30+ Favorite Funeral Song Of All Time
Music has the wonderful capacity to bring peace and connect us to our deepest feelings in times of sorrow and recollection. Join us on a moving journey as we explore the world of funeral songs and reveal the 30+ Favorite Funeral Songs of All Time. This compilation pays tribute to the melodies that have touched countless hearts and brought peace during times of loss, from soul-stirring classics to modern ballads. Let us investigate the everlasting power of music to commemorate, heal, and celebrate people we love.
I Will Always Love You – Dolly Parton & Whitney Houston
“I Will Always Love You” is a charming and emotional song written and originally performed by American country singer Dolly Parton in 1974. It became considerably more well-known, though, when Whitney Houston recorded it for the soundtrack of the 1992 film “The Bodyguard.” The song’s passionate lyrics represent a deep and enduring love that lasts long after a relationship has ended, making it a popular choice for funerals and memorials.
I Will Always Love You Dolly Parton & Whitney Houston
The song’s soaring melody and heartbreaking message resonate with grieving listeners whether delivered by Parton or Houston. “I Will Always Love You” reassures grieving people that their love and memories will live forever.
Candle In The Wind – Elton John
The heartfelt song “Candle in the Wind” was written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, and it was included on Elton John’s album “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” in 1973. This song, which is an homage to Marilyn Monroe, discusses the fleeting nature of stardom as well as the challenges that come along with it. The song is frequently performed at funerals due to the fact that its lyrics are so painful and its music is so mournful.
Candle In The Wind Elton John
Whether in its original or revised version, “Candle in the Wind” offers comfort and solace to those who have lost a loved one, telling them that their memory will live on long after they have died.
See You Again – Wiz Khalifa Ft. Charlie Puth
Charlie Puth appears on the poignant “See You Again” song by Wiz Khalifa. The song from the 2015 “Furious 7” soundtrack pays tribute to Paul Walker, who passed away in a car accident in 2013. The song’s depressing lyrics about loss, friendship, and love strike a chord with listeners who have recently lost a loved one. It is a funeral song because rap lines and an intense chorus reveal its potent message of hope and remembering.
See You Again Wiz Khalifa Ft. Charlie Puth
“See You Again” not only respects Paul Walker’s life and the bond between the “Fast & Furious” family, but it also soothes others who have lost loved ones by offering hope of a future reunion.
Go Rest High On That Mountain – Vince Gill
The stirring country gospel song “Go Rest High on That Mountain” by Vince Gill. The song, which can be found on Gill’s 1995 album “When Love Finds You,” was influenced by both the terrible passing of Gill’s older brother Bob and country music legend Keith Whitley. The phrases convey affection, sorrow, and the wish to meet up with loved ones again in a better place. Bereaved persons are comforted by the song’s soothing sound and encouraging lyrics.
Go Rest High On That Mountain Vince Gill
As a funeral song, “Go Rest High on That Mountain” is a moving homage to the memory of the departed, recalling the struggles they had while they were here on Earth.
One Sweet Day – Mariah Carey And Boyz II Men
The song “One Sweet Day” was included on Mariah Carey’s fifth studio album, titled “Daydream,” which was published in 1995. Both Carey and Boyz II Men had experienced personal setbacks when they wrote the song. The words convey both the anguish of parting ways with a loved one and the hope that you will see that person again. Because of its breathtaking vocal harmonies and profound message of love, suffering, and reunion,
One Sweet Day Mariah Carey And Boyz II Men
“One Sweet Day” has become an enduring classic, capable of touching the emotions of all those who have suffered the loss of a loved one. The funeral song provides comfort and healing to those who are in mourning.
Supermarket Flowers – Ed Sheeran
“Supermarket Flowers” is Ed Sheeran’s 2017 sorrowful ballad from his third studio album, ” (Divide). Sheeran penned the song as a tribute to his grandma, expressing the sentiments of loss. The lyrics are emotive, expressing basic, everyday things that remind him of his grandma and her strength and support throughout his life. With its soft tune and intimate story, “Supermarket Flowers” resonates to listeners who have lost a loved one, especially a mother or grandmother.
