28 Funeral Songs For Dad
It can be a difficult decision when it comes to choosing the perfect piece of music to pay respect to our fathers. Our musical choices are a unique opportunity to showcase their personalities and musical tastes – music is often a big part of our fathers’ lives, and so it is only natural that their favourite music should be played as we say our final goodbyes.
Funeral Songs For Dad
From Daughter & Son
- Thank You For Being My Dad
- Dance With My Father
- Father and Son
- The Living Years
- Song For Dad
- Hero
- My Hero
- Father and Daughter
Country and Western
- I Will Always Love You
- Walkin After Midnight
- Love Sick Blue
- Always on my Mind
Uplifting Songs
- My Way
- Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life
- The Beatles – Two of Us
- The Beatles – Here Comes The Sun
Sentimental & Sad
- We’ll Meet Again
- What A Wonderful World
- Eva Cassidy – Over the Rainbow
- Fleetwood Mac – Albatross
- Nat King Cole – Unforgettable
- John Martyn – Small Hours
Gospel Music
- Take My Hand, Precious Lord
- Peace In The Valley
- Amazing Grace
- Lead Me Gently Home
- I’ll Fly Away
- How Great Thou Art
Funeral songs for Dad from daughter & son
Thank You For Being My Dad
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A son rarely tells his Father How he really feels,
A handshake or a pat on the back Is all that he reveals,
I’d like to right that wrong,
Here in this little song.
Thank you for shaping my life,
Thank you for teaching me all you can,
You are no ordinary man,
You make me everything I am.
Thank you for taking the time,
Thank you for showing me the way,
And thank you for being there When I need you,
Thank you for every single day.
Now I’ve been blessed with a son of my own,
Got my own bedtime stories to tell,
If I can raise him half as well as you raised me,
Guess I’ll be doing pretty well.
Thank you for your guiding hand,
Thank you for making my dreams come true,
You’re an extraordinary man,
And I hope you’re as proud of me
As I am proud of you.
Thank you for giving me life,
Thank you for showing me good from bad
.I guess I’m only really trying to say,
Thank you for being my Dad.
Even though the years drift away, I
never took the time just to say,
‘I love you, and I always have,
And thank you for being my Dad.’
‘Thank you for being my Dad.’
As we say goodbye to our fathers, many children will wish to include a song that includes a final message. Jon Barker’s “Thank You For Being My Dad” is as clear a message from a child to their father as you could find in a song. With lyrics thanking a father for being a thoughtful and comforting leader, as well as a loving parent, this song is ideal for saying goodbye to Dad and thanking him for his time.
A son rarely tells his Father
How he really feels,
A handshake or a pat on the back
Is all that he reveals,
I’d like to right that wrong,
Here in this little song
Dance With My Father
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Back when I was a child
Before life removed all the innocence
My father would lift me high
And dance with my mother and me and then
Spin me around till I fell asleep
Then up the stairs he would carry me
And I knew for sure I was loved
If I could get another chance
Another walk, another dance with him
I’d play a song that would never ever end
How I’d love, love, love to dance with my father again, ooh
When I and my mother would disagree
To get my way I would run from her to him
He’d make me laugh just to comfort me, yeah, yeah
Then finally make me do just what my momma said
Later that night when I was asleep
He left a dollar under my sheet
Never dreamed that he would be gone from me
If I could steal one final glance, one final step
One final dance with him
I’d play a song that would never ever end
‘Cause I’d love, love, love to dance with my father again
Sometimes I’d listen outside her door
And I’d hear how my mother cried for him
I pray for her even more than me
I pray for her even more than me
I know I’m praying for much too much
But could you send back the only man she loved?
I know you don’t do it usually
But dear Lord she’s dying to dance with my father again
Every night I fall asleep and this is all I ever dream
If your Dad loved Motown and soul music, then why not pick a Luther Vandross song to play at your father’s funeral? “Dance With My Father” was written by Vandross after his father passed – it is a very emotional song wherein Vandross talks of how he’d love to see his father again. This track is a great choice for a funeral song for Dad.
