Top 50 Songs to Play at a Funeral

Music has a unique ability to evoke emotions, capture memories, and provide comfort during difficult times. Selecting the right songs for a funeral is an essential part of honoring the life of a loved one, allowing family and friends to reflect, grieve, and celebrate a life well-lived. Here, we have compiled a list of the top 50 songs to play at a funeral, spanning various genres and sentiments to ensure that you find the perfect music to create a meaningful farewell.

1. “Amazing Grace” – Traditional

A timeless hymn that offers comfort and peace, “Amazing Grace” is a popular choice for funerals across all cultures and faiths.

2. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

This rendition of the classic song brings a sense of hope and serenity, making it a beautiful choice for a funeral service.

3. “Ave Maria” – Franz Schubert

A classical piece that exudes grace and solemnity, “Ave Maria” is a fitting tribute to a loved one.

4. “My Way” – Frank Sinatra

For those who lived life on their own terms, “My Way” is a powerful anthem of individuality and reflection.

5. “Tears in Heaven” – Eric Clapton

Written after the tragic loss of his son, this song by Eric Clapton resonates deeply with those mourning the loss of a loved one.

6. “Hallelujah” – Leonard Cohen

Cohen’s “Hallelujah” is a soulful and poignant song that touches on themes of love, loss, and spirituality.

7. “Wind Beneath My Wings” – Bette Midler

A song of gratitude and remembrance, “Wind Beneath My Wings” honors the impact the deceased had on others.

8. “What a Wonderful World” – Louis Armstrong

This classic celebrates the beauty of life and serves as a comforting reminder during a time of grief.

9. “Unchained Melody” – The Righteous Brothers

A deeply emotional song, “Unchained Melody” is often chosen to reflect eternal love and devotion.

10. “The Prayer” – Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli

A powerful duet that conveys hope, protection, and peace, “The Prayer” is a heartfelt addition to any funeral service.

11. “You Raise Me Up” – Josh Groban

A song that speaks to strength and support, “You Raise Me Up” is perfect for commemorating a loved one who was a source of inspiration.

12. “In the Arms of an Angel” – Sarah McLachlan

This hauntingly beautiful song provides solace and peace, making it a popular choice for funerals.

13. “I Will Always Love You” – Whitney Houston

A powerful ballad about love and loss, Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” remains a timeless choice for funerals.

14. “Canon in D” – Johann Pachelbel

This classical piece brings a sense of calm and reflection, ideal for a solemn ceremony.

15. “Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

A medley that blends hope and positivity, perfect for celebrating a life well-lived.

16. “Time to Say Goodbye” – Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman

A poignant and moving duet that marks a farewell with grace and dignity.

17. “Somewhere” – Barbra Streisand

This classic ballad speaks to finding peace and solace in a better place.

18. “Let It Be” – The Beatles

“Let It Be” offers comfort with its message of acceptance and faith.

19. “You’ll Never Walk Alone” – Gerry & The Pacemakers

A powerful anthem of solidarity and hope, this song is perfect for a funeral service.

20. “Bridge Over Troubled Water” – Simon & Garfunkel

A song about comfort and support, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” resonates deeply with those in mourning.

21. “Knocking on Heaven’s Door” – Bob Dylan

A reflective and soulful song that touches on themes of life, death, and the afterlife.

22. “Fields of Gold” – Eva Cassidy

Eva Cassidy’s cover of “Fields of Gold” is a beautiful and serene song that reflects on the beauty of life.

23. “Angels” – Robbie Williams

A modern classic, “Angels” by Robbie Williams is a heartfelt song about protection and love.

24. “Memory” – Barbra Streisand

A song about reflection and remembering the past, “Memory” is a touching choice for a funeral.

25. “Heaven” – Bryan Adams

This rock ballad provides a sense of comfort and assurance of a loved one’s place in heaven.

26. “Morning Has Broken” – Cat Stevens

A song of renewal and peace, “Morning Has Broken” is an uplifting choice for a funeral service.