Supermarket Flowers Ed Sheeran
As a funeral song, it serves to console and unite others who have experienced a similar loss by serving as a terrible reminder of the love and memories shared with the deceased.
Imagine – John Lennon
Former Beatles member John Lennon was responsible for penning and performing “Imagine.””Imagine” was the title tune of his second solo album, released in 1971, and it rapidly became an international anthem for peace, love, and harmony. The song’s lyrics inspire listeners to seek harmony and understanding, as well as to imagine a future free of physical borders, organized religion, and material possessions. The song’s sorrowful lyrics and passionate music have moved a large number of mourners.
Imagine John Lennon
“Imagine” serves as a subtle reminder of the prospect of a more compassionate, connected world, instilling hope and bringing solace to those in need of comfort during terrible times.
Knocking On Heaven’s Door – Bob Dylan & Guns N’ Roses
Bob Dylan wrote and sang “Knocking on Heaven’s Door” for the soundtrack of the 1973 film “Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid.” The heartfelt lyrics show a person nearing the end of their life, facing the unknown and preparing to enter the afterlife. As a funeral song, “Knocking on Heaven’s Door” connects with those who have experienced loss, giving a strong and emotive musical picture of the fragility of life and the need for peace in the hereafter.
Knocking On Heaven’s Door Bob Dylan & Guns N’ Roses
Mourners can find comfort in either Dylan’s original song or Guns N’ Roses’ cover of it; the version they choose to listen to most frequently reflects both their own musical choices and the departed person’s musical tastes.
Bridge Over Troubled Water – Simon & Garfunkel
The melancholy ballad “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” which was created by Paul Simon, was released by Simon & Garfunkel in the year 1970. During trying circumstances, the song invites listeners to lean on those they care about most. The ability to “bridge over troubled water” is symbolic of the power required to triumph over adversity. The song “Bridge Over Troubled Water” provides consolation to mourners and serves as a reminder that they are not alone in their suffering.
Bridge Over Troubled Water Simon & Garfunkel
As a result of the profound feelings conveyed by the song and the stunning harmonies performed by Simon and Garfunkel, it has evolved into an enduring classic that fans continue to cherish.
You’ll Never Walk Alone – Gerry & The Pacemakers
The stirring ballad “You’ll Never Walk Alone” was written by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein for the 1945 Broadway musical “Carousel.” The emotional words of the song give a message of hope, encouragement, and support to people going through a difficult time. “You’ll Never Walk Alone” serves as a comforting reminder that loved ones are never truly alone and can always rely on the support of family and friends to help them get through even the most difficult times.
You’ll Never Walk Alone Gerry & The Pacemakers
The song’s uplifting melody and powerful choral arrangement have elevated it to the status of a well-known anthem for hope and perseverance, urging listeners to find strength and courage in the face of hardship.
Let It Be – The Beatles
The Beatles’ “Let It Be” is a somber and contemplative song that was included on their final studio album and was published in 1970. The song’s lyrics exhort listeners to accept and give themselves over to life’s inherent flow, especially in the face of difficulty and uncertainty. Its soothing and consoling tune has made it a popular choice for funerals and memorial ceremonies, providing solace and peace to those who are grieving.
Let It Be The Beatles
Generations of listeners have been touched by the song’s straightforward yet profound message, which serves as a reminder to find inner tranquility and faith in life’s course, particularly in the face of sorrow.
You Are Not Alone – Michael Jackson
In 1995, Michael Jackson included the song “You Are Not Alone” on the album “HIStory: Past, Present, and Future, Book I.” The listener is reassured by the song that they are not isolated in the world and that even when they are going through the worst of it, other people are thinking about them. since of its calming sound, many people choose to play it at memorial ceremonies and funerals since it brings consolation to those who are bereaving.
You Are Not Alone Michael Jackson
The emotive vocals of Michael Jackson and the melancholic background of the song together transmit a powerful proclamation of empathy and compassion, so establishing a tone of kindness and understanding in the listener.