If I could steal one final glance
One final step
One final dance with him
I’d play a song that would never ever end
Cause I’d love, love, love to
Dance with my father again
Father and Son
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It’s not time to make a change
Just relax, take it easy
You’re still young, that’s your fault
There’s so much you have to know
Find a girl, settle down
If you want you can marry
Look at me, I am old
But I’m happy
I was once like you are now
And I know that it’s not easy
To be calm when you’ve found
Something going on
But take your time, think a lot
Think of everything you’ve got
For you will still be here tomorrow
But your dreams may not
How can I try to explain?
When I do he turns away again
It’s always been the same
Same old story
From the moment I could talk
I was ordered to listen, now there’s a way
And I know that I have to go away
I know I have to go
It’s not time to make a change
Just sit down, take it slowly
You’re still young, that’s your fault
There’s so much you have to go through
Find a girl, settle down
If you want you can marry
Look at me, I am old
But I’m happy
All the times that I’ve cried
Keeping all the things I knew inside
It’s hard, but it’s harder to ignore it
If they were right I’d agree
But it’s them they know, not me
Now there’s a way
And I know that I have to go away
I know I have to go
Father and Son is perhaps the most famous song that talks about the relationship that a parent has with their child. This song paints a difficult picture of a Father wanting what’s best for their son, but the son interprets this as them being controlling. Ultimately, the son grows up to better understand the son. It is a beautiful song, and it would make a perfect pick for a son to say goodbye to his Dad for the last time.
There’s so much you have to go through
Find a girl, settle down,
If you want you can marry
Look at me, I am old, but I’m happy
The Living Years
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Every generation
Blames the one before
And all of their frustrations
Come beating on your door
I know that I’m a prisoner
To all my Father held so dear
I know that I’m a hostage
To all his hopes and fears
I just wish I could have told him in the living years
Oh, crumpled bits of paper
Filled with imperfect thought
Stilted conversations
I’m afraid that’s all we’ve got
You say you just don’t see it
He says it’s perfect sense
You just can’t get agreement
In this present tense
We all talk a different language
Talking in defence
Say it loud (say it loud), say it clear (oh say it clear)
You can listen as well as you hear
It’s too late (it’s too late) when we die (oh when we die)
To admit we don’t see eye to eye
So we open up a quarrel
Between the present and the past
We only sacrifice the future
It’s the bitterness that lasts
So don’t yield to the fortunes
You sometimes see as fate
It may have a new perspective
On a different day
And if you don’t give up, and don’t give in
You may just be okay
So say it loud, say it clear (oh say it clear)
You can listen as well as you hear
Because it’s too late, it’s too late (it’s too late)
When we die (oh, when we die)
To admit we don’t see eye to eye
I wasn’t there that morning
When my Father passed away
I didn’t get to tell him
All the things I had to say
I think I caught his spirit
Later that same year
I’m sure I heard his echo
In my baby’s new born tears
I just wish I could have told him in the living years
Say it loud, say it clear (oh say it clear)
You can listen as well as you hear
It’s too late (it’s too late) when we die (it’s too late when we die)
To admit we don’t see eye to eye
So say it, say it, say it loud (say it loud)
Say it clear (come on say it clear)
Say it loud
(Don’t give up, don’t give in and don’t look away ’til it’s too late)
Say it clear
Say it loud (say it loud, say it loud)
This song is one of the more melancholic choices on the list – it is a song written by a son in conversation with their father, who they wished they could see again. On a hopeful note, it describes all of the parts of the father that the son can see in his son – a beautiful message and one that reveals how parts of us live on in others.