28. “Stand by Me” – Ben E. King

An enduring song of support and loyalty, “Stand by Me” is perfect for commemorating a loved one who was always there.

29. “Gone Too Soon” – Michael Jackson

A tribute to those taken too soon, this song by Michael Jackson resonates with many grieving a significant loss.

30. “Circle of Life” – Elton John

From the soundtrack of “The Lion King,” this song reflects the cycle of life and is a fitting tribute to a well-lived life.

31. “Hero” – Mariah Carey

A powerful song about inner strength and resilience, “Hero” honors those who have been a guiding force in others’ lives.

32. “We’ll Meet Again” – Vera Lynn

A classic World War II song that offers hope of a reunion in the afterlife.

33. “The Rose” – Bette Midler

A song about love and resilience, “The Rose” is a popular choice for its touching lyrics.

34. “Fire and Rain” – James Taylor

A reflective song about loss and the passage of time, “Fire and Rain” resonates with those mourning a loved one.

35. “Lean on Me” – Bill Withers

A song of support and solidarity, “Lean on Me” is perfect for a funeral service celebrating a supportive loved one.

36. “One Sweet Day” – Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men

A song that touches on love, loss, and the hope of reunion, “One Sweet Day” is a comforting choice.

37. “I Hope You Dance” – Lee Ann Womack

A song about living life to the fullest, “I Hope You Dance” is an uplifting tribute

38. “Sunrise, Sunset” – Fiddler on the Roof Cast

A song that reflects on the passage of time and the stages of life, perfect for a reflective funeral service.

39. “Because You Loved Me” – Celine Dion

A tribute to someone who was a source of strength and inspiration, “Because You Loved Me” is a moving choice.

40. “To Where You Are” – Josh Groban

A song that speaks to the connection between the living and those who have passed on.

41. “How Do I Live” – LeAnn Rimes

A ballad about enduring love and the impact of a lost loved one.

42. “Go Rest High on That Mountain” – Vince Gill

A song about finding peace and solace in the afterlife, perfect for a country-themed service.

43. “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles

An optimistic and uplifting song that can bring comfort during a time of loss.

44. “Tears Dry on Their Own” – Amy Winehouse

A song about resilience and moving forward, perfect for a celebration of life.

45. “Slipping Through My Fingers” – ABBA

A reflective song about the passage of time and the preciousness of life.

46. “You Are Not Alone” – Michael Jackson

A comforting song about love, support, and the reassurance that loved ones are always with us.

47. “Hurt” – Johnny Cash

A deeply emotional song that resonates with themes of regret and reflection.

48. “Smile” – Nat King Cole

A classic song that encourages finding hope and solace despite the pain of loss.

49. “Make You Feel My Love” – Adele

A song about unconditional love, perfect for remembering a cherished loved one.

50. “Goodbye My Lover” – James Blunt

A poignant and heartfelt ballad about saying goodbye to a loved one.

FAQs About Funeral Songs

Q1: How do I choose the right funeral songs?

Choosing the right funeral songs depends on the preferences of the deceased and their loved ones. Consider the person’s favorite music, the mood you want to set, and the message you want to convey.

Q2: Can I mix different genres in a funeral playlist?

Yes, mixing genres can create a more personalized and reflective playlist that captures different aspects of the deceased’s personality and life.

Q3: Is it appropriate to play upbeat songs at a funeral?

Upbeat songs can be appropriate, especially if they reflect the personality of the deceased or if the funeral is meant to be a celebration of life rather than a somber event.

Q4: Can I include religious songs even if the service isn’t in a church?

Yes, religious songs can be included in any funeral service, whether it takes place in a church or another location, as long as they reflect the beliefs and wishes of the deceased or their family.

Q5: How many songs should I include in the funeral playlist?

The number of songs can vary, but typically 5-10 songs are enough for a standard funeral service. Additional songs can be played during a wake, reception, or other memorial events.

For more guidance on planning a meaningful funeral, you can visit LifeMemory.com.