Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy, and choosing music to accompany that final farewell can feel overwhelming. Music has the incredible power to evoke emotions, and selecting the right song can provide comfort, solace, and even celebrate a life well-lived. While there's no one-size-fits-all approach, exploring a diverse range of music can help you find the perfect tribute. Whether you seek a heartfelt ballad like "Wind Beneath My Wings" a soaring anthem of hope like "You Raise Me Up" or a moving reflection on life's journey, there's a song out there that will resonate deeply with your memories and emotions. This curated list offers a range of musical styles, from soulful singers to iconic bands, each contributing a unique perspective on life, loss, and the enduring power of love. Beyond the familiar favorites, you'll discover lesser-known gems that can offer a fresh and poignant way to express your grief and celebrate the life of someone you cherish. We invite you to explore this musical journey, to find the song that speaks to your heart and helps you honor the memory of your loved one in a meaningful way.
| Song | Artist | Album | Release | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. See You Again |
Wiz Khalifa Charlie Puth | Super Hits | 2015 | 6B+ |
| 2. Wind Beneath My Wings | Bette Midler | Beaches (Original Soundtrack Recording) | 1988 | 23M+ |
| 3. You Raise Me Up | Josh Groban | Closer | 2003 | 175M+ |
| 4. Dance With My Father | Luther Vandross | Dance With My Father | 2003 | 160M+ |
| 5. Hallelujah | Jeff Buckley | Grace | 1994 | 225M+ |
| 6. I'll Be Missing You |
Diddy 112 Faith Evans | Automatic For The People | 1997 | 99M+ |
| 7. Spirit In The Sky | Norman Greenbaum | Spirit In The Sky (Deluxe Edition) | 1969 | 19M+ |
1. See You Again
And I'll tell you all about it when I see you again ”
Song information
| ArtistWiz Khalifa, Charlie Puth | Release2015 |
| Time03:58 | View6B+ |
| Likes 44M+ | SuitableNostalgic Millennials |
| AlbumSuper HitsListen on Spotify | |
- Pop
- Emotional Ballad
- Pop ballad
- R&B
- Hip-Hop
'See You Again' by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth is a poignant and emotionally charged song that speaks to the enduring power of memory and the bittersweet hope of a future reunion. The song's delicate piano melody and soulful vocals create a melancholic yet comforting atmosphere, offering solace to those who are grieving. The lyrics, which express a heartfelt longing to see someone again, coupled with the themes of love, remembrance, and the passage of time, evoke a deep sense of empathy and resonate with the pain of loss.
The song's origins as a tribute to Paul Walker, a beloved actor whose untimely passing deeply affected millions, add another layer of significance. Its inclusion in the film 'Furious 7' and its use during the closing scenes, serving as a farewell to Walker's character, further enhances its emotional impact. 'See You Again' transcends the typical boundaries of a funeral song, offering a contemporary and heartfelt alternative that celebrates the life of the deceased while acknowledging the profound sorrow of their absence.
2. Wind Beneath My Wings - Beaches (Original Soundtrack Recording)
You're everything I wish I could be ”
Song information
| ArtistBette Midler | Release1988 |
| Time04:19 | View23M+ |
| Likes 158K+ | SuitableMotivated Individuals |
| AlbumBeaches (Original Soundtrack Recording)Listen on Spotify | |
- Inspirational ballad
- Bette Midler
- Uplifting Melody
- Soaring Vocals
- Supportive Anthem
'Wind Beneath My Wings' by Bette Midler is more than just a song; it's a poignant tribute to the enduring power of love and support. Its soaring melody and heartfelt lyrics evoke a sense of profound gratitude and appreciation, making it a deeply resonant choice for a funeral. The song's metaphor of the "wind beneath the wings" symbolizes the unseen forces that enable us to rise above challenges and achieve our dreams, a powerful testament to the unwavering love and encouragement that a soulmate, parent, or friend can provide.
