Finding the Perfect Songs for a Funeral: A Guide to Meaningful Music

Music holds a universal power, transcending words to express emotions and connect us deeply. At funerals and memorial services, music plays a crucial role in honoring a life, offering comfort to grieving hearts, and creating a space for remembrance. Choosing the right songs for a funeral is a deeply personal process, and this guide is designed to help you navigate the options and select music that truly resonates.

This curated list of funeral songs and music aims to provide solace and inspiration as you assemble a meaningful funeral playlist. Whether you are planning a service for a loved one or pre-planning your own arrangements, understanding the impact of music and having a diverse selection to choose from can be incredibly helpful.

It’s important to remember that musical taste is subjective and varies greatly across cultures and personal experiences. This list serves as a starting point, and we encourage you to consider songs that held special significance for the deceased or reflect their personality and values.

Traditional Funeral Songs: Time-Honored Hymns and Classics

Traditional funeral songs often provide a sense of familiarity and comfort, drawing upon shared cultural and religious backgrounds. These selections have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with those seeking solace in music during times of grief.

Here are some well-loved traditional songs often chosen for funerals:

1. Amazing Grace – Traditional: A timeless hymn offering hope and redemption.

2. Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler: A heartfelt tribute to someone supportive and inspiring.

3. His Eye is on the Sparrow – Mahalia Jackson: A gospel classic conveying faith and divine care.

4. My Heart Will Go On – Celine Dion: A powerful ballad about enduring love and memory.

5. Precious Lord, Take My Hand – Mahalia Jackson: A comforting plea for guidance and support.

6. You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban: An uplifting song about strength and encouragement.

7. I’ll Fly Away – Albert E. Brumley: A gospel hymn about the promise of heavenly peace.

8. The Rose – Bette Midler: A song about hope, love, and resilience in the face of adversity.

9. As – Stevie Wonder: A soulful expression of lasting love and devotion.

10. Angels – Robbie Williams: A contemporary classic depicting angelic presence and comfort.

11. Going Up Yonder – Walter Hawkins: A gospel song celebrating ascension to heaven.

12. Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers: A poignant ballad about longing and eternal love.

13. Oh Happy Day – Edwin Hawkins Singers: A joyful gospel song about overcoming sorrow and finding happiness.

14. Candle in the Wind – Elton John: A reflective ballad about a life lived and remembered.

15. Total Praise – Richard Smallwood: A powerful gospel anthem of gratitude and worship.

16. Time to Say Goodbye – Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman: A soaring operatic crossover about farewell and lasting memories.

17. Swing Low, Sweet Chariot – Traditional: A spiritual about hope and liberation.

18. Bridge Over Troubled Water – Simon & Garfunkel: A comforting song about support and unwavering friendship.

19. Lean on Me – Bill Withers: An anthem of solidarity and offering support during difficult times.

20. Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton: A deeply personal and moving song about grief and loss.

21. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell: An upbeat soul song about unwavering love and commitment.

22. Ave Maria – Franz Schubert: A classic and reverent piece of sacred music.

23. You Are Not Alone – Michael Jackson: A comforting pop ballad assuring presence and support.

24. Hallelujah – Jeff Buckley: A deeply emotional and spiritual song of praise and reflection.

25. I’ll Be There – The Jackson 5: A promise of unwavering support and love.

26. I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston: A powerful ballad about enduring love and remembrance.

27. Victory is Mine – Dorothy Norwood: A gospel song celebrating triumph and overcoming adversity.

28. Always Look on the Bright Side of Life – Monty Python: A humorous yet comforting song about maintaining optimism.

29. Soon and Very Soon – Andraé Crouch: A gospel song anticipating the second coming of Christ.

30. Danny Boy – Traditional: A poignant Irish ballad about farewell and remembrance.

31. Order My Steps – GMWA Women of Worship: A gospel song seeking divine guidance and direction.

32. The Prayer – Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli: A duet expressing hope, faith, and divine intervention.

