Finding the right music to honor a loved one during a funeral can be a powerful way to express emotions and pay tribute to their life. Contemporary pop songs offer relatable lyrics and melodies that can resonate with a wide audience, making them a meaningful choice for such a poignant occasion. Below is a list of 30 contemporary pop songs that are well-suited for funerals, helping to convey love, loss, and remembrance.
Table Of Contents
What makes a pop funeral song perfect for a funeral?
What pop funeral songs should I choose for my loved ones funeral?
5 Examples Of Upbeat pop Funeral Songs
5 Examples Of Sad pop Funeral Songs
30 Examples Of Funeral Songs To Play At A Funeral With Music Videos
Factors to Consider When Choosing a pop song for a funeral
Pop Funeral Songs Overview:
- “Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran
- “Lay Me Down” by Sam Smith
- “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth
- “Jealous” by Labrinth
- “Dancing with Your Ghost” by Sasha Sloan
- “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
- “Photograph” by Ed Sheeran
- “When We Were Young” by Adele
- “Piece by Piece” by Kelly Clarkson
- “Heaven” by Beyoncé
- “You’ll Be in My Heart” by Phil Collins
- “Unsteady” by X Ambassadors
- “Tears Dry on Their Own” by Amy Winehouse
- “Memories” by Maroon 5
- “Invisible String” by Taylor Swift
- “Rise Up” by Andra Day
- “I’ll Be There” by Jess Glynne
- “Hold My Hand” by Jess Glynne
- “Rainbow” by Kacey Musgraves
- “Glorious” by Macklemore ft. Skylar Grey
- “Only Love” by Ben Howard
- “Forever Young” by Jay-Z
- “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron
- “Angel” by Sarah McLachlan
- “If I Die Young” by The Band Perry
- “Carry You” by Ruelle
- “All I Want” by Kodaline
- “Happier” by Marshmello ft. Bastille
- “Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur
- “See You Again” by Carrie Underwood
What makes an pop songs funeral perfect for funerals, wakes or memorial services?
In recent years, contemporary pop music has become a popular choice for funeral services. These songs, often relatable and emotionally charged, can reflect the personality and life of the deceased, making the service more personalized and memorable.
Pop songs are also ideal for celebration of life ceremonies where you want the ceremony to be uplifting.
Pop songs are ideal for funerals and memorial services because they offer emotional resonance through relatable themes of love, loss, and hope, which are central to the grieving process. Their wide appeal across different age groups and cultural backgrounds ensures that the music can connect with a diverse audience, creating an inclusive and comforting atmosphere.
The memorable melodies of pop songs make them easy for attendees to sing along with and remember, which can enhance the personal connection to the deceased. Furthermore, choosing pop music allows for a highly personalized tribute, reflecting the tastes and personality of the person being honored and making the service more meaningful and intimate.
What pop funeral songs should I choose for my loved ones funeral?
When it comes to picking an pop farewell song for your loved ones’ funeral there are many things to consider. Pop songs come in many different versions and many different tempos. Some pop music can be upbeat and rowdy whereas many other pop songs can be softer and often haunting.
Upbeat pop funeral songs:
If you are looking for upbeat pop funeral songs, then music from pop artists like Beyonce, Mariah Carey or Robbie Williams can often provide you with the upbeat music you are looking for.
5 examples of upbeat funeral songs
- Glorious” by Macklemore ft. Skylar Grey
- “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
- “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day
- “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors
- “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake
Sad Pop Funeral Songs:
If you are looking for sad pop funeral songs that are softer and evoke sadness then music from pop artists such as Elton John, Gareth Brooks, and Celine Dion can often provide you with a more melancholic feel.
5 examples of sad pop songs:
These are 5 examples of sad pop funeral songs you could use at a funeral
- “Fix You” by Coldplay
- “Hurt” by Christina Aguilera
- “Yesterday” by The Beatles
- “The A Team” by Ed Sheeran
- “Goodbye My Lover” by James Blunt
Below we have put together 30 other popular pop funeral songs which can be played at your loved ones funeral, wake or memorial service. These pop funeral songs offer themes of love, loss and resilience. We have selected a variation of upbeat and haunting songs to hopefully help you find the right fit for your loved ones funeral service.