The song's universal themes of love, support, and strength make it appropriate for honoring a wide range of individuals. Its timeless quality transcends cultural and generational divides, offering comfort and solace to mourners. Whether the deceased was a parent who provided unwavering support, a spouse who stood by their side through thick and thin, or a friend who always believed in them, 'Wind Beneath My Wings' serves as a fitting musical tribute to the profound impact they had on those who loved them.
3. You Raise Me Up (Josh Groban - 1970)
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas, ”
Song information
| ArtistJosh Groban | Release2003 |
| Time04:51 | View175M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitableAdults |
| AlbumCloserListen on Spotify | |
- Soulful
- Emotional
- Inspirational
- Emotional Lyrics
- Uplifting
Whenever the tune of "You Raise Me Up" by Josh Groban plays, it evokes a profound sense of solace and strength. This powerful ballad, originally performed by Secret Garden and Brian Kennedy, carries a message of unwavering support and the enduring power of love. Josh Groban's emotive delivery amplifies the song's emotional impact, making it a poignant choice for a funeral setting.
The lyrics speak to a universal experience of finding solace and guidance in the face of adversity. The powerful imagery of being "raised up" speaks to the comforting presence of loved ones, whether they are physically present or remembered in spirit. This song can offer comfort to mourners by reminding them that even in the midst of grief, there is still hope and a sense of connection to the departed. Its timeless message of love and support makes it a fitting tribute to a life well-lived, transcending the boundaries of individual beliefs and offering a shared experience of emotional healing.
4. Dance With My Father
Another walk ”
Song information
| ArtistLuther Vandross | Release2003 |
| Time04:20 | View160M+ |
| Likes 856K+ | SuitableOlder Adults |
| AlbumDance With My FatherListen on Spotify | |
- Emotional Ballad
- Father-Daughter Dance
- Loss and Remembrance
- Luther Vandross
"Dance With My Father" a soul-stirring ballad by Luther Vandross, evokes a poignant blend of bittersweet nostalgia and heartfelt longing. The song's emotional impact is profound, resonating with listeners who have experienced the loss of a cherished parent. The lyrics, a tribute to Vandross's own father, paint a vivid picture of a loving father-child bond, filled with cherished memories and a deep yearning for the simple joys of shared moments.
The song's themes of love, memory, and the enduring power of family make it an appropriate choice for a funeral setting. Its gentle melody and Vandross's emotive vocals create a space for reflection and remembrance, allowing mourners to honor the life of the deceased and celebrate the love they shared. "Dance With My Father" offers solace and comfort, reminding listeners that even in the face of loss, love and memories endure.
5. Hallelujah (Grace)
But all I've ever learned from love ”
Song information
| ArtistJeff Buckley | Release1994 |
| Time06:34 | View225M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitableClassical Music Lovers |
| AlbumGraceListen on Spotify | |
- Jeff Buckley
- Emotional ballads
- Acoustic Masterpiece
- Cover Favorites
Jeff Buckley's rendition of "Hallelujah" is a poignant and timeless choice for a funeral. The song's raw emotion, conveyed through Buckley's powerful vocals and the haunting guitar melody, evokes a sense of both sorrow and hope. The lyrics, exploring themes of love, loss, and faith, offer a powerful reflection on life's fragility and the enduring power of human connection.
The song's universality resonates with mourners, providing a space for shared grief and remembrance. Whether played for a loved one who faced adversity or one who lived a life filled with joy, "Hallelujah" offers solace and a sense of closure. Its inclusion in a funeral service allows mourners to gather around a song that transcends personal narratives, creating a shared space for reflection and healing.
6. I'll Be Missing You (Automatic For The People - 1970)
Every single day, every time I pray ”
Song information
| ArtistDiddy, 112, Faith Evans | Release1997 |
| Time04:32 | View99M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitableLovers of hip-hop |
| AlbumAutomatic For The PeopleListen on Spotify | |
- Sad Love Song
- Hip-Hop Ballad
- Tribute song
- Diddy
- 112
"I'll Be Missing You" by Diddy, 112, and Faith Evans, is not only a powerful musical tribute but also a testament to the enduring impact of The Notorious B.I.G.'s legacy. The song, which won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group, reached the pinnacle of the Billboard Hot 100 for an astounding 11 weeks. The song's emotional depth resonates deeply with listeners, offering solace and a poignant reminder of the enduring pain of loss.