Fields Of Gold – Sting & Eva Cassidy
Sting, a British artist, penned and performed “Fields of Gold,” a lovely and melancholy song released in 1993 as part of his album “Ten Summoner’s Tales.” Sting also performs the song. The phrases elicit longing and melancholy, conjuring up images of a tranquil and idyllic setting, complete with golden meadows and boundless skies. Eva Cassidy, an American singer, is best known for her rendition of the song, which gained popularity after the singer’s untimely death in 1996.
Fields Of Gold Sting & Eva Cassidy
Because of the song’s peaceful melody and tragic lyrics, it has become a favorite choice for memorial services and funerals, where it gives comfort and calm to those who are grieving.
Stairway To Heaven – Led Zeppelin
“Stairway to Heaven” was released in 1971 by the legendary English rock band Led Zeppelin as part of their untitled fourth studio album. The song’s lyrics depict a magical journey through a surreal environment of colorful imagery and symbolism, concluding in a climactic and cheerful conclusion. Its strong and dynamic melody has made it a popular choice for funerals and memorial gatherings, instilling awe and reverence in those in mourning.
Stairway To Heaven Led Zeppelin
The song’s themes of transcendence and spiritual development have resonated with generations of listeners, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of music and the human spirit.
I’ll Be Missing You – Puff Daddy
Puff Daddy released “I’ll Be Missing You” in 1997, a poignant dedication to Christopher Wallace, better known by his stage moniker The Notorious B.I.G. Because of its beautiful and touching tune, it is usually performed during funerals and memorial ceremonies to soothe those who are in mourning. Because of the song’s great impact on audiences all across the world, it has become an enduring memorial to ancestors and loved ones who have died. As a result of this,
I’ll Be Missing You Puff Daddy
The song “I’ll Be Missing You” has gained widespread popularity and acclaim, and it continues to encourage and comfort people who have suffered the loss of a friend or family member.
Last Kiss – Pearl Jam
“Last Kiss” was written and sung by Wayne Cochran in 1961, but it was Pearl Jam’s 1998 cover version that brought the song to the notice of a new generation. The song’s lyrics describe a deadly car accident that kills a young couple, as well as the protagonist’s anguish and sorrow. The song’s somber tune and moving lyrics have made it a popular option for funerals and memorial services, providing closure and catharsis to those in grieving.
Last Kiss Pearl Jam
Pearl Jam’s rendition of the song adds a layer of emotional depth to the original composition with haunting vocals and subtle instrumentation, creating a fascinating and memorable musical experience.
Ave Maria
The hymn “Ave Maria” is one of the most well-known and beloved works of sacred music, and it has been set to music by a number of composers over the years. The hymn’s most renowned musical arrangement is attributed to Franz Schubert, an Austrian pianist. Schubert utilized a composition written in 1825. The “Hail Mary” prayer is a traditional devotional gesture in Catholicism that honors the Blessed Virgin Mary. The hymn’s lyrics are based on the request.
Ave Maria
The song’s calming melody and soaring voices provide consolation and solace to the mourning who are in need of emotional and spiritual support during difficult times, making it a popular option for funerals and memorial gatherings.
You Can Close Your Eyes – James Taylor
In spite of the fact that Taylor has referred to “You Can Close Your Eyes” as a “secular hymn,” many music experts refer to the tune as a “gorgeous lullaby.” Despite the fact that Taylor herself has referred to the song in this manner, this remains the case. The song has had a tremendous amount of success all over the world, and a major part of that success can be attributed to Taylor’s dark and “vulnerable” vocal delivery.
You Can Close Your Eyes – James Taylor
Whatever the case may be, the lyrics of the song feature a dual personality; on the one hand, they are charming, but on the other hand, they are frightening.
Tears In Heaven – Eric Clapton
“Tears in Heaven” was composed by Eric Clapton and Will Jennings as a tribute to Clapton’s son Connor, who died unexpectedly when he was four years old. Clapton claimed that he was able and effective at healing himself through the use of music. “I almost subconsciously used music for myself as a healing agent, and lo and behold, it worked… I have gotten a lot of happiness and healing from music,” he said.
