15 Best Rock Funeral Songs
For those of you who are on the search for modern or classic rock funeral songs – either for your dad, mom, or another loved one – you’ve come to the right place. This article gives you 15 fantastic choices for funeral rock songs you can use during a funeral. These rock songs would also be great choices for a celebration of life, memorial service, or any other type of commemorative event in your loved one’s memory.
Are rock songs appropriate for funerals?
While selecting classic or modern rock songs for funerals isn’t necessarily the most traditional choice, it certainly doesn’t mean that it’s not appropriate. The appropriateness of rock songs for funerals depends on individual preferences and the cultural context of the funeral. While traditional funeral music often consists of hymns or classical pieces, rock songs can absolutely be a meaningful choice for honoring the deceased. Rock music encompasses a wide range of styles, emotions, and themes, allowing you to select songs that resonate with the personality, interests, or favorite music of the departed. Some rock songs carry messages of comfort, remembrance, or reflection that can provide solace to grieving individuals. The decision to include rock songs in a funeral service should be based on the wishes of the deceased and their loved ones, considering their personal beliefs and the overall tone and atmosphere desired for the funeral.
When is a good time to play rock funeral songs?
Songs can be played at various moments during a funeral to create a meaningful and emotional atmosphere. Here are some common moments during a funeral where songs are often played:
- Pre-funeral gathering: As mourners gather before the funeral service begins, soft background music can be played to create a calming ambiance and provide comfort to those in attendance.
- Processional: A song can be played as the casket or urn is brought into the ceremony venue, leading the mourners and setting the tone for the service. This song often reflects the personality or favorite music of the deceased.
- Reflection: After the eulogies or personal tributes, a song may be played to allow mourners a moment of reflection. The song can capture the essence of the deceased or provide a backdrop for contemplation.
- Slideshow or photo montage: If a slideshow or photo montage is included in the funeral service, songs can be selected to accompany the visual presentation. These songs may evoke memories, capture the spirit of the person's life, or reflect their favorite music.
- Committal or closing: As the funeral service nears its end, a song can be played during the committal or the moment when the casket or urn is being moved for burial or cremation. Recessional: As the mourners exit the venue or the funeral procession begins, a song can be played to provide closure and set a final tone of remembrance or hope as people say their final goodbyes.
It’s important to note that cultural and religious traditions may influence the timing and selection of music during the funeral service. If you have concerns about this, consulting with your funeral director or religious leader is a great place to start.
Best rock funeral songs
In this list of some of the best classic and modern rock funeral songs, you may find something that speaks to you or to the life of the person who has passed away.
1. "By My Side" by INXS
This is a song about missing someone who used to be there to comfort you when you needed them most. This song is an excellent way to acknowledge the difficulty in losing someone so special.
2. "Let It Be" by the Beatles
The Beatles, one of the most influential rock groups of all time, are next on the list with their song "Let It Be”. ”Let It Be” is a song about the necessity of persevering, even when things get difficult, which can be a hopeful message for those who are attending a funeral service.
3. "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd
This introspective song reflects on loss and longing for someone who is no longer present. Its emotional lyrics capture the feelings of missing someone dearly, making it a poignant choice for a funeral song.
4. "I Will Remember You" by Sarah McLachlan
Sarah McLachlan’s hit song is all about remembrance and keeping someone’s memory in mind. Its tender and heartfelt lyrics express the enduring memories of a loved one and the desire to keep their spirit alive. It serves as a tribute to the deceased, making it fitting for a funeral.
5. "Longer" by Dan Fogelberg
This beautiful ballad speaks of eternal love and cherishing the time spent together. It emphasizes the significance of the connection between two people, making it a meaningful choice to celebrate a lasting bond at a funeral.
6. "What I've Done" by Linkin Park
While this song might have a more alternative sound, its lyrics can resonate with mourners. It explores themes of reflection and redemption, acknowledging mistakes made and seeking forgiveness. It can serve as a reminder to let go of guilt and embrace the healing process.
7. "Candle In The Wind" by Elton John
Originally written as a tribute to Marilyn Monroe and later adapted for Princess Diana, this song has become synonymous with memorializing loved ones. Its poignant lyrics and gentle melody evoke a sense of loss and commemorate the life of the departed.
8. "Hallelujah" by Bon Jovi
This powerful song reflects on the challenges of life and finding solace in moments of sorrow. Its uplifting chorus and message of perseverance can provide a sense of hope and resilience during a funeral service.
9. "Everything I Own" by Bread
This heartfelt song expresses a deep sense of loss and grief over someone's departure. It conveys the message that material possessions hold no value compared to the presence of a loved one. Its poignant lyrics can resonate with mourners and evoke emotions of love and longing.
10. "Everybody Hurts" by R.E.M.
R.E.M. acknowledges the pain and struggles that everyone goes through, reminding mourners that they are not alone in their grief. Its compassionate lyrics and soothing melody can offer comfort and empathy during a funeral.
11. "Say Hello 2 Heaven" by Temple of the Dog
Written as a tribute to the late Andrew Wood, the lead singer of Mother Love Bone, this song explores themes of loss and longing. It conveys a sense of longing to reconnect with a departed loved one, making it a suitable choice for a funeral.
12. "Who Wants to Live Forever" by Queen
This song contemplates the transient nature of life and the desire for immortality. It encapsulates the bittersweet emotions of loss and the longing for eternal connection, making it a thought-provoking choice for a funeral.
13. "Funeral for a Friend" by Elton John
This instrumental piece captures a somber and reflective mood and is written by the great Elton John. Its moving melodies and evocative composition make it a suitable choice for the procession or a moment of reflection during a funeral service.
14. "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin
Known as one of the greatest rock ballads of all time, this epic song carries a mystical and spiritual undertone. Its lyrics and gradual build-up evoke a sense of transcendence and the journey towards a higher realm, making it a popular choice for memorial services.
15. "Yesterday" by The Beatles
This timeless ballad is a reflection on the past and the yearning for what was lost. Its nostalgic lyrics and gentle melody can evoke feelings of sentimentality and remembrance, making it an appropriate choice to honor a loved one's memory at a funeral.
If you’ve recently lost someone, are in charge of planning a funeral, or are just looking for a way to commemorate the life of a loved one – Ever Loved is here to help. You can set up a free memorial website, use the free after-death checklist, and access many downloadable resources and articles, all in one place.