I think I caught his spirit
Later that same year
I’m sure I heard his echo
In my baby’s new-born tears
I just wish I could have told him in the living years
Song For Dad
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Lately I’ve been noticin’
I say the same things he used to say
And I even find myself
Actin’ the very same way, mmm
I tap my fingers on the table to the rhythm in my soul
And I jingle the car keys when I’m ready to go
And when I look in the mirror he’s right there in my eyes
Starin’ back at me and I realize
The older I get the more I can see
How much he loved my mother and my brother and me
And he did the best that he could
And I only hope when I have my own family
That every day I see a little more of my father in me, yeah
There were times I thought he was bein’
Just a little bit hard on me
But now I understand he was makin’ me
Become the man he knew that I could be, mmm
In everything he ever did, he always did with love
And I’m proud today to say I’m his son
When somebody says I hope I get to meet your dad
I just smile and say you already have
The older I get the more I can see
How much he loved my mother and my brother and me
And he did the best that he could
And I only hope when I have my own family
That every day I see a little more of my father in me
He’s in my eyes my heart, my soul
My hands, my pride and when I feel alone
And I think I can’t go on, I hear him sayin’, “Son, you’ll be alright
Everything is gonna be alright”, yes it is
The older I get the more I can see
That he loved my mother and my brother and me
And he did the best that he could
And I only hope when I have my own family
That every day I see, oh, I hope I see
Ooh, I hope every day I see a little more of my father in me
Yeah, a little more of my father in me
I hope every day I see in me, in me, in me
I hope every day I see a little more of my father in me
Country songs are often played at funerals for our Dads, and this song couldn’t be more fitting. A letter from a son to their father, the tune is upbeat while the lyrics are thankful and considerate. If you’re looking for a less melancholic and celebratory song to play at dads funeral, then you should consider picking “Song For Dad.”
The older I get the more I can see
How much he loved my mother and my brother and me
And he did the best that he could
And I only hope when I have my own family
That every day I see a little more of my father in me, yeah
Hero
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There’s a hero
If you look inside your heart
You don’t have to be afraid
Of what you are
There’s an answer
If you reach into your soul
And the sorrow that you know
Will melt away
And then a hero comes along
With the strength to carry on
And you cast your fears aside
And you know you can survive
So when you feel like hope is gone
Look inside you and be strong
And you’ll finally see the truth
That a hero lies in you
It’s a long road
When you face the world alone
No one reaches out a hand
For you to hold
You can find love
If you search within yourself
And that emptiness you felt
Will disappear
And then a hero comes along
With the strength to carry on
And you cast your fears aside
And you know you can survive
So when you feel like hope is gone
Look inside you and be strong
And you’ll finally see the truth
That a hero lies in you, oh, oh
Lord knows
Dreams are hard to follow
But don’t let anyone
Tear them away, hey yeah
Hold on
There will be tomorrow
In time you’ll find the way
And then a hero comes along
With the strength to carry on
And you cast your fears aside
And you know you can survive
So when you feel like hope is gone
Look inside you and be strong
And you’ll finally see the truth
That a hero lies in you
That a hero lies in you
Mmm, that a hero lies in you
For many of us, our Dads are our heroes. They are there in good and bad times, and they’re always there to save the day and comfort us. If you think of your Dad as your hero, then why not choose a song to commemorate that at their funeral? Mariah Carey’s “Hero” is a great choice for daughters saying goodbye to their Fathers, and expresses the poignant impact that fathers have as the main male role model in our lives.
There’s a hero
If you look inside your heart
You don’t have to be afraid
Of what you are
There’s an answer
If you reach into your soul
And the sorrow that you know
Will melt away
My Hero
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Too alarmin’ now to talk about
Take your pictures down and shake it out
Truth or consequence, say it aloud
Use that evidence, race it around
There goes my hero
Watch him as he goes
There goes my hero
He’s ordinary
Don’t the best of them bleed it out
While the rest of them peter out?
Truth or consequence, say it aloud
Use that evidence, race it around
There goes my hero
Watch him as he goes
There goes my hero
He’s ordinary
Kudos, my hero
Leavin’ all the mess
You know my hero
The one that’s on
There goes my hero
Watch him as he goes
There goes my hero
He’s ordinary
There goes my hero
Watch him as he goes
There goes my hero
He’s ordinary
Another Hero song, this one perhaps more suited for sons saying goodbye to their Fathers. The Foo Fighters rock anthem is an ode to the heroes in our lives, and what better way to say goodbye to our fathers than with the line: “there goes my hero, watch him as he goes.” If your Dad was a rock fan, this song would be a fitting way to celebrate his life.
