25 Ideas for funeral songs: A heartfelt guide

Choosing the right funeral music can feel overwhelming. It’s a personal decision that reflects the life and personality of the deceased. Whether you’re seeking comfort, celebration, or simply a way to honour their memory, the music you choose at a funeral can provide a powerful connection.

In this guide, we’ll explore funeral music ideas to help you find the perfect songs for your loved one’s funeral service.

Popular funeral songs

When it comes to choosing music for a funeral, some songs stand out as timeless classics. These popular funeral songs have been comforting families for generations, offering solace and hope in times of grief.

1. Amazing Grace – A timeless hymn offering hope and forgiveness, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, there’s brighter times ahead.
2. Ave Maria – Franz Schubert - A serene and classical piece that evokes feelings of peace and tranquility.
3. Over the Rainbow – Eva Cassidy - A song that portrays hope and speaks of a better place, offering inspiration and comfort.
4. Fields of Gold – Eva Cassidy – A beautiful song that celebrates the simple joys of life and the power of love.
5. What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong – A renowned classic that expresses gratitude for the beauty and wonder of the world.
6. Hallelujah – Jeff Buckley – This iconic song is a popular choice for funerals thanks to its poignant lyrics and melody.
7. Yesterday – The Beatles – A Beatles classic that evokes nostalgia and the fleeting nature of time, reminding us to cherish the moments we have.
8. Time to Say Goodbye - Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman – A popular classical piece that offers a sense of closure and acceptance.
9. I’ll be Seeing You – Billie Holiday – A song that embodies romance and long-lasting love.
10. Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton – A loved classic known for its beauty, honest, and heartfelt lyrics.

Classical funeral songs

For those seeking a more traditional and formal atmosphere, classical music can provide a dignified and elegant backdrop for a funeral service. These classical funeral songs offer a sense of peace and tranquility.

1. Requiem – Mozart – A sombre piece known for its powerful expression of grief and hope.
2. Fur Elise – Beethoven – A delicate and melancholic piano composition that is a popular classical funeral song.
3. Canon D in Major – Pachelbel – A timeless and uplifting piece, Canon in D provides listeners with a sense of peace and serenity.
4. Adagio for Strings – Barber – A moving, and expressive piece that evokes sorrow and contemplation.
5. Clair de Lune – Debussy – A serene and dreamlike composition, offering a sense of comfort and tranquility.

Modern funeral songs

If the funeral you’re planning is taking a more contemporary approach, modern funeral songs can reflect the tastes and interests of the deceased and their loved ones. These songs often offer a personal and meaningful way to honour a life well-lived.

1. Supermarket Flowers – Ed Sheeran – This song focuses on the simple everyday moments that may be missed after a loved one’s passing.
2. A Sky Full of Stars – Coldplay – This powerful song is uplifting and celebrates the beauty of life.
3. Angels – Robbie Williams – A Robbie Williams classic that suggests that angels are watching over us and guiding us through life.
4. When We Were Young – Adele – A song that reflects on the nostalgia of the past and bittersweet nature of memories.
5. Halo – Beyonce – A song that could be considered a tribute to someone’s beauty and eternal presence. The powerful lyrics can offer comfort and hope.

Uplifting funeral songs

For those who wish to celebrate life with joy and optimism, uplifting funeral songs can create a positive and hopeful atmosphere. These songs offer comfort, encouragement, and a sense of peace.

1. Three Little Birds – Bob Marley – This reggae classic encourages optimism and resilience, suggesting that everything will be alright.
2. My Way – Frank Sinatra – This iconic song celebrates a life well-lived and the importance of pursuing dreams.
3. Stand by Me – Ben E. King – A timeless classic emphasising the importance of friendship, loyalty, and support.
4. Always Look on the Bright Side of Life –Monty Python – While associated with humour, this song’s optimistic message can be uplifting and encouraging during a difficult time.
5. Unforgettable – Nat King Cole – This classic song has a romantic and nostalgic tone that can evoke fond memories.