Music plays a vital role in funeral services, providing comfort, evoking memories, and honouring the deceased’s life and legacy. Choosing the right music can be a deeply personal and meaningful task, reflecting the personality, beliefs, and preferences of your loved one. Here are a few that may resonate with you for your loved ones service:
Frank Sinatra – My Way
A powerful and fitting choice for a funeral song, celebrating a life lived with authenticity and independence. The lyrics, “I did it my way,” resonate with the theme of individuality, highlighting the deceased’s unique journey and the courage to live on their own terms. Sinatra’s iconic and emotive delivery adds a layer of dignity and pride, creating a reflective and respectful atmosphere. This song pays homage to the strength and character of the departed, offering a sense of closure and honouring their legacy with a tribute to their personal story and the path they carved out for themselves.
Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman – Time to Say Goodbye
An exquisite and poignant choice for a funeral song, capturing the bittersweet essence of farewell with its powerful operatic vocals and soaring melody. The lyrics, “Time to say goodbye,” eloquently express the sorrow of parting and the beauty of cherished memories. The song’s grandeur and emotional depth provide a sense of closure and reverence, creating a moving tribute that honours the life of the departed. Its blend of sorrow and hope offers solace to mourners, encapsulating the profound emotions of saying goodbye while celebrating the enduring impact of the loved one’s presence in their lives.
Tina Turner – Simply the Best
A powerful and uplifting choice for a funeral song, celebrating the life and legacy of the departed with its bold and affirming lyrics. By highlighting the exceptional qualities and cherished memories of the loved one, “Simply the Best” offers a heartfelt and spirited farewell, reminding everyone of the remarkable individual they were privileged to know.
Norman Greenbaum – Spirit in the Sky
A lovely choice for a funeral song due to its uplifting and hopeful message about the afterlife. The song’s powerful lyrics and spirited melody convey a sense of peace and assurance, celebrating the belief in a positive transition to a better place.
Frank Sinatra – After You’ve Gone
A poignant choice for a funeral song due to its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song beautifully captures the sense of loss and longing that accompanies saying goodbye to a loved one, while also reflecting on the enduring impact they’ve had on our lives.
Somewhere Over the Rainbow
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” is a timeless classic that resonates with people of all ages. Its familiar melody and heartfelt lyrics provide comfort and a sense of connection, even for those who may not have a personal attachment to the song.
Ed Sheeran – Supermarket Flowers
An emotional and heartfelt choice for a funeral song, capturing the raw emotions of loss and the bittersweet memories of a loved one. The song’s tender lyrics, reflecting on the simple yet profound moments shared with someone dear, resonate deeply with those mourning.
Gerry and the Pacemakers – You’ll Never Walk Alone
An uplifting song that lyrics offer a message of hope, resilience, and companionship during times of grief. The song’s comforting refrain, “Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart, and you’ll never walk alone,” reassures mourners that despite the pain of loss, they are not alone and encourages them to face the future with courage and solidarity.
Robbie Williams – Angels
A fitting funeral song due to its comforting and serene lyrics that speak of protection, love, and the enduring presence of a guardian angel. The song’s poignant refrain, “And through it all, she offers me protection, a lot of love and affection,” evokes a sense of being watched over and cared for, providing solace to those grieving.
Sam Smith – Lay Me Down
A deeply emotional and fitting choice for a funeral song, as it poignantly expresses longing, love, and the heartache of loss. The soulful lyrics, “Can I lay by your side, next to you, you,” capture the desire for closeness and the pain of separation, resonating deeply with those mourning a loved one. Its raw emotion and sincerity make it a touching tribute, offering solace and a space for reflection during the farewell to a cherished individual.
The Waterboys / Ellie Goulding – How Long Will I Love You
An exceptionally touching funeral song due to its heartfelt expression of eternal love and devotion. The lyrics, “How long will I love you? As long as stars are above you,” convey a timeless and unwavering commitment that resonates deeply with those mourning a loved one. The gentle melody and tender vocals create a serene and reflective atmosphere, offering comfort and a profound sense of connection. This song serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring love and cherished memories that remain, providing solace and a heartfelt tribute to the departed.
Queen – Who Wants To Live Forever
A profoundly moving funeral song, offering a contemplative reflection on the fleeting nature of life. The lyrics, “Who wants to live forever, when love must die?” poignantly capture the inevitable reality of mortality and the pain of losing loved ones, while also celebrating the beauty and intensity of the moments we share. Its melancholic yet majestic tone provides a fitting tribute, helping mourners find solace and meaning amidst their grief, honouring the memory of the departed with grace and depth.
Queen – Another One Bites The Dust
With its upbeat tempo and assertive lyrics, this song may seem an unconventional choice for a funeral song. Its driving bass line and energetic delivery could provide a sense of resilience and defiance, celebrating the deceased’s vibrant personality and indomitable spirit. However, its title and lyrics, which bluntly address the inevitability of death, might be perceived as irreverent or insensitive in the solemn context of a funeral. Despite this, for some, it could serve as a bold, unapologetic acknowledgment of life’s end, reflecting the deceased’s unique character and the belief in celebrating life even in the face of death.