There goes my hero
Watch him as he goes
There goes my hero
He’s ordinary
Father and Daughter
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If you ever awake
In the mirror of a bad dream
And for a fraction of a second,
You can’t remember where you are
Just open your window
And follow your memories
Upstream
To the meadow in the mountain
Where we counted every falling star
I believe the light that shines on you
Will shine on you forever
(Forever)
And though I can’t guarantee there’s nothing scary
Hidin’ under your bed
I’m gonna
Stand guard
Like the postcard
Of the golden retriever
And never leave
‘Til I leave you
With a sweet dream in your head
I’m gonna watch you shine
Gonna watch you grow
Gonna paint a sign
So you always know
As long as one and one is two
Ooh ooh
There could never be a father
Love his daughter more than I love you
Trust your intuition
It’s just like going fishin’
You cast your line and
Hope you get a bite
But you don’t need to waste your time
Worryin’ about the marketplace
Trying to help the human race
Struggling to survive
It’s as harsh as night
I’m gonna watch you shine
Gonna watch you grow
Gonna paint a sign
So you always know
As long as one and one is two
Ooh ooh
There could never be a father
Love his daughter more than I love you
I’m gonna watch you shine
Gonna watch you grow
Gonna paint a sign
So you always know
As long as one and one is two
Ooh ooh
There could never be a father
Love his daughter more than I love you
Paul Simon wrote this song about his daughter – a message of love and compassion, it is a beautiful and calming song. For Daughters wanting a song to show their love for their fathers, they should consider choosing this lesser-known Paul Simon song to celebrate the father-daughter bond.
And for a fraction of a second,
You can’t remember where you are
Just open your window
And follow your memories
Upstream
To the meadow in the mountain
Where we counted every falling star
Country and Western music for Dad’s funeral
I Will Always Love You
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If I should stay
Well I would only be in your way
And so I’ll go, and yet I know
I’ll think of you each step of the way
And I will always love you
I will always love you
Bitter-sweet memories
That’s all I’m taking with me
Good-bye, please don’t cry
‘Cause we both know that I’m not
What you need
But I will always love you
I will always love you
And I hope life, will treat you kind
And I hope that you have all
That you ever dreamed of
Oh I do wish you joy
And I wish you happiness
But above all this
I wish you love
I love you
I will always love you
I, I will always, always love you
I will always love you
I will always love you
I will always love you
Dolly Parton’s I Will Always Love You is a country classic with a hopeful message. If chosen to play at a funeral, the song spreads the message that we will always remember and continue to love our fathers as long as we live. This makes the song an ideal choice for dad’s funeral.
Bitter-sweet memories
That’s all I’m taking with me
Good-bye, please don’t cry
‘Cause we both know that I’m not
What you need
Walkin After Midnight
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I go out walkin’ after midnight
Out in the moonlight
Just like we used to do, I’m always walkin’
After midnight, searchin’ for you (wa-wa-walking, wa-wa-walking)
I walk for miles along the highway
Well, that’s just my way
Of sayin’ I love you, I’m always walkin’
After midnight, searchin’ for you (wa-wa-walking, wa-wa-walking)
I stop to see a weepin’ willow
Cryin’ on his pillow
Maybe he’s cryin’ for me
And as the skies turn gloomy
Night winds whisper to me
I’m lonesome as I can be
I go out walkin’ after midnight
Out in the moonlight
Just hopin’ you may be somewhere a-walkin’
After midnight, searchin’ for me (Wa-wa-walking, wa-wa-walking)
I stop to see a weepin’ willow
Cryin’ on his pillow
Maybe he’s cryin’ for me
And as the skies turn gloomy
Night winds whisper to me
I’m lonesome as I can be
I go out walkin’ after midnight
Out in the moonlight
Just hopin’ you may be somewhere a-walkin’
After midnight, searchin’ for me (wa-wa-walking, wa-ooh-ah)
A classic 50s country song, “Walking After Midnight” describes the lengths we go to find our loved ones. Sad, but also soothing, if your Dad was a country fan then he might have appreciated you choosing this classic song to play at his funeral.
