150+ Examples Of Popular Funeral Songs

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Table of Contents

Why Picking the Right Funeral Song Is Important

Different Types of Funeral Songs

Traditional Hymns

Classical Music

Contemporary Songs

Popular and Country Songs

Songs for Reflection and Remembrance

Gospel and Spiritual Songs

Instrumental and Ambient Music

Songs for Celebrating Life

150 Examples Of Popular Funeral Songs

How to Choose the Right Funeral Songs

Why Picking the Right Funeral Song Is Important

Funeral songs play an important role in setting the tone of the service, evoking emotions, and helping attendees reflect on the memories shared with the deceased. Whether you choose traditional hymns, classical pieces, or contemporary music, the songs you select should be meaningful and reflective of the person’s life. Music has the power to transcend words, offering a shared experience of reflection, remembrance, and, ultimately, healing.

The right selection of funeral songs can create an atmosphere that honors the deceased’s personality, beliefs, and passions. It can also bring comfort to those who are grieving, providing a sense of closure or even celebration of a life well-lived. Therefore, the process of selecting funeral songs should be approached with care, thoughtfulness, and sensitivity to the unique individual being memorialized.

Different Types of Funeral Songs

1. Traditional Hymns

Traditional hymns have been a staple in funeral services for centuries, particularly in religious ceremonies. These songs often carry deep spiritual significance and can provide comfort to those who share the same faith as the deceased. Hymns are known for their timeless messages of hope, redemption, and eternal peace, making them an ideal choice for funerals where faith and spirituality are central themes.

Popular Traditional Hymns:

• “Amazing Grace” – Written by John Newton, this hymn is perhaps the most famous funeral song of all time. Its themes of forgiveness, redemption, and salvation resonate deeply, offering a sense of hope even in the darkest times. Judy Collins’ version is particularly popular.
• “The Lord is My Shepherd (Psalm 23)” – This hymn, based on Psalm 23, is a source of comfort for many. It speaks of God’s guidance and protection, offering peace and reassurance. The Choir of King’s College, Cambridge has a well-known rendition.
• “Abide with Me” – Composed by Henry Francis Lyte, this hymn is a plea for God’s presence in times of trouble and is often sung at Christian funerals. Katherine Jenkins’ rendition is widely recognized.
• “How Great Thou Art” – A hymn of praise and worship, often associated with feelings of awe and reverence towards God’s creation. Elvis Presley’s version is particularly beloved.
• “Nearer, My God, to Thee” – Written by Sarah Flower Adams, this hymn is a poignant expression of a desire to be closer to God in times of sorrow. The Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s version is a popular choice.

2. Classical Music for Funerals

For those seeking a more serene and reflective atmosphere, classical music can be an excellent choice. These compositions are timeless and can bring a sense of peace, solemnity, and beauty to the service. Classical music is often chosen for its ability to convey deep emotions without the need for words, allowing mourners to reflect on their memories and emotions in a personal and introspective way.

Notable Classical Pieces:

• “Ave Maria” by Franz Schubert – A classical piece often associated with funerals, revered for its beauty and tranquility. This piece has been performed by many artists, with Luciano Pavarotti’s version being one of the most celebrated.
• “Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel – This piece is known for its gentle and calming melody, making it a popular choice for both weddings and funerals. Its repetition and gradual build-up offer a soothing presence.
• “Adagio for Strings” by Samuel Barber – A powerful and emotional piece, “Adagio for Strings” has been used in many significant moments of remembrance, including funerals of public figures and in film scores. It is known for its deep, moving emotional impact.
• “Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy – This piece, which translates to “Light of the Moon,” is a beautiful and serene work that brings a sense of peace and reflection. It’s often chosen for its calming and contemplative qualities.
• “Nimrod” from Enigma Variations by Edward Elgar – This piece is often used in solemn occasions and is known for its deep, introspective mood. It’s a fitting tribute to a life that has had a significant impact on others.