Rachel Platten – Fight Song
An inspiring choice for a funeral song because of its powerful message of resilience, strength, and determination in the face of adversity. The lyrics, “This is my fight song, take back my life song,” resonate with the idea of honouring the deceased’s spirit and their battles in life, while encouraging mourners to find their own inner strength to move forward.
David Bowie – Starman
An intriguing and heartfelt funeral song, especially for those who celebrate individuality and the cosmic mystery of life. The song’s evocative lyrics, “There’s a starman waiting in the sky,” suggest a transcendent journey and a connection to something greater beyond this world. Its uplifting melody and Bowie’s iconic, ethereal voice create an atmosphere of both wonder and solace. Choosing “Starman” for a funeral can honour the unique spirit of the deceased, celebrating their life with a sense of adventure and the hope that they have embarked on a new, celestial journey.
Coldplay – Fix You
An emotional and fitting choice for a funeral song, resonating with its themes of love, support, and healing. The song offers solace and comfort to those grieving, acknowledging the pain of loss while gently suggesting the possibility of finding peace. “Fix You” serves as a beautiful tribute, honouring the enduring bonds of love and the strength to carry on.
Vera Lynn – We’ll Meet Again
A timeless choice for a funeral song, evoking a sense of hope and reunion amidst the sorrow of parting. Known for its uplifting message during World War II, the song’s lyrics convey a comforting promise of seeing loved ones again, offering solace to those left behind. Lynn’s warm and reassuring voice, paired with the song’s heartfelt melody, creates a sense of enduring connection and faith in the future. “We’ll Meet Again” serves as a beautiful and reassuring farewell, celebrating the enduring bonds of love that transcend time and separation.
Bette Midler – Wind Beneath My Wings
A deeply moving choice for a funeral song, capturing the essence of gratitude and admiration for a loved one who provided unwavering support and inspiration. The song conveys a profound sense of appreciation for the person who was a guiding force, lifting others with their strength and kindness. This poignant tribute resonates with mourners, honouring the cherished memories and lasting impact of the deceased. “Wind Beneath My Wings” beautifully expresses the love and respect felt for someone who was truly the wind beneath our wings.
The Verve – Bitter Sweet Symphony
A profound and evocative choice for a funeral song, perfectly capturing the complexities of life and the emotions of saying goodbye. The song reflects on the struggles and triumphs that define a person’s journey. The orchestral arrangement adds a sense of grandeur and depth, making it a powerful tribute to a loved one’s life. “Bitter Sweet Symphony” resonates with the bittersweet nature of farewells, celebrating the beauty and pain of our shared human experience, and offering a moment of reflection and solace for those in mourning.
Simon & Garfunkel – Bridge Over Troubled Water
A comforting and heartfelt choice for a funeral song, offering a message of support and solace during times of grief. The song’s soothing melody and profound lyrics speak to the enduring love and strength provided by the deceased, acting as a metaphorical bridge over the difficult waters of loss.
John Denver – Take Me Home, Country Roads
A heartfelt and nostalgic choice for a funeral song, evoking a sense of peace and longing for a return to a beloved place. The song makes a fitting tribute for someone who cherished the simplicity and tranquillity of rural life. Denver’s warm and comforting voice brings a sense of calm and reflection, offering solace to those grieving. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” beautifully honours a loved one’s journey back to their spiritual home, enveloped in the warmth of cherished memories.
Tom Jones – Green Green Grass of Home
A poignant and fitting choice for a funeral song, reflecting themes of homecoming and nostalgia. The song evokes a deep sense of longing and comfort, as they tell the story of returning to familiar, cherished surroundings. It beautifully captures the bittersweet emotions of coming home, which can resonate deeply with those mourning the loss of a loved one. “Green Green Grass of Home” serves as a touching tribute, honouring the deceased’s connection to their roots and the comforting idea of finding peace and rest in a place they held dear.
Keala Settle – This Is Me
An empowering choice for a funeral song, celebrating individuality and self-acceptance. The song conveys a message of resilience and pride, making it a fitting tribute to someone who lived authentically and embraced their true self. “This Is Me” honours the uniqueness of the deceased, highlighting their courage and strength. This uplifting anthem can provide comfort to mourners, reminding them of the remarkable person they are celebrating and encouraging them to carry forward the same spirit of bravery and self-love.
The Beatles – Yesterday
A deeply moving and reflective choice for a funeral song, capturing the poignant emotions of loss and longing. The song speaks to the sorrow of losing someone dear and the wistful memories of better days. “Yesterday” resonates with mourners by expressing the universal experience of grief and the enduring impact of cherished moments. Its timeless beauty and heartfelt lyrics make it a fitting tribute, offering comfort and solace while honouring the memory of the loved one who has passed away.
Lewis Capaldi – Someone You Loved
A profoundly emotional and fitting choice for a funeral song, encapsulating the deep sense of loss and heartache that accompanies saying goodbye to a loved one. The song’s soulful delivery conveys the overwhelming pain of missing someone who was a significant part of one’s life. It resonates with its heartfelt depiction of love, loss, and longing, offering a powerful tribute to the enduring impact of the deceased. This moving ballad provides comfort and solace to mourners, honouring the profound connection and cherished memories shared with the departed.