33. Take Me to the King – Tamela Mann: A gospel song of surrender and devotion to God.

34. When I Survey the Wondrous Cross – Traditional: A hymn reflecting on sacrifice and redemption.

35. I Need You to Survive – Hezekiah Walker and The Love Fellowship Choir: A gospel song emphasizing the importance of community and support.

36. In the Arms of an Angel – Sarah McLachlan: A gentle ballad about comfort, loss, and finding peace.

37. We Fall Down – Donnie McClurkin: A gospel song about humility, repentance, and grace.

38. What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong: A hopeful and optimistic song celebrating the beauty of life.

39. Stand – Donnie McClurkin: A gospel anthem about resilience, faith, and taking a stand.

40. Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles: An uplifting and hopeful song about brighter days ahead.

41. We Shall Overcome – Traditional: An anthem of hope, unity, and perseverance.

42. I’ll Be Missing You – Puff Daddy and Faith Evans: A hip-hop tribute to loss and remembrance.

43. Lift Every Voice and Sing – James Weldon Johnson: Often referred to as the Black national anthem, a song of hope and resilience.

44. Nearer My God to Thee – Traditional: A hymn expressing a desire for closeness to God.

45. I Am Not Forgotten – Israel Houghton: A contemporary Christian song about divine remembrance and love.

46. How Great Thou Art – Traditional: A powerful hymn praising God’s majesty and creation.

47. You’ll Never Walk Alone – Mahalia Jackson: An anthem of support, hope, and overcoming adversity.

48. The Sound of Silence – Simon & Garfunkel: A reflective song about isolation, communication, and seeking connection.

49. He Has His Hands On You – Marvin Sapp: A gospel song assuring divine protection and care.

50. Auld Lang Syne – Traditional: A Scottish song about friendship, remembrance, and the passage of time.

51. Bridge Over Troubled Water – Aretha Franklin: A soulful rendition of a classic comforting song.

52. Over the Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole: A ukulele rendition of a classic song about hope and dreams.

53. Morning Has Broken – Cat Stevens: A gentle and peaceful song celebrating new beginnings and beauty.

54. A Time for Us – Nino Rota: The theme from Romeo and Juliet, a romantic and melancholic instrumental piece.

55. Let It Be – The Beatles: A comforting ballad about acceptance, peace, and finding solace in difficult times.

56. Broken Halos – Chris Stapleton: A country song about loss, grief, and the beauty of imperfect lives.

57. Never Would Have Made It – Marvin Sapp: A gospel song of gratitude and acknowledging divine help.

58. Don’t Cry for Me Argentina – Julie Covington: A powerful and emotional song about farewell and remembrance.

59. Stairway to Heaven – Led Zeppelin: An epic rock ballad often interpreted as a journey to the afterlife.

60. Old Rugged Cross – Traditional: A hymn focusing on the sacrifice and redemption of Christ.

61. Hold On – Yolanda Adams: A gospel song about perseverance, faith, and inner strength.

62. The Way We Were – Barbra Streisand: A nostalgic ballad about memories and past love.

63. You’ll Never Walk Alone – Gerry & The Pacemakers: Another popular version of this anthem of support.

64. His Strength is Perfect – Cece Winans: A contemporary Christian song about relying on God’s strength.

65. He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother – The Hollies: A song about burden-sharing, love, and brotherhood.

66. We’ll Meet Again – Vera Lynn: A classic wartime song of hope, reunion, and enduring love.

67. Keep On Movin’ – Soul II Soul: An upbeat soul song about resilience, progress, and moving forward.

68. Love Me Tender – Elvis Presley: A gentle and tender ballad expressing deep affection and love.

69. Oh How He Loves You and Me – Edwin Hawkins Singers: A gospel song emphasizing God’s unconditional love.

70. God Bless America – Irving Berlin: A patriotic song expressing love and devotion to country.

71. Memory – Barbra Streisand: From the musical “Cats,” a poignant song about longing for the past.

72. Be Grateful – Walter Hawkins: A gospel song encouraging gratitude and appreciation for blessings.

73. Angels Among Us – Alabama: A country song about the presence of angels in everyday life.

74. Amazing Grace – Aretha Franklin: A soulful and powerful rendition of the classic hymn.

75. My Way – Frank Sinatra: A song about living life on one’s own terms and with integrity.

76. Stand By Me – Ben E. King: An enduring classic about loyalty, friendship, and unwavering support.

77. Hold On – Mighty Clouds of Joy: An energetic gospel song about perseverance and faith.

78. I Smile – Kirk Franklin: A contemporary gospel song about finding joy and hope even in hardship.

79. Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley: A romantic ballad about surrendering to love.