3. Contemporary Songs For Funerals

In recent years, contemporary songs have become increasingly popular at funerals, offering a modern and personalized touch. These songs often reflect the personal tastes, experiences, and relationships of the deceased, making the service more intimate and meaningful. Contemporary music can range from soft, acoustic ballads to more upbeat tracks that celebrate life, rather than focus solely on mourning.

Widely Chosen Contemporary Songs:

• “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole – This soothing rendition offers a message of hope and peace, making it a popular choice for funerals. Its gentle ukulele melody and heartfelt lyrics evoke a sense of tranquility.
• “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton – Written by Clapton after the tragic loss of his son, this song is often chosen for its emotional depth and heartfelt lyrics. It speaks to the pain of loss and the hope of reunion in heaven.
• “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler – This song of gratitude and admiration is perfect for honoring someone who was a source of support and inspiration. It’s often chosen to celebrate the life of a person who has profoundly impacted others.
• “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban – A song that conveys inspiration, strength, and support, making it ideal for celebrating the life of a loved one. Groban’s powerful vocals add to the song’s uplifting message.
• “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen (popular version by Jeff Buckley) – While originally a secular song, “Hallelujah” has been adapted for various meanings, including spiritual and reflective interpretations, making it a versatile choice for funerals.

4. Popular Country Songs

For a more down-to-earth or relatable service, popular and country songs can be fitting choices. These genres often tell stories and evoke emotions that can resonate deeply with attendees, offering a sense of familiarity and comfort. Country songs, in particular, often touch on themes of family, love, and faith, making them a popular choice for funeral services in certain communities.

Popular Selections:

• “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston – This powerful ballad expresses enduring love and devotion, making it a fitting choice for a farewell that honors a deep and lasting connection.
• “Go Rest High on That Mountain” by Vince Gill – A country song that is both moving and reflective, often chosen for its spiritual message of peace and rest in the afterlife.
• “My Way” by Frank Sinatra – This classic song celebrates a life lived on one’s own terms, often chosen for its bold and reflective lyrics. It’s a tribute to individuality and personal legacy.
• “Angels Among Us” by Alabama – A song that speaks to the presence of angels in our lives, often chosen for its comforting message of spiritual guardianship and protection.
• “If Tomorrow Never Comes” by Garth Brooks – A reflective country song that encourages listeners to express their love and appreciation while they still have the chance, making it a poignant choice for a funeral.

5. Songs for Reflection and Remembrance

Songs specifically for reflection and remembrance can help those attending the funeral to meditate on their memories and experiences with the deceased. These pieces can create a moment of pause during the service, allowing for personal reflection and introspection. They are often chosen for their ability to evoke memories and emotions, helping mourners to connect with their own feelings of loss and remembrance.

Suggested Songs for Reflection:

• “Time to Say Goodbye” by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman – A powerful duet that speaks to the finality of parting and the hope of reunion, making it a popular choice for funerals where the themes of farewell and hope are central.
• “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole – A classic song that pays tribute to the lasting impact of a loved one. Its timeless melody and lyrics make it a fitting choice for reflecting on the cherished memories of the deceased.
• “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion – Known as the theme from the movie Titanic, this song has become a symbol of enduring love and remembrance, often chosen to express the idea that the deceased will always remain in the hearts of those who loved them.
• “I Will Remember You” by Sarah McLachlan – A song that speaks to the pain of loss and the importance of keeping memories alive, making it a poignant choice for funerals.
• “Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole – A medley that blends hope and reflection, offering a sense of peace and closure.

6. Gospel and Spiritual Funeral Songs

For those who want to incorporate their faith into the funeral service, gospel and spiritual songs can be a powerful choice. These songs often speak of hope, redemption, and the promise of eternal life, offering comfort and reassurance to those who believe in the afterlife. Gospel music, in particular, is known for its uplifting and inspirational qualities, making it a popular choice for Christian funerals.

