Choosing the best funeral songs for a loved one’s funeral can be daunting. Music touches the soul in times of joy and sorrow, and it is a great responsibility to be in charge of selecting the right songs to pay tribute to a loved one’s life. Each person is unique, and each family has its own ideas of what music would be appropriate to play in honor of the person who passed.
There was a time when choosing funeral songs meant going through a list provided by your funeral director. A church organist would play the songs, often hymns, that everyone sang during the service. As the desire to personalize memorial services grew, so did the choice of music.
These days, there are very few limits. You could use various musical genres in your funeral song selection or even include musical instruments and vocals in live performances. In this article, we’ll look at why music is so important at a funeral, the different styles of music you could consider, and what you should know about choosing funeral songs. We’ll also explore some of the most popular funeral songs for different types of people.
Why Music is Important at a Funeral Service
Mourning relatives often overlook music during funeral planning. They may be overwrought with sadness leaving it as an afterthought. Some consider music background noise simply because a funeral should have something playing. When it’s left up to the funeral director to provide a last-minute suggestion, an opportunity for a highly personalized service risks becoming generic and irrelevant to the person who died. It is simply not a good substitute for a thoroughly-considered musical selection.
Perhaps there was a particular song the person loved or a type of music that resonated with them. Some families will create a funeral playlist, or they may prefer a live performance to pay tribute to the deceased.
Whatever you decide, well-planned music can add immense meaning to the funeral service. The right funeral song or playlist, chosen with care, will serve as a constant, loving reminder of the legacy the dearly departed left behind.
Music at Funerals: What to Consider
Choosing music for a memorial service is not just about putting together a collection of the most popular funeral songs or arranging for a live musical performance. Some service venues will have rules around music choices, so respect is essential. Here are some of the main things you should consider when choosing funeral music:
#1. Is a live musical performance a good option?
Live music options for funeral services can range from a beautifully rendered version of “Amazing Grace” by a dear friend to a string quartet providing gentle background music. If there is a friend or family member who would like to perform a special song for the deceased, it could be a memorable performance and fitting tribute to the departed’s life.
Trained musicians can quickly adapt some of the best funeral songs for a live performance. Whether you want somebody with a beautiful voice to perform a classic song like “Wind Beneath my Wings” or the deceased loved one’s favorite country song, live music can add a lovely personal touch to a memorial service.
Please note that some venues may have limitations to musical instruments, as mentioned in number 3. below.
#2. Copyright and funeral songs
Although you can play almost any music at a funeral, it’s essential to ensure that copyright restrictions don’t apply. Most funeral homes and crematoriums have an approved digital music library to choose from. If you have a particular song or musical composition you’d like to include in the service, speak to the funeral director.
If you have a playlist, ensure that it’s playable on the audio equipment available where the service takes place and that the venue approves of it. If you choose to have live music, talk to the musician or musicians to find out what they require to perform. Talk to your funeral director about these requirements, for example, outlets to use for equipment.
#3. Matters of faith to consider when choosing funeral music
If the service is in a church or religious venue, you should clear the list of funeral songs with clergy members leading the event. Although you are not bound by the funeral music the clergy prefers, it’s best to seek approval for the final selections.
Some churches have strict rules regarding music that may be played. Some churches won’t allow musical instruments at services. If you feel that it’s important to have musical instruments as part of the funeral music repertoire, moving the service to a different facility may be necessary.
How to Choose Funeral Songs
Believe it or not, funeral songs don’t have to be sad. It’s up to you and your loved ones to decide what is appropriate for the occasion. Whether you want to focus on a single iconic funeral song or play a selection of popular funeral songs, choosing the music is a highly personal choice. The key is to focus on the deceased loved one and what the person would have wanted.
It wouldn’t make sense to play the most beautiful Sarah Brightman song at the funeral of someone who was a Green Day fan. However, unless the departed specifically requested a particular type of music, it’s best to consider those who will attend the funeral.
You could choose a funeral song from any genre of music. As long as the song reminds you of the deceased loved one, it’s a good song to choose. If you’re still unsure, these guidelines may help to make your selection:
#1. Think about the person you are honoring
Did the departed have a favorite song or specific type of music they loved? It doesn’t have to be traditional funeral music at all. Today, it’s more important to choose a great song that has significance to the person being remembered.
It could be anything from an upbeat Michael Jackson song recording to a vocalist doing an acapella rendition of “How Great Thou Art.” If you think about what would put a smile on your loved one’s face if they were still here, you’re on the right track.
#2. What tone would you like to set?
Any death will involve sadness, but that doesn’t have to be the prevailing tone at the funeral. Traditionalists may prefer a more somber tone when saying their final goodbyes to a loved one. Others may like to look at a memorial service as a celebration of life and prefer a light and uplifting tone. A more tranquil and reflective tone is also an option.
Every song talks to people who hear it in some way and sets a tone in the environment it’s played. Before making your final selection, listen to the songs you are considering with this in mind. Music will set the tone, so choosing funeral songs that match your preference is important.