80. The Dance – Garth Brooks: A country song reflecting on life, love, and embracing experiences.

81. You Are My Friend – Patti LaBelle: A soulful song about the strength and comfort of friendship.

82. When the Saints Go Marching In – Traditional: A lively spiritual about the joy of joining the saints in heaven.

83. On Eagle’s Wings – Michael Joncas: A contemporary Christian hymn about divine protection and guidance.

84. Angel – Sarah McLachlan: Another gentle ballad about angels, comfort, and remembrance.

85. Bittersweet Symphony – The Verve: An orchestral rock song often associated with reflection and life’s journey.

86. Ave Maria – Andrea Bocelli: Another beautiful rendition of this classic sacred piece.

87. The Lord is My Shepherd – Traditional: Psalm 23 set to music, a comforting expression of faith and trust.

88. The Long and Winding Road – The Beatles: A reflective ballad about life’s journey and its uncertainties.

89. There You’ll Be – Faith Hill: A ballad about lasting love and remembrance beyond physical presence.

90. Into the West – Annie Lennox: From “The Lord of the Rings,” a hauntingly beautiful song about journeying to the afterlife.

91. Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door – Bob Dylan: A poignant song about mortality and approaching the end of life.

92. I Will Remember You – Sarah McLachlan: A gentle ballad about cherishing memories and lasting connections.

93. You Are the Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler: Another popular version of this tribute song.

94. I’m Already There – Lonestar: A country song about being present in spirit even when physically absent.

95. When You Believe – Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey: A powerful duet about faith, miracles, and hope.

96. Fields of Gold – Sting: A gentle and poetic song about love, memory, and cherishing moments.

97. He Stopped Loving Her Today – George Jones: A classic country song about enduring, unrequited love.

98. If I Die Young – The Band Perry: A poignant country song about a life cut short and lasting impact.

99. Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel) – Billy Joel: A tender and comforting lullaby, suitable for remembrance.

100. Always On My Mind – Ane Brun: A soulful and heartfelt song about regret and unspoken love.

This extensive list of traditional funeral songs offers a wide spectrum of emotions and themes, suitable for diverse preferences and tributes.

Contemporary Funeral Songs: Modern Selections for Remembrance

While traditional songs provide comfort through familiarity, contemporary songs can offer a more personal and modern expression of grief and remembrance. These selections often reflect individual tastes and can resonate deeply with younger generations or those seeking a less conventional approach to funeral music.

Here are some contemporary songs that have become increasingly popular for funerals:

1. Dancing in the Sky – Beverly Ann: A poignant song imagining a loved one dancing in heaven.

2. Home – Aron Wright: A comforting song about finding peace and belonging in the afterlife.

3. Living Legend – Club Danger: An upbeat song celebrating a life well-lived and impactful.

4. Be Still – The Fray: A gentle song offering comfort and encouraging inner peace during grief.

5. I Shall Believe – Sheryl Crow: A song about faith, hope, and believing in the power of love.

6. To Build a Home – The Cinematic Orchestra, Patrick Watson: An emotional and atmospheric piece about life, family, and legacy.