The song's sampling of The Police's "Every Breath You Take" creates a haunting melody that underscores the bittersweet memories and the profound impact of a loved one's absence. The lyrics, penned as a message of remembrance and mourning, reflect the universal feelings of longing and grief that are often experienced in the wake of a loved one's passing. The song's ability to evoke such raw emotions makes it a deeply moving choice for a funeral, providing a sense of comfort and shared sorrow.
7. Spirit In The Sky (1969)
Gonna go to the place that's the best ”
Song information
| ArtistNorman Greenbaum | Release1969 |
| Time04:00 | View19M+ |
| Likes 183K+ | SuitableRock Fans |
| AlbumSpirit In The Sky (Deluxe Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Folk rock
- Classic rock
- Blues Rock
- Psychedelic Rock
- Rock n Roll
Have you ever heard a song that captures the essence of hope and remembrance? Norman Greenbaum's "Spirit In The Sky" is just that, a melody that carries listeners on a journey of both mourning and celebrating a life lived. With its infectious handclaps, groovy guitar riffs, and lyrics that speak to finding peace and transcendence, "Spirit In The Sky" evokes a feeling of comforting optimism, even in the face of loss. The song's themes of embracing the unknown and the possibility of a better world beyond resonate deeply with those who have lost loved ones, offering a sense of solace and reassurance in the face of grief.
While the song's lightheartedness and positive message might not always be associated with traditional funeral music, its ability to uplift the spirits and encourage reflection makes it a unique and moving choice. Whether it evokes memories of a loved one's gentle spirit, their belief in a higher power, or simply their zest for life, "Spirit In The Sky" can serve as a poignant soundtrack for a celebration of life, reminding us that though we may be saddened by their passing, the spirit of those we love lives on.
8. My Way (Frank Sinatra - 1970)
And so I face the final curtain ”
Song information
| ArtistFrank Sinatra | Release1969 |
| Time04:37 | View214M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableJazz Enthusiasts |
| AlbumMy Way (Expanded Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic Ballad
- Oldies
- Jazz Standard
- Classic
- Retro
"My Way" Frank Sinatra's iconic rendition of the French classic, transcends the boundaries of time and evokes a range of emotions that make it a poignant choice for a funeral setting. Sinatra's powerful voice delivers a message of self-reliance, resilience, and living life to the fullest, themes that resonate deeply with the sentiment of commemorating a life well-lived.
The song's lyrics speak to a journey of overcoming challenges and embracing life's experiences, no matter how difficult they may be. This sense of defiance and determination can serve as a powerful tribute to a loved one who faced life's hardships with courage and grace. "My Way" is a timeless classic that offers a sense of closure and comfort, providing a beautiful and fitting way to honor the memory of a loved one.
9. Tears in Heaven (Eric Clapton - 1970)
I must be strong and carry on ”
Song information
| ArtistEric Clapton | Release1992 |
| Time04:35 | View114M+ |
| Likes 905K+ | SuitableNostalgic Adults |
| AlbumRush (Music from the Motion Picture Soundtrack)Listen on Spotify | |
- Emotional Ballad
- Eric Clapton
- Grieving Loss
While many songs offer solace during times of grief, "Tears in Heaven" by Eric Clapton transcends mere comfort and becomes a poignant echo of shared heartache. Written in the wake of Clapton's own devastating loss, the song's raw vulnerability resonates deeply with those grappling with the pain of a loved one's passing. Its lyrics, filled with yearning and a yearning for connection, offer a sense of understanding, acknowledging the profound emptiness left behind by a departed soul.