#3. Ask for suggestions
Every friend and family member had a different relationship with the deceased that came with different experiences. You may know the person’s basic music taste, but there could be more to it. Talk to family members and friends who knew the person well. They may have suggestions that you wouldn’t have thought of. Likewise, you could have input they don’t know.
#4. Look at the departed’s music library
If you have access to the deceased’s streaming account or playlists, spend some time looking at their music choices. Perhaps they still had a CD collection or an MP3 player. Whichever method they used to enjoy music will give you an excellent insight into what type of music was most meaningful to them.
#5. Carefully consider lyrics
If your playlist contains songs with lyrics, take time to explore each song carefully. Listen to every song all the way through or read the lyrics. Sometimes song lyrics can be surprising and inappropriate for a funeral service.
How to Know if You’ve Picked the Best Funeral Songs
There are no wrong or right in choosing funeral songs. Even unconventional choices can be appropriate if you keep the person in mind. The important thing to remember is that the music should honor the deceased – that’s what funeral songs are about.
You’ll know that you’ve picked the right funeral songs or funeral music if you ask yourself these five questions about each song:
#1. Does it honor my loved one?
The main purpose of funeral music is to honor the dearly departed. If a song reminds you and friends and family members of the deceased, it would be celebrating their memory. If the music would make them feel good if they were still alive, it’s an honorable choice.
#2. Does the music set the correct tone for the service?
Once you’ve decided whether you want to set a serious or lighter tone, listen to your music selection carefully to determine if it’s appropriate. You could mix music genres – as long as the ceremony flows well.
#3. Does the music make a positive impact on mourners?
The mourners in attendance must be comfortable. They will be there to reflect on the deceased’s life, and the music will affect their experience and memory of the service. Choosing music that reflects the deceased’s life will help those attending the funeral remember the loved one and the special times they shared with them.
#4. Do the songs offer comfort to the bereaved?
Music affects our emotional well-being. It can provide solace and comfort and help give voice to emotions. The music you choose should provide a level of comfort to those attending the service.
#5. Will the songs be meaningful to the deceased?
The songs you play will make the service you plan more personal. Those who gather to pay tribute to the deceased will each have their own meaningful memories of the departed loved one. Many memorable moments will have an accompanying soundtrack, which makes some of the best funeral songs you could choose.
Ideas for Funeral Songs
Some services start with one iconic song that is emotionally resonant with the deceased and then move to a more tranquil playlist. Others prefer to stick to popular funeral songs that are safer for a smooth service.
Choosing the songs may be overwhelming; there is just so much music out there that you may not remember your deceased loved one’s top picks. Grief has a way of interfering with our memories and thought processes. To help you find the perfect funeral songs for your loved one’s service, we’ve compiled a few short lists of potentially appropriate songs that may trigger a memory of what your loved one enjoyed.
Popular funeral songs
Some of the most popular funeral songs have stood the test of time. Most of these songs are relatively safe choices and have a high chance of being emotionally resonant.
Amazing Grace – Various Versions
Amazing Grace is a deeply beautiful song many singers have performed over time. There are versions by John Newton, Carrie Underwood, Elvis Presley, Andrea Bocelli, Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion, Ray Charles, and more!
The message is of peace and salvation after death and touches on the afterlife. Because of the positive message, Amazing Grace is a song that can be uplifting. It’s also an excellent choice for a vocalist to perform at the service.
Time To Say Goodbye – Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman
Performed by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman, this selfless song will have a massive emotional impact on mourners. It brings home what they are there to do – say goodbye to a loved one.
You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban
This powerful song by Josh Groban has been used countless times at funerals. The deeply touching lyrics make You Raise Me Up uplifting for anyone attending a service for someone who has recently departed.
Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton
Eric Clapton wrote and performed this song when his son died, making it one of the most heartfelt songs you could play at a funeral. Although it is a melancholy tune, it delivers a message of hope, “There are no tears in heaven.”
Hallelujah – Jeff Buckley
Jeff Buckley was not the first to perform this stunning song. Initially written by Leonard Cohen, John Cale, and Rufus Wainwright also performed it before Jeff Buckley performed one of the most popular versions of it.
Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler
Bette Midler beautifully performs this song which delivers a stunning message of support. It highlights the impact the dearly departed may have made on those left behind.
Candle In The Wind – Elton John
Bernie Taupin wrote this song, and Elton John performed it at Princess Diana’s funeral in 1997. It is one of the most iconic songs that Elton John is known for. Candle in the Wind is a great funeral song – it is fit for a Princess.
One More Day – Diamond Rio
This country song by Diamond Rio is a popular funeral song because it speaks of something everyone wishes for: just one more day with their loved one.
Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Judy Garland and Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
Although Judy Garland originally sang this song in the 1930s, the more modern version by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole is popular. His soothing voice and the beautiful lyrics comfort mourners, making this song ideal for a funeral.