Tears In Heaven – Eric Clapton
The song received three Grammy Award nominations, including Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, Song of the Year, and Record of the Year, and was listed #362 on Rolling Stone’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
Hallelujah – Jeff Buckley
Despite being recorded by Jeff Buckley in 1993, Leonard Cohen’s rendition of a song did not receive an official release until 2007. In contrast to Cohen’s original performance, which Time magazine called a “dirge,” Buckley’s remake was commended as “exquisitely sung” by its writers. Buckley, on the other hand, imbued the song with a range of emotions by using his voice to communicate both beauty and pain in the song’s delivery.
Hallelujah – Jeff Buckley
On the list that Rolling Stone compiled of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” the cover version that Buckley sang and sang landed at position number 259 overall.
Somewhere Over The Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwo’Ole
Famous Hawaiian musician Israel Kamakawiwo’ole performed a stunning rendition of the legendary song “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” He made an absolutely incredible medley by blending “Over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World” in such a way that there was no room for error. He executed everything so precisely that there was no room for error. This historic concert will be forever archived in the National Recording Registry in 2021 due to its cultural, historical, and aesthetic value.
Somewhere Over The Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwo’Ole
During the course of the deliberation that ultimately resulted in the selection of this particular alternative, the significance of the performance was one of the factors that was taken into consideration and played a part.
Feels Like Home – Chantal Kreviazuk
Despite the fact that Randy Newman wrote the song for a musical, Chantal Kreviazuk’s 1999 version was the most successful with audiences. In the same year, the song “But I’m alright because I have you here with me, And I can almost see through the dark there is light” was included on the soundtrack for the television series “Dawson’s Creek.” The song’s lyrics are powerful: “And I can almost see through the darkness there is light.”
Feels Like Home – Chantal Kreviazuk
The song is moving not just because it offers a message that is simple yet profound, but also because Kreviazuk does a fantastic job of delivering that message.
Asleep – The Smiths
The Smiths, an English band, were the ones who came up with the idea for the song “Asleep,” which was a lullaby-like tune that was only performed once in the year 1985. Despite the fact that the song has not been played live very frequently over the years, the calming words of the song have managed to strike a chord with fans over the course of so many years.
Asleep – The Smiths
“Don’t feel bad for me, I want you to know, Deep in the cell of my heart, I will feel so glad to go,” is a soothing and painful remark that expresses a sense of calm and acceptance.
Hero – Mariah Carey
“Hero” by Mariah Carey is a strong ballad that was released in 1993 as part of her album “Music Box.” The song’s lyrics communicate a message of strength, resilience, and courage, encouraging listeners to believe in themselves and their potential. Because of its upbeat tempo and encouraging message, it has become a popular choice for funerals and memorial services, where it brings peace and inspiration to those who have lost a loved one.
Hero Mariah Carey
The forceful vocals of Carey and the anthemic orchestration of the song create an aura of empowerment and positivity, honoring the human spirit’s ability to triumph over adversity and persevere in the face of challenges.
Satisfied Mind – Jeff Buckley
Jeff Buckley covered the song “Satisfied Mind,” which was penned by Joe “Red” Hayes and Jack Rhodes. In an interview, Hayes stated that his mother served as the song’s inspiration and that all of the lyrics were things he had overheard her say. Before settling on a title, he gave the song a lot of thought. When his father-in-law inquired about the richest man in the world, Hayes said that exchange served as the inspiration for the title.
Satisfied Mind – Jeff Buckley
His father-in-law corrected him after he had mentioned a few names and went on to say that the richest guy was the one who had a mentality that was at peace with itself.
What A Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
A classic and upbeat song, “What a Wonderful World” is performed by the legendary jazz singer Louis Armstrong. The song’s lyrics, which were published in 1967, express appreciation for the beauty of the land and a message of hope and optimism in the face of sorrow. Its straightforward yet impactful message has made it a popular choice for funerals and memorial services, giving consolation and certainty to those who are grieving.
What A Wonderful World Louis Armstrong
The tranquil melody of the song, along with Armstrong’s silky voice, evokes a state of mind that is conducive to thankfulness and peaceful contemplation, paying tribute to the majesty of life and the unwavering power of love.