30 Of The Best Pop Songs for a Funeral
1. “Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran wrote “Supermarket Flowers” as a tribute to his late grandmother, capturing the tender moments of saying goodbye. The song’s lyrics reflect on clearing out her belongings, which serves as a metaphor for coming to terms with loss. The line, “A heart that’s broke is a heart that’s been loved,” resonates deeply, offering solace to those grieving by reminding them that their pain is a testament to the love they shared. The song’s gentle melody and Sheeran’s emotional delivery make it a touching and relatable choice for a funeral.
2. “Lay Me Down” by Sam Smith
“Lay Me Down” is a deeply emotional ballad that speaks to the heartache of losing someone dear. Sam Smith’s powerful voice conveys a raw sense of grief, making it a cathartic experience for listeners. The lyrics, “Can I lay by your side? Next to you, you,” express a profound longing for closeness, even after death. This song is ideal for a funeral because it allows mourners to connect with their own feelings of sorrow and loss while also finding comfort in the shared experience of grief.
3. “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth
Originally written for the soundtrack of Furious 7 as a tribute to the late actor Paul Walker, “See You Again” has become a universal anthem of remembrance and hope. The lyrics, “It’s been a long day without you, my friend, and I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again,” speak to the pain of separation while also offering the comforting thought of eventual reunion. The song’s blend of rap and pop, combined with its uplifting melody, makes it a powerful choice for celebrating the life of someone who has passed.
4. “Jealous” by Labrinth
“Jealous” is a song that captures the complex emotions surrounding loss, including feelings of envy towards those who still have their loved ones. Labrinth’s soulful performance brings out the raw pain of missing someone, with lyrics like, “I’m jealous of the way you’re happy without me.” The song’s deep emotional resonance and haunting melody make it a poignant choice for a funeral, where it can help express the difficult feelings that often accompany grief.
5. “Dancing with Your Ghost” by Sasha Sloan
This song is a hauntingly beautiful expression of the emptiness felt after losing someone close. Sasha Sloan’s soft, melancholic vocals perfectly convey the sorrow of longing for someone who is no longer there. The lyrics, “I stay up all night, tell myself I’m alright, baby, you’re just harder to see than most,” reflect the denial and difficulty in accepting the reality of loss. “Dancing with Your Ghost” is ideal for a funeral because it captures the lingering presence of the deceased in our lives, even after they’re gone.
6. “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
“A Thousand Years” is widely recognized for its message of eternal love, originally written for the Twilight saga. The lyrics, “I have loved you for a thousand years, I’ll love you for a thousand more,” speak to a love that transcends time and continues even after death. The song’s soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a comforting choice for a funeral, offering the assurance that the bonds of love remain unbroken.
7. “Photograph” by Ed Sheeran
“Photograph” is about the power of memories and the comfort they provide in times of loss. Ed Sheeran’s reflective lyrics, “We keep this love in a photograph, we made these memories for ourselves,” emphasize the importance of holding onto the moments shared with loved ones. The song’s gentle guitar and nostalgic tone make it a fitting tribute during a funeral, where memories are often the focus of remembrance.
8. “When We Were Young” by Adele
Adele’s “When We Were Young” is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the memories that define us. The lyrics, “Let me photograph you in this light in case it is the last time,” speak to the desire to hold onto moments that can never be relived. The song’s deep emotional resonance, combined with Adele’s powerful vocals, makes it a moving choice for a funeral, particularly for reflecting on the life and times shared with the deceased.
9. “Piece by Piece” by Kelly Clarkson
“Piece by Piece” tells a story of healing and finding strength after being broken. Kelly Clarkson’s personal lyrics about overcoming abandonment and finding love again make this song a powerful testament to resilience. The chorus, “Piece by piece, you restored my faith,” can resonate with those who have lost someone but are beginning to find hope and healing in their memories. It’s an uplifting choice for a funeral, offering a message of recovery and the enduring power of love.
10. “Heaven” by Beyoncé
“Heaven” is a song that poignantly addresses the grief of losing someone close. Beyoncé’s soulful delivery of the lyrics, “Heaven couldn’t wait for you, so go on, go home,” reflects the deep sorrow of parting while also suggesting a sense of peace and acceptance. The song’s powerful emotional impact makes it an ideal choice for a funeral, where it can provide comfort and a sense of closure.