"Tears in Heaven" is a fitting choice for a funeral setting because of its contemplative nature. The song's melancholic melody and introspective lyrics provide a space for mourners to reflect on the life and impact of the deceased, offering a shared moment of remembrance and reflection. Whether played during the service or as a final farewell, its gentle, mournful embrace allows for a dignified expression of grief and a tender acknowledgment of the enduring bonds of love.
10. Fire and Rain (1970)
I've seen sunny days that I thought would never end ”
Song information
| ArtistJames Taylor | Release1970 |
| Time03:25 | View6M+ |
| Likes 55K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumSweet Baby James (2019 Remaster)Listen on Spotify | |
With its gentle rhythms and the acoustic strumming of a guitar, "Fire and Rain" by James Taylor carries a timeless quality that evokes a profound sense of reflection. Its lyrics, filled with vulnerability and resilience, speak to the trials and triumphs of life, making it a poignant choice for a funeral. The song's melancholic yet hopeful tone captures the bittersweet nature of loss, offering comfort and solace to those who are grieving.
"Fire and Rain" transcends the boundaries of time and resonates deeply with those who have experienced the complexities of life. Its themes of loss, resilience, and the enduring power of memory make it particularly relevant for honoring the life of a loved one. The song's evocative lyrics, such as "I've seen fire and I've seen rain," offer a powerful reminder of the challenges and beauty that life can hold. As mourners gather to celebrate a life well-lived, "Fire and Rain" provides a soundtrack of shared emotions, offering solace in the face of sorrow and a gentle reminder of the precious memories that endure.
11. To Where You Are (Josh Groban)
Maybe you're still here ”
Song information
| ArtistJosh Groban | Release2001 |
| Time03:55 | View5M+ |
| Likes 33K+ | SuitableRomantic Listeners |
| AlbumJosh GrobanListen on Spotify | |
- Romantic Ballad
- Soaring Vocals
- Josh Groban
- Cinematic Orchestral
"To Where You Are" released in 2001 by Josh Groban, is a timeless ballad that captures the essence of grief and the hope of a reunion beyond the physical world. Its tender melody, soaring vocals, and deeply moving lyrics make it a powerful choice for a funeral, offering solace and comfort to those grieving.
The song's themes of love, loss, and the enduring connection between souls resonate deeply with those who have lost a loved one. The lyrics, "To where you are, I know that you are safe and sound," speak to a universal desire to believe that our loved ones are at peace in a better place. Whether the deceased was a spouse, parent, child, or friend, "To Where You Are" provides a poignant reminder that their memory lives on and that their spirit continues to touch our lives. The song's ability to evoke both tears and a sense of hope makes it a suitable choice for honoring the life of someone we cherish.
12. Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Way up high ”
Song information
| ArtistIsrael Kamakawiwo'ole | Release1993 |
| Time03:48 | View1B+ |
| Likes 10M+ | SuitableN/a |
"Somewhere Over the Rainbow" as performed by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, is a song that transcends the boundaries of time and grief, offering solace and hope in the face of loss. IZ's gentle ukulele melody, combined with his warm, soulful vocals, creates an atmosphere of peace and serenity. The lyrics speak of dreams and aspirations, a yearning for a better world, and a belief in the possibility of overcoming adversity – sentiments that resonate deeply during a time of mourning.
This song's universal themes of hope and longing make it a particularly moving choice for a funeral. It can serve as a poignant reminder that while the physical presence of a loved one may be gone, their spirit lives on, soaring "somewhere over the rainbow" in a realm of peace and happiness. The song's enduring popularity, evident in its numerous accolades and enduring presence in popular culture, speaks to its timeless power to touch the hearts of those who are grieving.
13. Angel (Sarah McLachlan)
Fly away from here ”
Song information
| ArtistSarah McLachlan | Release1997 |
| Time05:35 | View51M+ |
| Likes 257K+ | SuitableN/a |
From the very first notes of "Angel" by Sarah McLachlan, a profound sense of peace and tranquility washes over the listener. The song's gentle piano melody and McLachlan's ethereal vocals create an atmosphere of quiet reflection, making it a poignant choice for a funeral. "Angel" is a deeply personal and heartfelt tribute to those who have passed, conveying a sense of love, loss, and the enduring power of memory.