I go out walkin’ after midnight
Out in the moonlight
Just like we used to do, I’m always walkin’
After midnight, searchin’ for you
Love Sick Blues
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I got a feelin’ called the blues, oh Lord
Since my baby said goodbye
Lord, I don’t know what I’ll do
All I do is sit and sigh, oh Lord
That last long day, she said goodbye
Well Lord, I thought I would cry
She’ll do me, she’ll do you
She’s got that kind of lovin’
Lord, I love to hear her when she calls me sweet da-a-addy
Such a beautiful dream
I hate to think it’s all over
I’ve lost my heart it seems
I’ve grown so used to you somehow
Well, I’m nobody’s sugar daddy now
And I’m lo-o-onesome
I got the lovesick blues
Well, I’m in love, I’m in love with a beautiful gal
That’s what’s the matter with me
Well, I’m in love, I’m in love with a beautiful gal
But she don’t care about me
Lord, I tried and tried to keep her satisfied
But she just wouldn’t stay
So now that she is leavin’
This is all I can say
I got a feelin’ called the blues, oh Lord
Since my baby said goodbye
Lord, I don’t know what I’ll do
All I do is sit and sigh, oh Lord
That last long day she said goodbye
Well Lord, I thought I would cry
She’ll do me, she’ll do you
She’s got that kind of lovin’
Lord, I love to hear her when she calls me sweet da-a-addy
Such a beautiful dream
I hate to think it’s all over
I’ve lost my heart it seems
I’ve grown so used to you somehow
Lord, I’m nobody’s sugar daddy now
And I’m lo-o-onesome
I got the lovesick blues
Hank Williams is perhaps the most famous country musician to ever live. If your Dad was a big country fan, he might appreciate picking a song from this man’s catalog. “Lovesick Blues” is a mid-tempo love song, gentle, and a classic country number.
Bitter-sweet memories
That’s all I’m taking with me
Good-bye, please don’t cry
‘Cause we both know that I’m not
What you need
Always on my Mind
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Maybe I didn’t treat you
Quite as good as I should
Maybe I didn’t love you
Quite as often as I could
Little things I should have said and done
I never took the time
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
Maybe I didn’t hold you
All those lonely, lonely times
And I guess I never told you
I am so happy that you’re mine
If I made you feel second best
I’m so sorry I was blind
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
Tell me, tell me that your sweet love hasn’t died
Give me,
One more chance to keep you satisfied
Satisfied
Little things that I should have said and done
I never took the time
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
Tell me, tell me that your sweet love hasn’t died
Give me,
One more chance to keep you satisfied
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind
Maybe I didn’t treat you
Quite as good as I should
Maybe I didn’t love you
Quite as often as I could
Maybe I didn’t hold you
All those lonely lonely times
I guess I never told you
I am so happy that you’re mine
Always On My Mind has been a hit song for many acts over the years, and that’s because it is a simple love song that gets its message across: remembrance. Despite the numerous version in genres l, it is Elvis’s country version that made the song a hit, and it is his version that will always be our favourite. The lyrics talk about remembering a loved one who has left, a perfect message for a funeral. Elvis is a popular choice when it comes to a final goodbye song.
“I’m so happy that you’re mine
Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time
But you were always on my mind
You were always on my mind”
Uplifting Funeral songs for Dad
My Way
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Frank Sinatra’s music is a popular selection for men’s funerals, so if you’re looking for funeral music for your dad or your grandfather, then consider some of Sinatra’s other hits. This includes: “We’ll Be Together Again”, “I’m Walking Behind You”, and “I Could Have Danced All Night”.
And now the end is here
And so I face that final curtain
My friend I’ll make it clear
I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain
I’ve lived a life that’s full
I traveled each and every highway
And more, much more
I did it, I did it my way
Regrets, I’ve had a few
But then again too few to mention
I did what I had to do
I saw it through without exemption
I planned each charted course
Each careful step along the byway
And more, much, much more
I did it, I did it my way
Yes, there were times I’m sure you knew
When I bit off more than I could chew
But through it all, when there was doubt
I ate it up and spit it out
I faced it all and I stood tall and did it my way
For what is a man, what has he got?
