Songs For Funerals hold a unique power to comfort and unite during times of loss.
They can express emotions that words alone often cannot convey.
From uplifting melodies to solemn hymns, the right music can honor a loved one’s memory in a deeply personal way.
Choosing the perfect songs for a funeral is a thoughtful way to reflect their life, values, and the impact they had on others.
In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of heartfelt Songs For Funerals to help you create a meaningful and memorable tribute.
1. “Funeral” by Lukas Graham (2015) – Perfect R&B Song For Funerals
About this song:
- Album: Lukas Graham (Blue Album)
- Released: 2015
- Artist: Lukas Graham
- Genre: R&B
- Key Lyric: “Everyone welcome to my funeral. Everyone I know better be wasted.”
Released in 2015, “Funeral” by Lukas Graham is an unconventional yet meaningful song about celebrating life even in death.
It comes from their self-titled Blue Album, which features a mix of reflective and soulful tracks.
The song presents a fresh perspective on funerals, urging loved ones to remember the good times and revel in shared memories rather than dwell in sorrow.
Written during a time of personal growth for Lukas Graham, it captures themes of gratitude and joy, underlined by soulful R&B tones.
Its lighthearted yet emotional approach makes it an inspiring choice for funerals, encouraging a celebration of life rather than a focus on loss.
2. “The Funeral” by Band of Horses (2006) – Best Electronic Song For Funerals
About this song:
- Album: Everything All the Time
- Released: 2006
- Artist: Band of Horses
- Genre: Indie Rock, Dance/Electronic
- Key Lyric: “At every occasion, oh, I’m ready for the funeral. At every occasion of one billion day funeral.”
“The Funeral” by Band of Horses is an iconic track from their 2006 debut album, Everything All the Time.
The song stands out for its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, which explore themes of life, death, and missed opportunities.
While not written explicitly for funerals, its universal themes of mortality resonate deeply, making it a poignant addition to memorial services.
The band has described the song as a metaphor for life’s important moments and how they are sometimes underappreciated.
Its emotional depth and unique indie sound make it a powerful, soul-stirring choice for honoring a loved one.
3. “Angels” by Robbie Williams (1997) – Recommended Soft Rock Song For Funerals
About this song:
- Album: Life thru a Lens
- Released: 1997
- Artist: Robbie Williams
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Pop, Soft Rock
- Key Lyric: “When I come to call, She won’t forsake me. I’m lovin’ angels instead.”
Released in 1997, “Angels” by Robbie Williams has become one of the most iconic songs for moments of reflection and comfort.
Written by Robbie Williams and Guy Chambers, the song is a heartfelt ballad about spiritual protection and love.
Its deeply emotional lyrics convey a message of hope and strength, making it a popular choice for both funerals and other significant life events.
Included in his debut solo album, Life thru a Lens, the song helped establish Williams as a standout solo artist after leaving Take That.
The blend of soft rock and meaningful lyrics ensures it remains a timeless tribute to the enduring presence of love and guidance.
4. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin (1971) – Awesome Folk Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: Led Zeppelin IV
- Released: 1971
- Artist: Led Zeppelin
- Genre: Hard Rock, Progressive Rock, Folk Rock
- Key Lyric: “There’s a lady who’s sure all that glitters is gold. And she’s buying a stairway to Heaven.”
“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin, released in 1971, remains one of the most celebrated songs in rock history.
The song’s poetic lyrics and gradual progression from a soft folk melody to an intense rock crescendo make it a mesmerizing piece.
Written by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, it reflects a journey toward spiritual fulfillment, aligning beautifully with themes of transcendence and peace.
It was composed during a retreat in Wales, which inspired much of its reflective and mystical atmosphere.
Its combination of profound meaning and powerful delivery ensures it is a fitting tribute for moments of reflection and farewell.
5. “When I Get Where I’m Going” by Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton (2005) – Remarkable Country Song For Funerals
About this song:
- Album: Time Well Wasted
- Released: 2005
- Artist: Brad Paisley, Dolly Parton
- Genre: Country, Contemporary Christian
- Key Lyric: “Yeah when I get where I’m going, Don’t cry for me down here.”
“When I Get Where I’m Going”, released in 2005, is a heartfelt collaboration between Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton.
The song focuses on themes of faith, peace, and the promise of an afterlife, offering comfort to those grieving a loved one.
Its lyrics reflect a serene acceptance of life’s end, making it a deeply emotional choice for a funeral.
Featured in Brad Paisley’s album Time Well Wasted, the song beautifully blends country and Christian music traditions.