Blower’s Daughter – Damien Rice
The music of Damien Rice is renowned for being melancholy. The song “Blower’s Daughter” from his 2003 album “O” won the “Shortlist Prize for Artistic Achievement in Music.” This award honors outstanding recording work on CDs with fewer than 500,000 copies sold. The Coldplay album “O” was released in 2015. According to Donte Kirby of That Music Mag, the album “O” “delves deeply into the melancholy that typically accompanies romantic relationships.”
Blower’s Daughter – Damien Rice
He postulated that persons suffering through heartbreak or other sorts of emotional distress would find the album to have a particularly meaningful value for them at this time in their lives.
Halo (Acoustic) – Beyonce
The song “Halo,” written and performed by the band Halo, was initially made available to the general public in 2008 as an ode to an unrequited love that was never returned. “Halo” was originally made available to the general public in 2008 as a tribute to an unrequited love that was never returned. This song was written by the band Halo and released in 2008. Halo is in charge of both the song’s composition and its distribution.
Halo (Acoustic) – Beyonce
Beyonce’s powerful voice brought the song’s lyrics, which included “Everywhere I’m looking now, I’m surrounded by your embrace,” to life. “Baby, I can see your halo,” she says. “You know you’re my saving grace.” I love saying that to you.
Only For You – Heartless Bastards
Everyone who listens to the song “Only For You” will undoubtedly be captured and charmed by the song’s hypnotic and alluring acoustic melody. I haven’t felt this passionately about another person in a long time, and the fact that I do about you has aroused my interest in learning more about you and what makes me feel this way about you in the first place. It’s been so long that I can’t even remember the last time it happened.
Only For You – Heartless Bastards
“It’s been a while since I’ve felt this strongly about someone,” the song’s emotional lyrics say, expressing a desire to learn more about the subject. I’d love to know you better!
I’ll Be Seeing You – Billie Holiday
The melancholy rendition of “I’ll Be Seeing You” by Billie Holiday that was featured in the movie “The Notebook” was primarily responsible for bringing the song to the forefront of today’s popular culture and putting Billie Holiday back into the spotlight. On the other hand, the significance of the song is not limited to the realm of cinema; in 2019, it was utilized as the closing message that was broadcast to the Mars rover Opportunity.
I’ll Be Seeing You – Billie Holiday
The song’s nostalgic lyrics, written for the Broadway musical “Right This Way” six years before Billie Holiday recorded it in 1944, still impact audiences. Holiday published the song in 1944.
Follow The Sun – Xavier Rudd
Xavier Rudd, an Australian singer-songwriter, is well-known for the depth of subject matter that he examines in his music. Humanity and spirituality are two of the issues he examines. Rudd was born in Australia. One of his most remarkable songs in this vein is “Follow the Sun,” which emphasizes on the natural circle and cycle of life, particularly during times when people join together. This is one of his more exceptional songs in this genre, and it ranks high.
Follow The Sun Xavier Rudd
Rudd is a band that is well-known for providing music that assists its listeners in developing a stronger connection to the natural world that is present in their immediate vicinity.
Everywhere – Michelle Branch
The following lines from the pop/rock song “Everywhere,” which was published in 2001, explain a sense of comfort and belonging brought on by the presence of a loved one: “Because you’re everywhere to me, And when I close my eyes, it’s you I see. You’re everything I know, That makes me believe, I’m not alone. “Because you’re everywhere to me, And when I close my eyes, it’s you I see.
Everywhere – Michelle Branch
“Because you’re everywhere to me, and when I close my eyes, it’s only you I see.”Ca You are all I know and who I am, and when I finally take a breath, it is you that I breathe.
Highway To Hell – ACDC
AC/DC’s song “Highway to Hell” was placed number 258 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” The song was first made available to the general audience in 1980. This song makes a casual allusion to the emotionally and physically exhausting lifestyle of constantly being on the road, defined as moving from one location to another, and it explores how this may cause one to move around a lot.
Highway To Hell – ACDC
“Highway to Hell” received this distinction from the Australian Performing Rights Association in 2009 for being the “Most Played Australian Work Overseas.” This prestigious award was awarded upon the song by the organisation.
