Top 10 most played funeral songs

Published: 5/5/2023

At a funeral, the music played can set the mood for the service and can be a powerful way to convey feelings about your lost loved one. Choosing the right funeral song can be a daunting task with such an infinite number of choices out there, but there will always be a song that will represent your feelings.  

To help you, we have compiled a list of the 10 most popular funeral songs. These songs have resonated with people for several decades and we hope they bring comfort and solace to you and your family.  

Wind Beneath my Wings - by Bette Midler

This beautiful and emotional song has become a timeless classic and is perfect for all generations. It's a song that stays with you and can help to remind us of the love and support that our loved ones provide us.  

Wish You Were Here - by Pink Floyd

This classic tune has become a staple at funerals as it makes a great connection between life and death. It can unite people in the service together and provide a sense of togetherness during a difficult time.  

Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life - by Eric Idle from "Monty Python's Life of Brian"

This somewhat cheerful song is a popular choice for those who want to lift the mourners up and remind them of happier times. It reminds us that life is full of ups and downs and we should try to stay positive even during tough times.  

Over The Rainbow - by Israel Kamakawiwo

This simple and beautiful rendition of "Over The Rainbow" can put a smile on people's faces when they need it most. It can also be used to motivate others to express their desires and dreams even in the face of challenging times.  

You'll Never Walk Alone - Gerry & The Pacemakers

A powerful reminder that we are never truly alone. This song shows us that when all hope seems lost, we can always find comfort in the people around us. It also reminds us that our actions have a wider impact on our community.

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See You Again - by Wiz Khalifa feat Charlie Puth

This modern tune is a popular choice for younger generations,as it relates to the bonds that will never be broken and memories that will never fade. It provides a sense of hope and comfort that our loved ones will always be with us in spirit.  

You Raise Me Up - by Westlife

This inspirational song refers to people in our lives that raise us up and encourage us to stay strong through the toughest times. It has connotations of power and provides a sense of inspiration and motivation during difficult times.

Candle In The Wind - by Elton John

This song was originally written in tribute to the late Marilyn Monroe and later sung at the funeral of Princess Diana. It compares us to "Candles In The Wind," highlighting our vulnerability and reminding us to cherish the time we have with our loved ones.

My Way - by Frank Sinatra

This song is a classic melody of self-efficacy, alluding to the way that people live their lives. It encourages us to live our lives the way that we want to and provides a sense of defiance during difficult times.  

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Hallelujah - by Bon Jovi

This beautiful modernised version of the Leonard Cohen original is a universally played song during times of celebration, mourning and reconciliation. It provides a sense of joyous praise and can be a powerful way to remember our loved ones.

One of the most important considerations when choosing funeral songs is whether they are appropriate for the occasion. They should always be respectful and should not contain lyrics that could be thought as offensive or inappropriate. Funeral songs should, in essence, be chosen for their ability to evoke feelings of love, hope and remembrance.  

RELATED ARTICLE: Popular funeral poems and verses

While the songs on our list are popular and well loved, they may not necessarily be the right fit for your funeral service. Therefore, it's important to take the time to choose songs that are meaningful and relevant to the person being honoured and bring comfort and solace to those who are grieving.  

Music has the power to bring people together and create a shared experience that can be both healing and cathartic and the ability to help people come to terms with their grief. The choice of funeral songs is a personal one and the songs you choose should reflect the personality and spirit of your loved one. 

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