When planning a memorial service, music is a critical part. Many people are using folk songs instead of traditional organ music, for a more contemporary service. Here are the 10 most popular songs we’ve found that people use for funerals, memorials, and celebrations of life.
We have monitored which songs people searching for songs for a funeral buy most often. Most of the songs are contemporary and many of them are about angels, which are a popular theme for a funeral.
Before choosing a song, you’ll want to listen to it and read all the lyrics to make sure it works well for you.
Angel – by Sarah McLachlan
This song is very modern and beautiful. The main letter:
“You are in the arms of the angel
May you find some comfort here.”
As Far As You Are – by Josh Groban
A moving song with an operatic and dramatic touch. Listening to the song makes you want to cry.
“Take me to where you are
Beyond the distant star
wish tonight
to see you smile
Even if it’s just for a while to know you’re there”
Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Israel Kamamawiwo’ole
Combining the classic songs “Somewhere over the Rainbow” and “What a Wonderful World”, this song has added a Hawaiian touch and a very relaxed vibe. It features ukulele music and has been included in several movie soundtracks. The artist died at the age of 38 in 1997.
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow
blue birds fly
and the dream that I dare to
Oh why, oh why can’t I
Well I see trees of green and
red roses too
I’ll watch them grow by
moi et toi”
Sissy’s Song – By Alan Jackson
This country song is a good song for a young woman’s funeral. It was written for the funeral of a woman who worked for Alan Jackson after she was killed in a motorcycle accident.
“Lovely sweet young woman
daughter, wife and mother
doesn’t make sense to me…
…She flew to heaven on the wings of angels
Through the clouds and the stars and passed where no one sees
And she walks with Jesus and her loved ones waiting.”
I’ll Remember You – by Sarah McLachlan
Another by Sarah McLachlan is in the top ten. This song is tied with “Barrowed Angels” at number 1.
“But I’ll remember you
You will remember me?
Don’t let your life slip away
Don’t cry for the memories”
Borrowed Angels – by Kristin Chenoweth
There is a classic feeling in this song. This song and “I Will Remember You” are the two most popular songs. The song was performed by Chenoweth during the 9/11 remembrance ceremony in Lower Manhattan on September 11, 2010. This song would work especially well for a child’s or baby’s funeral.
“There must be Angels on loan, here in this life
They come into this world and make this world shine
They can’t stay forever ’cause they’re heaven sent
And sometimes, heaven needs them again”
Angels Among Us – by Alabama
This song tends to get stuck in your mind. It’s a sweet, soulful song with a catchy tune, and it was written by Becky Hobbs and Don Goodman.
They have so many faces
Appears in the strangest places
Grace us with your mercy
In our time of need”
When I Get Where I’m Going – by Brad Paisley
Featuring Dolly Parton, this country song is good for a grandpa. The music video features various people holding photos of loved ones who have died, including Michael Reagan holding a photo of Ronald Reagan, Dolly Parton holding a photo of her grandfather, and John Carter Cash holding a photo of his parents, Johnny Cash and June Carter. . Cash.
“I’m going to walk with my grandfather
And it will match me step by step
And I’ll tell him how I missed him
Every minute since he left
Then I’ll hug your neck”
Dancing with Angels – by Monk and Neagle
This is a Christian group from Amarillo, Texas. The song is perfect for a funeral and is very uplifting with an acoustic pop sound.
“You’re dancing with the angels
the sky fills your eyes
Now that you’re dancing with the angels”
You’ll be in my heart – By Phil Collins
This “Tarzan” song would suit a grandparent or parent because it speaks of “my arms will hold you safe and strong.” It’s a popular song that most people know.
“You will be in my heart
No matter what they say
You will be here
In my heart always
Forever”
Any of these songs would be suitable for a funeral or memorial. If you use multiple songs, you can burn a CD of the songs and add other favorite songs of your loved one. Give the CD to friends and family as a reminder of the person you have lost.
