Reflection Music for Funerals - J & D Lawson Funeral Directors (2024)

FAQs

What is a good song for reflection at a funeral? ›

Some of the most modern songs for funerals include:

Someone like you – Adele. When September Ends – Green Day. I'll Be Missing You – Puff Daddy & Faith Evans. Someone You Loved – Lewis Capaldi.

If you want to raise everyone's spirits, play one of these uplifting memorial songs: “Simply the Best” by Tina Turner. “Always Look at the Bright Side of Life” by Monty Python. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.

Music for Funerals Entrance. The entrance music sets the tone for the ceremony, evoking emotions of reverence and respect. Popular choices often include classical pieces like "Adagio for Strings" by Samuel Barber or "Ave Maria" by Franz Schubert.

One song particularly embodies what a “happy funeral song” sounds like to most people. This timeless gem is Louis Armstrong's “What a Wonderful World,” a poignant and uplifting melody that transcends cultural boundaries.

The most requested song for a traditional funeral service is “Amazing Grace,” a Christian folk hymn written by English poet John Newton. Many find the message of forgiveness and redemption a beautiful tribute to the mercy of God.

Here are some of the most recommended sad songs for grief: Eric Clapton - Tears in Heaven. Sarah Mclachlan - In The Arms of an Angel. The Beatles - Let It Be.

Ave Maria

Particularly popular for Catholic funeral Masses, but universally loved even for non-religious funerals. The lyrics are in either Latin or German, and honour the Virgin Mary - you might recognise the prayer "Hail Mary, full of grace".

Amazing Grace has been a popular choice for funeral music for many years. The song has been covered by hundreds of artists over the years.

What is the uplifting hymn for a funeral? ›

Happy and uplifting hymns for a funeral include:

All Things Bright and Beautiful. Morning Has Broken. Lord of the Dance. Shine Jesus Shine.

“You Can Close Your Eyes” by James Taylor (Lyrics)

Often described as a lullaby, “You Can Close Your Eyes” is soft, peaceful, and quietly uplifting. While it may not meet the true definition of a “funeral song,” it's been widely used as one since its release in 1971.

Songbird – Fleetwood Mac

Written by Christine McVie, this simple ballad is one of Fleetwood Mac's best-known songs. Its words describe the ongoing warmth and presence left behind by a departed loved one.

After the committal when the service concludes, a piece of music is often played as the mourners leave (referred to as 'exit music'). Classical music and hymns are more traditional choices, inspiring calm, grandeur and reflective thinking.

Reflection Music for Funerals

Feelings of grief are very common after someone passes away and a reflective piece of music can put words to some of those feelings. Towner's Tip: Bitter Sweet Symphony by The Verve is a reflective and beautiful piece.

Ave Maria, Celine Dion

The melody is equally beautiful and heartbreaking, touching the heart of each and every listener. Ave Maria is one of the most popular prayer songs, but it's perfect for any kind of funeral service.

A timeless classic that's recognized and loved by countless people, Ave Maria might be the most popular classical song for funerals. Many believe it's the perfect piece for honoring loved ones, as it's an adaptation of the traditional Roman Catholic prayer.

Time to Say Goodbye by Sarah Brightman and Andrea Bocelli

It's a searing classic, and it speaks to something we all have to face, saying goodbye.

What is a happy song to leave a funeral? ›

"'What a Wonderful World' by Louis Armstrong and 'Time to Say Goodbye' by Andrea Bocelli are timeless choices, while 'Supermarket Flowers' by Ed Sheeran and 'Wind Beneath My Wings' by Bette Midler also hold a special place in people's hearts, as they beautifully capture the essence of love and loss.

Any song that implies you are pleased about the person's passing, such as Ray Charles' 'Hit the Road, Jack', 'Somebody that I Used to Know' by Gotye and 'Since U Been Gone' by Kelly Clarkson, should be avoided. 'Dead' and 'The End' by My Chemical Romance are obvious no-nos.

One of the most timeless classics for celebrating life is the eternally happy song, “What a Wonderful World.” Armstrong's soulful and warm voice captures the essence of appreciating life's beauty, even amid grief. This song has become a beloved anthem for celebrating the life of a loved one who has passed.

"'What a Wonderful World' by Louis Armstrong and 'Time to Say Goodbye' by Andrea Bocelli are timeless choices, while 'Supermarket Flowers' by Ed Sheeran and 'Wind Beneath My Wings' by Bette Midler also hold a special place in people's hearts, as they beautifully capture the essence of love and loss.

For your opening statement, introduce yourself and who you were to the deceased. For example: “Hello everyone, for those of you that don't know me, I'm Jim and I'm Flora's oldest grandchild.” “Hi everybody, as Lisa just mentioned, my name is Tracey, and Anthony was my best friend from the age of 5.”

After the committal when the service concludes, a piece of music is often played as the mourners leave (referred to as 'exit music'). Classical music and hymns are more traditional choices, inspiring calm, grandeur and reflective thinking.

"It is Well With My Soul" is a powerful and uplifting funeral hymn that provides solace and comfort to those mourning the loss of a loved one. This Christian hymn carries a profound message of finding peace amidst life's trials and adversity.