Notable Gospel and Spiritual Songs:

• “Amazing Grace” by Aretha Franklin – While this hymn was mentioned earlier, it’s worth noting Aretha Franklin’s gospel version, which adds a soulful and powerful element to the song.
• “His Eye is on the Sparrow” by Mahalia Jackson – A gospel classic that speaks of God’s watchful care, offering comfort and reassurance to those in mourning.
• “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe – A contemporary Christian song that envisions the moment of meeting God in heaven, offering hope and inspiration to those who are grieving.
• “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” by Mahalia Jackson – A soulful plea for God’s guidance and comfort, often chosen for its powerful message of faith and trust in God’s care.
• “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” by The Fisk Jubilee Singers – A spiritual song that speaks of the journey to the afterlife, offering a sense of peace and anticipation of heavenly rest.

7. Instrumental and Ambient Funeral Music

Instrumental and ambient music can create a soothing and contemplative atmosphere during the funeral service. These pieces often lack lyrics, allowing attendees to reflect on their memories and emotions without the influence of specific words. Instrumental music can be particularly effective during moments of reflection, such as during the viewing or as background music during the service.

Recommended Instrumental and Ambient Pieces:

• “Air on the G String” by Johann Sebastian Bach – A serene and elegant piece that brings a sense of calm and tranquility to the service.
• “Moonlight Sonata” by Ludwig van Beethoven – A reflective and introspective piece that can evoke deep emotions, making it a fitting choice for a moment of reflection.
• “Gymnopédie No. 1” by Erik Satie – Known for its gentle and melancholic melody, this piece can create a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere.
• “Spiegel im Spiegel” by Arvo Pärt – An ambient piece that evokes a sense of stillness and introspection, ideal for creating a serene environment during the service.
• “The Lark Ascending” by Ralph Vaughan Williams – A piece that evokes the image of a bird soaring into the sky, symbolizing the soul’s journey to the afterlife.

8. Songs for Celebrating Life

For those who wish to focus on the celebration of life rather than solely on mourning, there are songs that reflect the joy, love, and positive memories shared with the deceased. These songs often have an upbeat or uplifting tone, encouraging attendees to remember the good times and the impact the person had on their lives.

Celebratory Songs:

• “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong – A song that celebrates the beauty of life and the world around us, making it a popular choice for funerals that focus on gratitude and reflection.
• “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley – An upbeat song with a reassuring message of “don’t worry about a thing,” offering comfort and positivity during a difficult time.
• “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey – An anthem of perseverance and hope, often chosen to reflect the positive and enduring spirit of the deceased.
• “Forever Young” by Rod Stewart – A song that speaks to the wish for the deceased to remain eternally young and vibrant in the memories of those who loved them.
• “We’ll Meet Again” by Vera Lynn – A classic song from World War II, offering the comforting message that we will one day be reunited with our loved ones.

150 Examples Of Popular Funeral Songs

Traditional Funeral Hymns

1. Amazing Grace – John Newton (popular version by Judy Collins)
2. The Lord Is My Shepherd (Psalm 23) – Various Artists (popular version by The Choir of King’s College, Cambridge)
3. Abide with Me – Henry Francis Lyte (popular version by Katherine Jenkins)
4. How Great Thou Art – Carl Boberg (popular version by Elvis Presley)
5. Ave Maria – Franz Schubert (popular version by Luciano Pavarotti)
6. Nearer, My God, to Thee – Sarah Flower Adams (popular version by The Mormon Tabernacle Choir)
7. It Is Well with My Soul – Horatio Spafford (popular version by Mahalia Jackson)
8. Rock of Ages – Augustus Toplady (popular version by The Mormon Tabernacle Choir)
9. Be Still, My Soul – Jean Sibelius (popular version by The Mormon Tabernacle Choir)
10. In the Garden – C. Austin Miles (popular version by Elvis Presley)
11. What a Friend We Have in Jesus – Joseph Scriven (popular version by Alan Jackson)
12. Blessed Assurance – Fanny Crosby (popular version by Alan Jackson)
13. Holy, Holy, Holy – Reginald Heber (popular version by The Mormon Tabernacle Choir)
14. Great Is Thy Faithfulness – Thomas Chisholm (popular version by Chris Rice)
15. I Need Thee Every Hour – Annie Hawks (popular version by The Mormon Tabernacle Choir)