Its touching message and gentle melody resonate with audiences, offering hope and reassurance during difficult times.
6. “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong (1967) – Stunning Pop Song
About this song:
- Album: What a Wonderful World
- Released: 1967
- Artist: Louis Armstrong
- Genre: Pop, R&B
- Key Lyric: “And I think to myself. What a wonderful world.”
The timeless “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong was released in 1967 and is beloved for its uplifting and serene message.
Written during a turbulent period in the 1960s, it paints a hopeful vision of beauty and kindness that transcends hardship.
Armstrong’s soulful voice combined with the poetic lyrics creates an emotional connection that resonates deeply with listeners.
The song celebrates the simple joys of life, offering a comforting reminder of the goodness still present in the world.
Its optimistic tone and universal appeal make it an excellent choice for reflecting on a life well-lived at a funeral.
7. “Awake My Soul” by Mumford & Sons (2009) – Excellent Indie Song For Funerals
About this song:
- Album: Sigh No More
- Released: 2009
- Artist: Mumford & Sons
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Rock, Folk
- Key Lyric: “Awake my soul. For you were made to meet your maker.”
“Awake My Soul”, released in 2009, is a moving track from Mumford & Sons’ debut album Sigh No More.
The lyrics delve into themes of spirituality, purpose, and the inevitability of returning to one’s creator.
Its raw instrumentation and heartfelt vocals create a reflective atmosphere that aligns well with commemorating a life.
The song was inspired by Marcus Mumford’s exploration of existential questions and the search for meaning.
Its profound lyrics and soul-stirring melody make it a fitting piece for a funeral, encouraging introspection and peace.
8. “Angel” by Sarah McLachlan (1998) – Wonderful New Age Song
About this song:
- Album: Surfacing
- Released: 1998
- Artist: Sarah McLachlan
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Pop, New Age, Folk
- Key Lyric: “In the arms of the angel. Fly away from here.”
Released in 1998, “Angel” by Sarah McLachlan is a poignant and deeply emotional song featured on her album Surfacing.
McLachlan wrote the song as a tribute to those who struggle with life’s hardships, offering solace through its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics.
The soft piano accompaniment enhances the song’s reflective and comforting qualities, making it ideal for a funeral setting.
Its universal themes of finding peace and release resonate with listeners, providing a sense of closure and hope.
The haunting beauty of this track creates an atmosphere of quiet remembrance, perfectly suited for honoring a loved one.
9. “Save a Place for Me” by Matthew West (2008) – Ideal Christian Song For Funerals
About this song:
- Album: Something to Say
- Released: 2008
- Artist: Matthew West
- Genre: Gospel, Christian
- Key Lyric: “Save a place for me, save some grace for me. I’ll be there soon, I’ll be there soon.”
“Save a Place for Me”, released in 2008, is a touching Gospel ballad from Matthew West’s album Something to Say.
The song reflects on the longing for reunion with loved ones in the afterlife, filled with hope and spiritual comfort.
West wrote this piece as a deeply personal expression of faith, inspired by his own experiences with loss.
Its powerful lyrics and heartfelt delivery make it a comforting reminder of eternal connections and grace.
The gentle melody combined with its moving message offers a sense of peace, making it a perfect choice for a funeral service.
10. “Heaven Was Needing a Hero” by Jo Dee Messina (2010) – Amazing Country Song
About this song:
- Album: Unmistakable Inspiration
- Released: 2010
- Artist: Jo Dee Messina
- Genre: Country
- Key Lyric: “I guess Heaven was needing a hero. Somebody just like you. Brave enough to stand up. For what you believe.”
Released in 2010, “Heaven Was Needing a Hero” is a heartfelt tribute from Jo Dee Messina’s album Unmistakable Inspiration.
The song captures the courage and sacrifices of those who leave a lasting impact, celebrating their life and legacy.
Messina wrote the track with the intention of honoring individuals who have shown extraordinary bravery and strength.
Its touching lyrics and powerful vocals evoke both pride and deep emotion, creating a profound moment of remembrance.
Perfect for funerals, the song pays homage to the spirit of those we’ve lost, emphasizing their significance in our lives.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Songs For Funerals is a deeply personal and meaningful way to honor the memory of a loved one.
Music has the power to comfort, heal, and celebrate the unique life of the person being remembered.
From timeless classics to contemporary ballads, the right song can encapsulate the emotions that words may fail to express.
As you select Songs For Funerals, consider the messages, melodies, and memories that best reflect your loved one’s journey.
Ultimately, these songs create a lasting tribute, providing solace to those left behind and celebrating a life that will never be forgotten.