The song's lyrics speak to the universal experience of grief and the longing for a loved one who is no longer physically present. McLachlan's haunting vocals evoke a sense of longing and the bittersweet beauty of remembering a life well-lived. "Angel" is a song that can offer comfort and solace to those who are grieving, reminding them that their loved ones continue to live on in their hearts and memories. Its universal themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of the spirit make it a fitting choice for a funeral, whether it is a traditional ceremony or a more contemporary gathering.
14. Unforgettable (Natalie Cole)
Unforgettable, though near or far ”
Song information
| ArtistNatalie Cole | Release1991 |
| Time03:33 | View152K+ |
| Likes 2K+ | SuitableN/a |
With its tender melody and Natalie Cole's heartfelt vocals, "Unforgettable" transcends time, offering a poignant and timeless tribute to those we have lost. The song's essence lies in its ability to evoke memories, celebrate a life lived, and inspire hope amidst grief. The virtual duet with Nat King Cole adds a layer of bittersweet beauty, echoing the enduring bond between a parent and child. "Unforgettable" is a tribute to a loved one's enduring spirit and a reminder that their memory continues to live on in our hearts.
The song's gentle rhythm and soft melodies create a peaceful and reflective atmosphere, making it appropriate for a funeral setting. Whether the deceased was a fan of Nat King Cole or simply cherished the song's message of lasting love, "Unforgettable" provides a moving musical tribute that transcends generations. It offers a comforting sense of closure, reminding us that even though someone is gone, their essence remains a part of our lives.
15. Candle in the Wind (Elton John)
Though I never knew you at all ”
Song information
| ArtistElton John | Release1973 |
| Time04:26 | View29M+ |
| Likes 116K+ | SuitableN/a |
"Candle in the Wind" - Elton John is a timeless ballad that resonates deeply with the sentiment of loss and remembrance. The song's emotional impact is profound, creating a space for reflection on the life and legacy of the departed. Its melancholic melody and poignant lyrics, particularly the line "Your candle burned out long before your legend ever did," evoke a sense of profound sadness and the bittersweet acknowledgment of a life cut short.
The song's universal themes of mortality, fame, and the fleeting nature of life make it suitable for a funeral setting. Whether it's the original 1973 version, a tribute to Marilyn Monroe, or the 1997 rendition dedicated to Princess Diana, "Candle in the Wind" transcends specific individuals, offering a powerful reflection on the human condition. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to evoke a profound emotional response in listeners, connecting them to the shared experience of loss and the enduring power of memory.
16. Keep Me in Your Heart (Warren Zevon)
Keep me in your heart for awhile ”
Song information
| ArtistWarren Zevon | Release2003 |
| Time03:27 | View5M+ |
| Likes 33K+ | SuitableN/a |
"Keep Me in Your Heart" a poignant farewell from the late Warren Zevon, carries a powerful emotional weight that makes it a fitting choice for a funeral. This song, written as Zevon faced his own mortality, captures the bittersweet reality of loss while offering solace and a sense of enduring connection. The lyrics, filled with both sadness and hope, speak to the enduring nature of love and memory, reminding listeners that even though someone may be gone, their spirit lives on in the hearts of those who loved them.
Zevon's heartfelt lyrics, like "Keep me in your heart, for I am with you", and "I'll be your ghost, I'll haunt you," offer comfort and a sense of presence, even in the absence of a physical form. The song's gentle melody and introspective lyrics create a space for reflection and remembrance, making it a powerful way to honor the memory of a loved one and celebrate their life. Whether chosen for a traditional or contemporary funeral, "Keep Me in Your Heart" serves as a beautiful testament to the enduring bonds of love and the impact a life can leave behind.