11. “You’ll Be in My Heart” by Phil Collins
Originally composed for the Disney film Tarzan, “You’ll Be in My Heart” has become a timeless song about enduring love. The lyrics, “No matter what they say, you’ll be here in my heart, always,” offer reassurance that the bond with the deceased will never be broken. Its gentle melody and comforting message make it a suitable choice for honoring a loved one during a funeral, especially for expressing parental love or the connection between close family members.
12. “Unsteady” by X Ambassadors
“Unsteady” is a song that captures the feeling of being lost and ungrounded after the death of a loved one. The chorus, “Hold on to me, ’cause I’m a little unsteady,” expresses the vulnerability and need for support during difficult times. The song’s haunting melody and raw lyrics make it a powerful choice for a funeral, especially for those who are struggling to cope with the enormity of their loss.
13. “Tears Dry on Their Own” by Amy Winehouse
This song reflects on the process of moving forward after a painful loss. Amy Winehouse’s candid lyrics, “I’ll be some next man’s other woman soon, I shouldn’t play myself again, I should just be my own best friend,” speak to the journey of healing and finding strength in independence. The song’s upbeat tempo contrasts with its introspective lyrics, offering a sense of resilience and the idea that life, though forever changed, will go on.
14. “Memories” by Maroon 5
“Memories” is a song that honors the good times shared with those who have passed. The lyrics, “Here’s to the ones that we got, cheers to the wish you were here but you’re not,” perfectly encapsulate the bittersweet nature of remembering loved ones. Its simple yet powerful message of cherishing memories makes it an ideal choice for a funeral, providing both comfort and a sense of connection to the past.
15. “Invisible String” by Taylor Swift
“Invisible String” explores the idea of an unseen force that connects us to those we love, even after they’re gone. Taylor Swift’s lyrics, “Time, curious time, gave me no compasses, gave me no signs, were there clues I didn’t see?” suggest that the connections we make in life endure beyond physical presence. This song is a comforting choice for a funeral, offering the reassurance that the bonds we share with the deceased remain intact, even in death.
16. “Rise Up” by Andra Day
“Rise Up” is an anthem of perseverance and strength in the face of adversity. Andra Day’s powerful vocals and the song’s uplifting message make it a fitting tribute to someone who faced challenges with courage. The lyrics, “And I’ll rise up, I’ll rise like the day,” can inspire those grieving to find strength in their memories and to honor the resilience of their loved one.
17. “I’ll Be There” by Jess Glynne
This song is about unwavering support and the promise of always being there for someone. Jess Glynne’s lyrics, “When all the tears are rolling down your face, and it feels like your heart was the only one to break,” offer comfort and reassurance to those in mourning. The song’s message of enduring love and support makes it an ideal choice for a funeral, where it can serve as a reminder of the lasting impact the deceased had on the lives of others.
18. “Hold My Hand” by Jess Glynne
“Hold My Hand” is a song that provides solace during tough times, with lyrics that encourage finding strength in companionship. Jess Glynne sings, “I’m ready for this, there’s no denying, I’m ready for this, you stop me falling,” offering a message of hope and reassurance. This song is particularly suitable for a funeral, as it speaks to the importance of leaning on loved ones for support in times of grief.
19. “Rainbow” by Kacey Musgraves
“Rainbow” offers a gentle message of hope and the promise of better days ahead. The lyrics, “It’ll all be alright, the sky is finally open,” suggest that even after the darkest storms, there is light on the horizon. Kacey Musgraves’ soothing voice and the song’s calming melody make it a comforting choice for a funeral, providing a sense of peace and the assurance that life, though changed, will continue.
20. “Glorious” by Macklemore ft. Skylar Grey
“Glorious” is a song that celebrates life and the legacy left behind by those who have passed. The lyrics, “I feel glorious, glorious, got a chance to start again,” speak to the idea of renewal and the positive impact one can leave on the world. Its uplifting message and celebratory tone make it a fitting choice for a funeral that aims to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, focusing on the joy they brought to others.
21. “Only Love” by Ben Howard
“Only Love” is a song that captures the enduring nature of love, making it a beautiful tribute to someone who has passed away. Ben Howard’s lyrics, “Darling, you’ll be as good as new, I’ll be loving you always,” reflect the idea that love transcends time and physical presence. The song’s gentle acoustic melody and heartfelt lyrics make it an ideal choice for a funeral, offering a message of eternal love and remembrance.