If not himself then he has naught
Not to say the things that he truly feels
And not the words of someone who kneels
Let the record shows I took all the blows and did it my way
Frank Sinatra’s version of “My Way” is the U.K’s top choice for non-religious funeral music a recent survey showed that 1 in 25 funerals opt for Sinatra’s “My Way”. The song is an anthem about living life on your terms, in other words, living the life you wanted to live, and facing up to life’s ups and downs. Although the song starts with the rather sorrowful line ‘and now, the end is near, and I face the final curtain,’ and as the verses go on the lyrics become more and more triumphant – it is because of this that the song has become such a popular choice for funerals. In reality, the song is a celebration of life, and it is a good choice for those wanting to celebrate their fathers.
“I’ve loved, I’ve laughed and cried
I’ve had my fill, my share of losing
And now, as tears subside
I find it all so amusing
To think I did all that
And may I say, not in a shy way
Oh, no, oh, no, not me, I did it my way”
Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life
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Some things in life are bad
They can really make you mad
Other things just make you swear and curse
When you’re chewing on life’s gristle
Don’t grumble, give a whistle
And this’ll help things turn out for the best
And
Always look on the bright side of life
Always look on the light side of life
If life seems jolly rotten
There’s something you’ve forgotten
And that’s to laugh and smile and dance and sing
When you’re feeling in the dumps
Don’t be silly chumps
Just purse your lips and whistle, that’s the thing
And
Always look on the bright side of life
(Come on)
Always look on the right side of life
For life is quite absurd
And death’s the final word
You must always face the curtain with a bow
Forget about your sin
Give the audience a grin
Enjoy it, it’s your last chance anyhow
So always look on the bright side of death
A just before you draw your terminal breath
Life’s a piece of shit
When you look at it
Life’s a laugh and death’s a joke, it’s true
You’ll see it’s all a show
Keep ’em laughin’ as you go
Just remember that the last laugh is on you
And
Always look on the bright side of life
Always look on the right side of life
(C’mon Brian, cheer up)
Always look on the bright side of life
Always look on the bright side of life
Always look on the bright side of life
I mean, what have you got to lose?
You know, you come from nothing
You’re going back to nothing
What have you lost? Nothing
Always look on the right side of life
Nothing will come from nothing, ya know what they say
Cheer up ya old bugga c’mon give us a grin (Always look on the right side of life)
There ya are, see
It’s the end of the film
Incidentally this record’s available in the foyer (Always look on the right side of life)
Some of us got to live as well, you know
(Always look on the right side of life)
Who do you think pays for all this rubbish
(Always look on the right side of life)
They’re not gonna make their money back, you know
I told them, I said to him, Bernie, I said they’ll never make their money back
(Always look on the right side of life)
Who’d have thought that this Monty Python song would be one of the U.K.’s most popular funeral songs? This comedy classic has become a staple funeral song for Dads, but the message is clear, hopeful, and optimistic. It tells us to always look for the positives in life – and even on a sad day, good days will come again. If you want to celebrate your father, consider picking this classic.
Always look on the bright side of life
Always look on the light side of life
The Beatles – Two of Us
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I Dig a Pygmy by Charles Hawtrey and the Deaf Aids
Phase one, in which Doris gets her oats
Two of us riding nowhere
Spending someone’s hard-earned pay
You and me, Sunday driving
Not arriving, on our way back home
We’re on our way home
We’re on our way home
We’re going home
Two of us sending postcards
Writing letters on my wall
You and me burning matches
Lifting latches, on our way back home
We’re on our way home
We’re on our way home
We’re going home
You and I have memories
Longer than the road
That stretches out ahead
Two of us wearing raincoats
Standing solo in the sun
You and me chasing paper
Getting nowhere
On our way back home
We’re on our way home
We’re on our way home
We’re going home
You and I have memories
Longer than the road
That stretches out ahead
Two of us wearing raincoats
Standing solo in the sun
You and me, chasing paper
Getting nowhere
On our way back home
We’re on our way home
We’re on our way home
We’re going home
We’re going home
You better believe it
Goodbye
“Two Of Us” is an optimistic Beatles song about two people with memories “longer than the road that stretches out ahead.” Is there a better song for a child to remember their father? Paul McCartney and John Lennon’s lyrics are sweet and sincere, describing everyday day events, like walking ‘hand in hand, wearing raincoats.’ If you want to choose some Beatles funeral music to inspire happier moments of reflection, then this might be the song to choose for your Dad’s funeral.