Classical Funeral Music

1. Ave Maria – Bach/Gounod (popular version by Andrea Bocelli)
2. Canon in D – Johann Pachelbel (instrumental)
3. Adagio for Strings – Samuel Barber (instrumental)
4. Nimrod – Edward Elgar (instrumental)
5. Pie Jesu – Andrew Lloyd Webber (popular version by Sarah Brightman)
6. Air on the G String – Johann Sebastian Bach (instrumental)
7. Clair de Lune – Claude Debussy (instrumental)
8. Moonlight Sonata – Ludwig van Beethoven (instrumental)
9. Requiem in D Minor – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (instrumental)
10. Largo from Xerxes – George Frideric Handel (instrumental)
11. The Swan – Camille Saint-Saëns (instrumental)
12. Funeral March – Frédéric Chopin (instrumental)
13. Lacrimosa – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (instrumental)
14. Adagio in G Minor – Tomaso Albinoni (instrumental)
15. Pavane – Gabriel Fauré (instrumental)

Contemporary Funeral Music

1. Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
2. Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton
3. Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler
4. You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban
5. Time to Say Goodbye – Andrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman
6. My Heart Will Go On – Celine Dion
7. The Dance – Garth Brooks
8. Angels – Robbie Williams
9. Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion
10. Supermarket Flowers – Ed Sheeran
11. One Sweet Day – Mariah Carey & Boyz II Men
12. See You Again – Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth
13. Hallelujah – Leonard Cohen (popular version by Jeff Buckley)
14. Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers
15. Make You Feel My Love – Adele
16. Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World – Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
17. Jealous of the Angels – Donna Taggart
18. I Will Remember You – Sarah McLachlan
19. Dance with My Father – Luther Vandross
20. Knocking on Heaven’s Door – Bob Dylan
21. If I Die Young – The Band Perry
22. Let It Be – The Beatles
23. My Way – Frank Sinatra
24. Somewhere – Barbra Streisand
25. Heaven – Bryan Adams
26. I’ll Be Missing You – Puff Daddy ft. Faith Evans & 112
27. Hero – Mariah Carey
28. Goodbye My Lover – James Blunt
29. I Can Only Imagine – MercyMe
30. Bridge Over Troubled Water – Simon & Garfunkel

Country Funeral Songs

1. Go Rest High on That Mountain – Vince Gill
2. Holes in the Floor of Heaven – Steve Wariner
3. The Dance – Garth Brooks
4. When I Get Where I’m Going – Brad Paisley ft. Dolly Parton
5. Angels Among Us – Alabama
6. I Hope You Dance – Lee Ann Womack
7. Temporary Home – Carrie Underwood
8. Broken Halos – Chris Stapleton
9. He Stopped Loving Her Today – George Jones
10. If Tomorrow Never Comes – Garth Brooks
11. Just a Closer Walk with Thee – Patsy Cline
12. Remember When – Alan Jackson
13. Sissy’s Song – Alan Jackson
14. Why Me – Kris Kristofferson
15. Drink a Beer – Luke Bryan
16. Angels Flying Too Close to the Ground – Willie Nelson
17. I’m Already There – Lonestar
18. Please Remember Me – Tim McGraw
19. Live Like You Were Dying – Tim McGraw
20. I Believe – Diamond Rio