Other popular songs for funerals you may want to consider are:
- My Heart Will Go On – Celine Dion
- There You’ll Be – Faith Hill
- Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door – Bob Dylan
- In the Arms of an Angel -Sarah McLachlan
- Never Forget You – Mariah Carey
- Remember When – Alan Jackson
- Goodbye’s (the Saddest Word) – Celine Dion
- How Great Thou Art – Carrie Underwood
- I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston
Best funeral songs for dad
No matter what your dad was like, many suitable songs honor his memory. Consider choosing an iconic song from this list as a fitting tribute to your father.
- My Way – Frank Sinatra
- Stairway to Heaven – Led Zeppelin
- Dance With My Father – Luther Vandross
- You Should Be Here – Cole Swindell
- Satisfied Mind – Johnny Cash
- Thank You For Being My Dad – Jon Barker
- Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd
- You Can Close Your Eyes – James Taylor
- Imagine – John Lennon
Best funeral songs for mom
Losing a mother is devastating, and it may be challenging to focus on choosing an appropriate song for the person who brought you into the world and cared for you. If you’re unsure of what to pick, here are some ideas of songs you could consider:
- Bye Bye – Mariah Carey
- A Song For Momma – Boyz II Men
- You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban
- Goodbye’s the Saddest Word – Celine Dion
- Supermarket Flowers – Ed Sheeran
- Sissy’s Song – Alan Jackson
- There You’ll Be – Faith Hill
- In the Arms of an Angel – Sarah Mclachlan
Funeral songs for grandma
When you are tasked with choosing the best funeral songs for your gran, you could select golden oldies that she knew and loved or more contemporary songs that remind you of her or special times with her. The important thing to remember is that the music will honor her memory. Here are some ideas of appropriate songs for your grandmother’s funeral:
- Smile – Nat King Cole
- Nan’s Song – Robbie Williams
- Grandma’s Song – Gail Davies
- Amazing Grace – John Newton
- Grandma’s Hands – Bill Withers
- How Can I Help You Say Goodbye – Patty Loveless
- Grandma’s Feather Bed – John Denver
Funeral song ideas for grandad
When choosing funeral songs for your grandpa, think about his favorite music or songs that remind you and your loved ones of him. If he loved music, it could be worth going through his record collection to learn more about his taste in music. Here are some ideas you could consider:
- Heaven Was Needing a Hero – Jo Dee Messina
- We’ll Meet Again – Vera Lynn
- Grandpa – Justin Moore
- What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
- You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban
- Freebird – Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Go Rest High on That Mountain – Vince Gill
Uplifting funeral songs
Depending on your culture, a funeral can be as serious and somber or as light and uplifting as you make it. A funeral service is a ceremony to honor the deceased – but it’s also to celebrate the life they led. If you want to create a more uplifting tone, here are some funeral songs you could consider:
- Three Little Birds – Bob Marley and the Wailers
- See You Again – Wiz Khalifa
- Somewhere Over The Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
- Beautiful Day – U2
- You are the Sunshine of My Life – Stevie Wonder
- What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
- Spirit in the Sky – Norman Greenbaum
- Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye
- Don’t Worry, Be Happy – Bobby McFerrin
- You are Not Alone – Michael Jackson
- I Hope You Dance – Lee Ann Womack
Contemporary funeral songs
A funeral song can be an iconic classic by artists like Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman, a golden oldie by musicians like Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole, or a more modern track by contemporary artists like Ed Sheeran and Adele. If you would prefer your loved one’s service to contain modern funeral songs, here are some options:
- Halo – Beyonce
- One Sweet Day – Mariah Carey And Boyz II Men
- Wonderwall – Oasis
- Someone like you – Adele
- Wherever You Will Go – The Calling
- I’ll Be Missing You – Puff Daddy & Faith Evans
- When September Ends – Green Day
- Someone You Loved – Lewis Capaldi
- Lay Me Down – Sam Smith
Country Funeral Songs
If your family is country folk or enjoys country and western music, you’ll be happy to know that several excellent country songs are appropriate for funerals. Here are some examples:
- Broken Halos – Chris Stapleton
- When I Get Where I’m Going – Brad Paisley
- One More Day – Diamond Rio
- How Great Thou Art – Carrie Underwood
- Drink a Beer – Luke Bryan
- Go Rest High on That Mountain – Vince Gill
- Country Roads Take Me Home – John Denver
- Don’t Take The Girl – Tim McGraw
The Best Songs for Funerals
Whether you play sweet and sentimental songs like “I’ll Be Seeing You” by Billie Holiday or rock the venue with Billy Joel’s “Only The Good Die Young,” it’s up to you. A beautiful song doesn’t have to be sad; there are even happy funeral songs to choose from.
You could play a song by Michael Jackson or Alan Jackson, Frank Sinatra or Stevie Wonder. As long as the song captures the person who passed away in some way, it’s a good song for a funeral service. The best funeral songs are always the ones that pay the most touching tribute to your loved one.