Dropkick Me Jesus – Bobby Bare
Dropkick me, Jesus, through the goalposts of life, and over the end neither left nor right, straight into the heart of them righteous uprights, dropkick me, Jesus, through the goalposts of life.” “Dropkick me, Jesus, through the goalposts of life.” “Jesus, just dropkick me through the goalposts of life,” the man prayed. The man pleaded, “Jesus, just dropkick me through the goalposts of life.” The man believed that Jesus could answer his prayer.
Dropkick Me Jesus – Bobby Bare
These lines from Bobby Bare’s song “Dropkick Me, Jesus” demonstrate a readiness to be exploited by God for the purpose of achieving his goals; they come from the song “Dropkick Me, Jesus.”
Roll Me Up And Smoke Me When I Die – Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson, who is well-known for his dependence on marijuana, published his song “Roll Me Up and Some Me When I Die” on April 20, 2012, which is now recognized as a holiday honoring the consumption of cannabis. Due to the fact that it is common knowledge that Willie Nelson is hooked to marijuana, the revelation of this truth should not come as a surprise. Snoop Dogg has additionally contributed some additional vocal abilities to the track.
Roll Me Up And Smoke Me When I Die Willie Nelson
Nelson’s contribution to the unveiling ceremony for his statue in Austin, Texas, which took place on the same day, was a performance of the song. The ceremony took place on the same day.
Keg On My Coffin – The Push Stars
The Push Stars’ song “Keg On My Coffin” is a great example of how a person may still choose to laugh in spite of being presented with the reality of death. This is something that can be seen in the lyrics of the song. There are other lyrics in the song that encourage close friends and family members to do the same, such as “Put the keg on my coffin, And think of me every so often.”
Keg On My Coffin – The Push Stars
The lyrics of the song go on to urge that one ought to have fun and appreciate life by taking part in a “losers’ day parade” and consuming it “like a river.”
Wherever You Will Go – The Calling
Aaron Kamin’s composition “Wherever You Will Go,” which he wrote in 2001 for The Calling, was motivated by a grandmother’s friend who had passed away and ended a 50-year marriage. When Kamin attended the funeral, she was struck by how challenging it must be for the surviving spouse to come to terms with the untimely passing of a beloved companion. He could picture the man wanting to see his wife or to be certain she was secure.
Wherever You Will Go – The Calling
He reasoned that the other person must be going through something that was comparable to what he was going through himself. This emotion served as the impetus for the creation of the song, which was written in its entirety.
Prop Me Up Beside The Jukebox (If I Die) – Joe Diffie
The song’s narrator asserts that he is unconcerned about his own death and that he plans to continue living his life after death, even though he will no longer be physically there. Furthermore, he maintains that he will spend his life in the same way when he dies. He asks to be buried near the jukebox, where his loved ones may have found him in the past. He is confident that they will locate him here.
Prop Me Up Beside The Jukebox (If I Die) – Joe Diffie
Because he considers this location to be the one that is most conducive to his needs, he is of the opinion that he should utilize the time that he has left here.
The Dance – Garth Brooks
Garth Brooks wrote and performed “The Dance” as a country tune. It was first released as a single in 1990, taken from his album of the same name. This beautiful ballad reflects on love, grief, the beauty of life, and the bittersweet parts of living. Brooks sings about the agony of having to say goodbye to someone he cared about, as well as the priceless experiences and cherished memories he got from that connection.
The Dance Garth Brooks
In other words, the song is about the positive outcomes that came about in one’s life as a consequence of the negative experiences that occurred in that person’s life.
Spirit In The Sky – Norman Greenbaum
Norman Greenbaum, a Jewish musician who wrote the iconic song “Spirit in the Sky,” created an unusual fusion of gospel allusions to Jesus. He had no experience with gospel music, but was moved to write the song after watching Porter Wagoner perform on television. Greenbaum asserts that it took him 15 minutes to write the lyrics. The song was ranked 333 on Rolling Stone’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
Spirit In The Sky – Norman Greenbaum
Greenbaum also shared an amusing tale about how well-liked the song is, saying, “I’ve gotten letters from funeral directors telling me that it’s their second-most-requested song to play at memorial services, next to ‘Danny Boy.'”