Popular Funeral Songs

1. Unforgettable – Nat King Cole
2. Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Judy Garland
3. We’ll Meet Again – Vera Lynn
4. Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
5. Let It Be – The Beatles
6. Always on My Mind – Willie Nelson
7. Memory – Barbra Streisand
8. Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles
9. Over the Rainbow – Judy Garland
10. My Way – Elvis Presley
11. Candle in the Wind – Elton John
12. Fields of Gold – Sting
13. Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton
14. Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton
15. Yesterday – The Beatles
16. Goodbye Yellow Brick Road – Elton John
17. Heaven – Bryan Adams
18. Angie – The Rolling Stones
19. I’ll Be Seeing You – Billie Holiday
20. Time to Say Goodbye – Andrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman

Reflection and Remembrance Funeral Songs

1. The Living Years – Mike + The Mechanics
2. Spirit in the Sky – Norman Greenbaum
3. In My Life – The Beatles
4. Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion
5. Who You’d Be Today – Kenny Chesney
6. Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton
7. Fix You – Coldplay
8. Everybody Hurts – R.E.M.
9. Let Her Go – Passenger
10. In the Arms of an Angel – Sarah McLachlan
11. The Rose – Bette Midler
12. I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston
13. Hero – Enrique Iglesias
14. Gone Too Soon – Michael Jackson
15. I’ll Be Missing You – Puff Daddy ft. Faith Evans & 112
16. One More Day – Diamond Rio
17. You Are Not Alone – Michael Jackson
18. Lean on Me – Bill Withers
19. Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler
20. I’ll Stand by You – The Pretenders

Gospel and Spiritual Funeral Songs

1. Take My Hand, Precious Lord – Mahalia Jackson
2. Soon and Very Soon – Andraé Crouch
3. Amazing Grace – Aretha Franklin
4. His Eye Is on the Sparrow – Mahalia Jackson
5. I’ll Fly Away – Alison Krauss & Gillian Welch
6. Peace in the Valley – Elvis Presley
7. Swing Low, Sweet Chariot – Louis Armstrong
8. Going Home – Bill Gaither
9. Precious Memories – Alan Jackson
10. Heaven’s Now My Home – Libby Allen

Inspirational and Hopeful Songs

1. Rise Up – Andra Day
2. You Are the Reason – Calum Scott
3. Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
4. What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
5. I Can Only Imagine – MercyMe
6. Three Little Birds – Bob Marley
7. Keep Holding On – Avril Lavigne
8. Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
9. You’ve Got a Friend – James Taylor
10. Lean on Me – Bill Withers

Timeless and Classic Funeral Songs

1. My Way – Frank Sinatra
2. Bridge Over Troubled Water – Simon & Garfunkel
3. Somewhere – Barbra Streisand
4. Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton
5. Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers
6. Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door – Bob Dylan
7. What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
8. Over the Rainbow – Judy Garland
9. I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston
10. You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban

How to Choose the Right Funeral Songs

Choosing the right funeral songs is a deeply personal and meaningful process. The music you select should honor the life and legacy of your loved one while providing comfort and reflection to those in attendance. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when selecting the perfect funeral songs:

1. Reflect on Deceased’s Preferences

One of the most important factors in choosing funeral songs is to consider what type of music the deceased enjoyed during their life. Did they have a favorite genre, artist, or song? Incorporating music that the person loved can make the service feel more personal and fitting, creating a connection between the music and the individual being remembered. For instance, if the deceased was a fan of classical music, including pieces like “Ave Maria” or “Clair de Lune” might be a meaningful choice. If they loved country music, a song like “Go Rest High on That Mountain” could be particularly appropriate.

2. Consult with Family Members

Involving close family members in the decision-making process can help ensure that the songs chosen resonate with everyone and reflect the collective memories and feelings toward the deceased. Family members might have specific songs in mind that hold special significance, or they might provide insights into the deceased’s musical preferences that you weren’t aware of. Collaborating with family members can also help create a more inclusive and meaningful tribute.

3. Consider the Service’s Tone

The tone of the funeral—whether solemn, celebratory, or a mix of both—should guide your song selection. For a more formal or religious service, traditional hymns or classical music might be appropriate. These types of songs can help create an atmosphere of reverence and reflection. On the other hand, for a celebration of life, contemporary or upbeat songs could be more fitting, reflecting the joyful and positive memories shared with the deceased. The tone of the service should align with the personality and wishes of the deceased, as well as the desires of the family.

