they've lost.
8. “Purpose” by Justin Bieber
Genre: Pop
Pop star Justin Bieber wrote this piano ballad about his relationship with God, and the heartfelt lyrics help many people feel encouragement after losing a loved one. In the chorus, he sings, "And you've given me the best gift / That I've ever known / You give me purpose everyday / You give me purpose in every way." For those wanting to take meaning from a loss, the song can feel powerful and motivating.
7. “Drink A Beer” by Luke Bryan
Genre: Country
"Drink A Beer" by Luke Bryan is a poignant and heartfelt choice for songs at funerals for dads or songs for a dad's funeral. The song's tender lyrics and melancholic melody capture the emotions of grief and loss that come with the passing of a father. The song speaks to the pain of losing someone close and the process of mourning, while also offering solace and comfort in the form of shared memories and cherished moments. The lyrics reflect on the memories of the father, and the act of raising a beer in his honor becomes a symbolic gesture of remembrance and tribute. "Drink A Beer" by Luke Bryan is a touching tribute to a father's memory, making it a fitting choice for funeral songs about dad or songs for a dad's funeral, and can evoke powerful emotions while honoring the legacy of a beloved father.
6. “Broken Halos” by Chris Stapleton
Genre: Country
Chris Stapleton wrote "Broken Halos" with Mike Henderson on the same day that he lost a childhood friend to cancer. The song won a Grammy for Best Country song in 2018. The first chorus gives many people a feeling of comfort, focusing on how their loved ones have moved on to help others: "Angels come down from the heavens / Just to help us on our way / Come to teach us, then they leave us / And they find some other soul to save."
5. “Hold Back The River” by James Bay
Genre: Folk Rock, Soul
"Hold Back the River" is a powerful, relatable song about missing someone. In the chorus, James Back sings, "Hold back the river, let me look in your eyes / Hold back the river, so I / Can stop for a minute and see where you hide / Hold back the river, hold back"
4. “Let Her Go” by Passenger
Genre: Folk Rock, Indie Rock Let her go is a melancholic song about missing someone and not appreciating what you had until it's gone. The chorus ends with, "Only know you've been high when you're feeling low / Only hate the road when you're missing home / Only know you love her when you let her go / And you let her go..." The song is unlikely to lighten the mood, but many people feel that the lyrics and tone speak to them.
3. “Dance With My Father” by Luther Vandross
Genre: Pop
"Dance With My Father" is a popular song selected for a father's funeral. The song talks about the fond memories Luther has of his father, and how much he and his mother miss him. The chorus sings, "If I could get another chance / Another walk / Another dance with him / I'd play a song that would never ever end / How I'd love love love / To dance with my father again."
2. “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth
Genre: Pop, Rap"See You Again" quickly became a popular funeral song after being featured in the Fast and the Furious franchise's send off to actor Paul Walker after he died in a car crash. The song acknowledges the depth of the loss, but shares a message of hope, that you will see your loved one again: "It's been a long day without you, my friend / And I'll tell you all about it when I see you again / We've come a long way from where we began /Oh, I'll tell you all about it when I see you again."
1. “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton
Genre: Soft Rock
"Tears in Heaven" has been one of the best known funeral songs for decades. Eric Clapton wrote the song after losing his 4-year-old son in a tragic accident in 1991. The song is somber, but also conveys a message of strength and perseverance with lines like, "I must be strong and carry on / ‘Cause I know I don't belong here in heaven."
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Funeral songs
Last updated April 16, 2023
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