7. Supermarket Flowers – Ed Sheeran: A tender and personal song about grief and remembering a loved one.

8. Future Days (Acoustic) – Eddie Vedder: A reflective and melancholic song about memories and longing.

9. Heart – Rainbow Kitten Surprise: A folk-rock song that can be interpreted as expressing deep emotions.

10. See You Again – Wiz Khalifa, Charlie Puth: A popular song about remembrance and the promise of reunion.

11. See You Again – Beth: Another song with the same title, offering a different style and emotional tone.

12. These Are Days – 10,000 Maniacs: A nostalgic song about cherishing moments and memories.

13. Wonderwall – Zella Day: A cover of the Oasis classic, offering a sense of hope and wonder.

14. Lay Me Down – Sam Smith: A soulful ballad about longing for a loved one and seeking peace.

15. I Will Always Return – Bryan Adams: A song about enduring love and the promise of returning in spirit.

16. The Story – Brandi Carlile: A powerful and narrative-driven song about life’s journey and experiences.

17. Send Me On My Way – Rusted Root: An upbeat and joyful song that can celebrate a life’s journey and transition.

18. When We Were Young – Adele: A nostalgic ballad reflecting on past times and cherished youth.

19. Amazing Grace (Chains Are Gone) – Pentatonix: An a cappella rendition of the hymn with a modern twist.

20. Do You Remember – Jack Johnson: A gentle and reflective song about memories and shared experiences.

21. In Christ Alone – Christina Grimmie: A contemporary Christian song declaring faith and hope in Christ.

22. When I Get Where I’m Going – Brad Paisley, Dolly Parton: A country duet imagining the joys of reaching heaven.

23. I Will Follow You Into the Dark – Death Cab for Cutie: An intimate and emotional song about devotion and facing the unknown together.

24. Proof of Your Love – King & Country: A contemporary Christian song affirming God’s love and presence.

25. Home – Edith Whiskers: A soulful and comforting song about finding home and peace.

26. My Best Friend – Tim McGraw: A country song celebrating the bond of friendship and love.

27. Work Song – Hozier: A soulful and powerful song that can be interpreted in various emotional contexts.

28. Biscuits – Kacey Musgraves: A country song about life’s simple pleasures and down-to-earth values.

29. Home – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros: An upbeat and joyful song about belonging and finding home.

30. Waves – Imagine Dragons: A powerful and emotional rock song that can represent life’s ups and downs.

31. I Lived – OneRepublic: An uplifting pop song celebrating a life lived to the fullest.

32. 7 Years Old – Lukas Graham: A reflective song about life stages, memories, and growing up.

33. Excavate – Macklemore, Saint Claire: A song about digging deep within oneself and finding strength.

34. Gonna Fly Now – Bill Conti: The theme from “Rocky,” an inspirational and triumphant instrumental piece.

35. Solsbury Hill – Peter Gabriel: An upbeat and optimistic song about personal liberation and change.

36. Unforgettable – Nat King Cole: A timeless classic expressing lasting love and remembrance.

37. Yet – Nathan Morris: A soulful ballad about enduring love and unwavering commitment.

This collection of contemporary funeral songs offers diverse genres and emotional expressions, allowing for personalized tributes that resonate with individual preferences.

Choosing the Right Songs: Personalization and Meaning

Selecting songs for a funeral is a deeply personal and meaningful task. Consider these factors when making your choices:

• Reflect the Deceased’s Personality: Choose songs that reflect the loved one’s taste in music, hobbies, values, and life experiences. Did they have a favorite genre, artist, or song?
• Consider the Tone of the Service: Do you envision a somber and reflective atmosphere, or a more celebratory remembrance of life? Music can help set the tone.
• Religious or Spiritual Beliefs: If the deceased had strong religious beliefs, hymns or gospel songs might be appropriate. Secular songs can also be meaningful if they align with their values.
• Meaningful Lyrics: Pay attention to the lyrics and message of the songs. Do they convey comfort, hope, love, remembrance, or other relevant emotions?
• Family Input: Involve close family members in the song selection process to ensure the music resonates with everyone and honors the deceased appropriately.

Music is a powerful tool for healing and remembrance. By carefully selecting songs for a funeral, you can create a meaningful and memorable tribute that honors the life of your loved one and provides comfort to those who are grieving.

Note: Funeral homes and funeral service businesses should ensure they have the necessary music performance licenses to play copyrighted music.

If you have further song suggestions that would be valuable additions to this resource, please feel free to share them. We are committed to providing helpful and comprehensive information for families and funeral professionals.