4. Lyric Appropriateness

Pay close attention to the lyrics of the songs you choose. Ensure that the words reflect themes of love, remembrance, peace, and hope. It’s important to avoid lyrics that might be too intense, controversial, or unrelated to the occasion. For example, while a song might have been a favorite of the deceased, its lyrics might not be appropriate for a funeral setting if they include themes that don’t align with the tone of the service. It’s always a good idea to review the lyrics in full before making a final decision.

5. Venue Considerations

Consider where the funeral will take place. Some venues, such as churches, might have restrictions on the types of music allowed, particularly when it comes to secular or non-religious songs. It’s important to check with the venue beforehand to ensure that your song choices are appropriate and permitted. Additionally, the acoustics of the venue might influence the type of music that will sound best, so it’s worth considering how the songs will be experienced in the specific space where the service will be held.

6. Creating a Balanced Playlist

When selecting funeral songs, aim to create a balanced playlist that reflects different aspects of the deceased’s life and the emotions of the moment. You might choose a mix of solemn hymns, reflective classical pieces, and more uplifting contemporary songs. This balance can help guide the flow of the service, allowing for moments of deep reflection as well as moments of celebration. Consider the pacing of the service and how the music will complement each part of the ceremony, from the entrance to the final farewell.

7. Personal Tributes

Incorporating personal tributes into the music selection can make the funeral service even more meaningful. This could include choosing a song that was played at significant moments in the deceased’s life, such as their wedding, or a song that they always sang to their children. These personal touches can create a deeper connection between the music and the memories of the person being honored, making the service more intimate and heartfelt.

8. Involving Live Musicians

If possible, consider involving live musicians in the funeral service. Live music can add a powerful and personal element to the ceremony, whether it’s a soloist singing a favorite hymn, a pianist playing a beloved classical piece, or a guitarist performing an acoustic version of a contemporary song. Live performances can be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the family, allowing for a unique and memorable tribute.

9. Considering Cultural and Religious Traditions

It’s important to consider any cultural or religious traditions that might influence the choice of music. Different cultures and religions have specific customs and rituals associated with funerals, and music often plays a significant role in these traditions. For example, in many Christian funerals, hymns and spiritual songs are central to the service, while in other cultures, drumming, chanting, or specific types of instrumental music might be more appropriate. Understanding and respecting these traditions can help ensure that the music chosen aligns with the beliefs and values of the deceased and their family.

10. Allowing for Moments of Silence

While music is a crucial element of a funeral service, it’s also important to allow for moments of silence. These moments provide space for personal reflection, prayer, or meditation, giving attendees the opportunity to connect with their own thoughts and feelings. Silence can be a powerful tool in a funeral service, creating a sense of peace and stillness amidst the emotions of the day. Consider how moments of silence can be incorporated into the flow of the service, complementing the music and enhancing the overall experience.

Conclusion

Choosing the right funeral songs is a deeply personal and meaningful process. The music you select should honor the life and legacy of your loved one while providing comfort and reflection to those in attendance. By carefully considering the categories of songs, the preferences of the deceased, and the tone of the service, you can create a memorable and fitting tribute that resonates with all who attend.

Remember, the best funeral songs are those that not only reflect the individual’s life but also provide solace and connection to everyone present. Whether you opt for traditional hymns, classical compositions, contemporary songs, or a mix of everything, the key is to choose music that feels authentic and true to the person you are honoring. Through thoughtful selection and a deep understanding of the role that music plays in the grieving process, you can create a funeral service that is both meaningful and memorable, leaving a lasting impression on all who gather to say their final goodbyes.

Ultimately, the music you choose will become a lasting part of the memories associated with the service, offering a sense of closure and peace to those who are mourning. By honoring the deceased through music, you are not only celebrating their life but also providing comfort and support to those who continue to carry their memory in their hearts.