17. Bridge Over Troubled Water (1970)
Sail on by ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistSimon , Garfunkel | Release1970 |
| Time04:54 | View37M+ |
| Likes 252K+ | SuitableN/a |
Have you ever listened to a melody that captures the essence of both comfort and resilience? 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' by Simon & Garfunkel is that song, offering a sanctuary of hope in times of sorrow. Its gentle, sweeping melody and Paul Simon's heartfelt lyrics paint a picture of unwavering support, creating an atmosphere of solace that resonates deeply with those grieving.
The song's title itself speaks to its central theme: offering a haven during life's storms. The lyrics, "I'll be there to comfort you," and "I'll be your bridge over troubled water," convey a message of unwavering love and support, a sentiment that resonates deeply with the loss of a loved one. 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' transcends time and offers a beacon of hope, reminding listeners that even in the darkest of moments, there is still love and strength to be found. It's a song that can be shared at a funeral, not just as a beautiful melody but as a symbol of enduring connection, a reminder that the deceased's love and memory will forever remain as a bridge through life's challenges.
18. I Will Remember You - 1970
I'm so tired but I can't sleep ”
Song information
| ArtistSarah McLachlan | Release1995 |
| Time03:40 | View35M+ |
| Likes 153K+ | SuitableN/a |
In a world of music often driven by high-energy beats and catchy melodies, 'I Will Remember You' by Sarah McLachlan offers a poignant and deeply moving experience. This ballad, known for its gentle piano accompaniment and McLachlan's heartfelt vocals, captures the essence of grief and remembrance with a powerful emotional resonance.
The lyrics of 'I Will Remember You' speak of enduring love, cherishing memories, and the bittersweet beauty of saying goodbye. This theme of remembrance makes the song a fitting tribute to a loved one who has passed away, offering solace and comfort during a time of loss. The song's quiet strength and gentle melody create a space for reflection, allowing mourners to honor the deceased's life and celebrate their enduring presence in the hearts of those left behind. Whether played at a funeral service or shared privately, 'I Will Remember You' serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact loved ones have on our lives, even after they are gone.
19. Talking to My Angel
Close your eyes ”
Song information
| ArtistMelissa Etheridge | Release1993 |
| Time04:49 | View391K+ |
| Likes 4K+ | SuitableN/a |
'Talking to My Angel' by Melissa Etheridge, a poignant and heartfelt ballad released in 1993, stands out as a powerful choice for a funeral song, particularly for those seeking a more contemporary and deeply personal touch. Much like the works of artists like Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell, who have also explored themes of loss and remembrance, this song delves into the complex emotions surrounding grief and the longing to connect with loved ones who have passed.
Etheridge's own experience with the loss of her father in 1991 is woven into the lyrics, creating a powerful and relatable narrative for anyone mourning a loved one. The song's gentle melody and Etheridge's emotionally raw vocals provide a sense of comfort and hope, suggesting that while physical presence may be gone, the connection with the deceased can live on. 'Talking to My Angel' transcends traditional funeral songs, offering a moving expression of grief and the enduring power of love, making it a poignant and meaningful tribute to those we've lost.
20. You'll Never Walk Alone - 1970
With hope in your heart ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistGerry , The Pacemakers | Release1963 |
| Time02:49 | View82M+ |
| Likes 550K+ | SuitableN/a |
"You'll Never Walk Alone" performed by Gerry & The Pacemakers, is more than just a song; it's a powerful anthem of resilience and hope that resonates deeply with those experiencing loss. While its origins lie in the musical "Carousel," its enduring appeal lies in its ability to offer comfort and a sense of shared strength.
The song's message of unwavering support and the belief that one is never truly alone in times of hardship makes it a poignant choice for a funeral. Whether the deceased was a devout Liverpool Football Club supporter or simply someone who appreciated the song's universal message, the lyrics "You'll never walk alone" provide a powerful reminder that love and remembrance transcend physical boundaries. This song would be a fitting tribute, offering solace and a sense of shared strength to those mourning the loss of a loved one.