22. “Forever Young” by Jay-Z
Jay-Z’s “Forever Young” is a modern take on the classic theme of preserving youth and vitality in memory. The lyrics, “Fear not when, fear not why, fear not much while we’re alive,” encourage living life fully and without regret. The song’s upbeat yet reflective nature makes it a fitting choice for a funeral, especially for celebrating the life of someone who lived life with passion and left a lasting legacy.
23. “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron
“The Night We Met” is a hauntingly beautiful song about longing and the memories of a loved one. The lyrics, “I had all and then most of you, some and now none of you,” express the deep sorrow of losing someone dear. The song’s ethereal melody and introspective lyrics make it a poignant choice for a funeral, particularly for moments of quiet reflection and remembrance.
24. “Angel” by Sarah McLachlan
“Angel” is a timeless song that has comforted many during times of loss. Sarah McLachlan’s soothing voice and the song’s peaceful melody create a serene atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for a funeral. The lyrics, “In the arms of the angel, fly away from here,” offer a sense of release and peace, suggesting that the deceased has found rest and is now free from pain.
25. “If I Die Young” by The Band Perry
“If I Die Young” is a song that reflects on the brevity of life and the impact one can have, no matter how short their time on earth. The lyrics, “The sharp knife of a short life, well, I’ve had just enough time,” convey a poignant message about making the most of the time we have. The song’s bittersweet tone and reflective lyrics make it a fitting choice for a funeral, especially for honoring someone who passed away young.
26. “Carry You” by Ruelle
“Carry You” is a song about carrying the love and memories of someone who has passed away. The lyrics, “I’ll carry you, I’ll carry you,” emphasize the idea that the deceased will always be with us in spirit. Ruelle’s ethereal voice and the song’s haunting melody create a sense of comfort and connection, making it a meaningful choice for a funeral, where the focus is on the enduring bond with the loved one.
27. “All I Want” by Kodaline
“All I Want” is a heartfelt song about love and loss, capturing the deep emotions felt when someone passes away. The lyrics, “If you loved me, why’d you leave me?” express the confusion and pain of loss, while also highlighting the strength of the love that remains. Kodaline’s powerful vocals and the song’s emotional depth make it a moving choice for a funeral, providing an outlet for the grief and love felt by those left behind.
28. “Happier” by Marshmello ft. Bastille
“Happier” explores the bittersweet nature of parting ways, whether through a breakup or the loss of a loved one. The lyrics, “I want you to be happier,” suggest a selfless desire for the other person’s peace and happiness, even if it means letting go. The song’s upbeat tempo and relatable lyrics make it a unique choice for a funeral, offering a message of acceptance and the wish for the deceased to find peace.
29. “Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur
“Say You Won’t Let Go” is a love song that speaks to commitment and the enduring memory of a loved one. The lyrics, “I’m gonna love you till my lungs give out,” express a deep, lifelong devotion that doesn’t end with death. James Arthur’s soulful delivery and the song’s heartfelt message make it a touching tribute at a funeral, especially for honoring the memory of a spouse or partner.
30. “See You Again” by Carrie Underwood
“See You Again” is a hopeful song about the belief in reuniting with loved ones in the afterlife. The lyrics, “I’ll see you again, this is not where it ends,” offer comfort and solace to those in mourning, suggesting that the separation is only temporary. Carrie Underwood’s powerful vocals and the song’s uplifting message make it an ideal choice for a funeral, providing hope and reassurance to those grieving.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Irish Farewell Song
Personal Significance
The most fitting pop farewell song is one that held personal significance for the deceased. This could be a favorite song, a tune that resonates with their life story, or one that captures their personality and spirit. Consulting with close family members and friends can help identify songs that were meaningful to the departed.
Lyrical Content
The lyrics of the song should be considered carefully. Many pop songs contain themes of love, loss, hope, and remembrance. Ensure that the lyrics are appropriate for the occasion and reflect the sentiments you wish to convey.
Musical Style and Mood
Pop music encompasses a wide range of styles, from old time classic tunes to contemporary ballads. The mood of the song should match the tone of the funeral service you want to organize. A more somber and reflective tune may be suitable for traditional services, while a lively, celebratory song might be fitting for a wake or memorial that focuses on celebrating life.
Cultural and Religious Considerations
If the funeral service includes religious elements, it may be important to choose a song that aligns with the spiritual beliefs and practices of the deceased and their family. Traditional hymns and sacred songs can add a layer of cultural and religious reverence to the service and may be the perfect farewell song.
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