20 Pieces of Rock Music To Play At A Funeral

Whether your loved one loved rock music or you have special memories of going to rock concerts together, rock music can be a sentimental way to remember your loved one and the passions they shared when they were alive. Here are 20 of our favourite pieces of rock music for a funeral…

“Knocking on Heaven’s Door” by Guns N’ Roses (Bob Dylan cover):

A poignant song about nearing the end of life and seeking peace.

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“Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton:

It’s a deeply emotional song that reflects on loss and longing for a loved one.

“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd:

A melancholic song about absence and loss, fitting for a funeral.

“November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses:

This epic ballad speaks to the passage of time and the inevitability of change, which can resonate with mourners.

“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin

While it’s an epic rock anthem, its spiritual themes and ethereal sound make it a contemplative choice for a funeral.

“Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley (Leonard Cohen cover)

This hauntingly beautiful song explores themes of love, loss, and spirituality.

“My Immortal” by Evanescence:

A contemporary rock piece that is a ballad about loss and longing, expressing the pain of grief.

“The Show Must Go On” by Queen:

While originally about perseverance in the face of adversity, its powerful message can also apply to coping with loss and moving forward.

“Don’t Fear the Reaper” by Blue Öyster Cult:

Despite its title, this song has a calming melody and contemplative lyrics about mortality.

“Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd:

Its themes of freedom and letting go can resonate with mourners saying goodbye to a loved one.

“Hurt” by Johnny Cash (Nine Inch Nails cover):

Johnny Cash’s rendition of this song is deeply introspective and speaks to the experience of suffering and regret.

“Time of Your Life (Good Riddance)” by Green Day:

While commonly used for graduations, its reflective tone and themes of farewell can also be fitting for a funeral.

“Black” by Pearl Jam:

A song that delves into themes of grief, loss, and memory, offering a somber yet powerful reflection on mortality.

“Every Breath You Take” by The Police:

While often misunderstood as a love song, its haunting melody and lyrics about surveillance can also be interpreted as a reflection on loss and longing.

“With Arms Wide Open” by Creed:

This song, originally written about the anticipation of fatherhood, can also speak to the embrace of the afterlife.

“Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac:

While more folk-rock than pure rock, its introspective lyrics about change and acceptance can offer solace to mourners.

“Far Behind” by Candlebox:

A song about loss and the struggle to move on, expressing feelings of grief and longing.

“Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls:

This emotional ballad reflects on longing and the desire to be understood, making it suitable for a funeral service.

“Fade to Black” by Metallica:

While it’s a heavy metal song, its introspective lyrics about depression and isolation can resonate with mourners.

“When You’re Gone” by Cranberries:

Its lyrics express feelings of loss and longing. The song’s gentle melody and poignant lyrics could offer comfort to mourners and serve as a tribute to the departed

“Nothing Compares To You” by Sinead O Connor:

The song expresses themes of longing, loss, and the incomparable nature of a loved one’s presence. Its emotive melody and heartfelt lyrics can evoke a sense of reflection and remembrance.

“Last Kiss” by Pearl Jam

A beautiful song talking about loss and grief. It talks about the heartbreak of losing the one you love the most and can be a very powerful song for anyone who has lost their life partner.