“You and I have memories
Longer than the road
That stretches out ahead”
The Beatles – Here Comes The Sun
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Here comes the sun, doo-doo-doo-doo
Here comes the sun, and I say
It’s alright
Little darlin’, it’s been a long, cold, lonely winter
Little darlin’, it feels like years since it’s been here
Here comes the sun, doo-doo-doo-doo
Here comes the sun, and I say
It’s alright
Little darlin’, the smile’s returning to their faces
Little darlin’, it seems like years since it’s been here
Here comes the sun
Here comes the sun, and I say
It’s alright
Sun, sun, sun, here it comes
Sun, sun, sun, here it comes
Sun, sun, sun, here it comes
Sun, sun, sun, here it comes
Sun, sun, sun, here it comes
Little darlin’, I feel that ice is slowly melting
Little darlin’, it seems like years since it’s been clear
Here comes the sun, doo-doo-doo-doo
Here comes the sun, and I say
It’s alright
Here comes the sun, doo-doo-doo-doo
Here comes the sun
It’s alright
It’s alright
Another Beatles song, George Harrison’s “Here Comes The Sun” is a song about hope, a perfect choice for saying goodbye to our fathers. Optimistic, happy, and upbeat, the message of this song is clear: “it’s alright,” George repeats, a soothing message to all in attendance.
“Little darlin, the smile’s returning to their faces,
Little darlin, it seems like years since it’s been here,
Here comes the sun, and I say,
It’s alright”
Sentimental & sad Funeral songs for Dad
We’ll Meet Again
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Let’s say goodbye with a smile, dear
Just for a while dear we must part
Don’t let this parting upset you
I’ll not forget you, sweetheart
We’ll meet again
Don’t know where
Don’t know when
But I know we’ll meet again some sunny day
Keep smiling through
Just like you always do
‘Til the blue skies chase those dark clouds far away
And I will just say hello
To the folks that you know
Tell them you won’t be long
They’ll be happy to know
That as I saw you go
You were singing this song
We’ll meet again
Don’t know where
Don’t know when
But I know we’ll meet again some sunny day
And I will just say hello
To the folks that you know
Tell them you won’t be long
They’ll be happy to know
That as I saw you go
You were singing this song
We’ll meet again
Don’t know where
Don’t know when
But I know we’ll meet again some sunny day
Although not the most uplifting musically, the message here is what makes this song uplifting and joyous. Vera Lynn’s classic “We’ll Meet Again” has a simple message: somewhere, someplace, we will be reunited with our loved ones again. A hopeful message, this is a classic funeral song for Dad.
Let’s say goodbye with a smile, dear
Just for a while dear we must part
Don’t let this parting upset you
I’ll not forget you, sweetheart
What A Wonderful World
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I see trees of green
Red roses too
I see them bloom
For me and you
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
I see skies of blue
And clouds of white
The bright blessed day
The dark sacred night
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
The colors of the rainbow
So pretty in the sky
Are also on the faces
Of people going by
I see friends shaking hands
Saying how do you do
They’re really saying
I love you
I hear babies cry
I watch them grow
They’ll learn much more
Than I’ll ever know
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
Yes, I think to myself
What a wonderful world
Ooh, yes
Like Monty Python’s “Bright Side of Life”, this is another classic tune that tells us to notice the beautiful things in the world. Hopeful and optimistic, if you are looking to celebrate life on a sad day, then consider choosing Louis Armstrong’s fantastic “What A Wonderful World”.
I see trees of green
Red roses too
I see them bloom
For me and you
And I think to myself
What a wonderful world
Eva Cassidy – Over the Rainbow
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Somewhere over the rainbow
Way up high
In the land that I heard of once
Once in a lullaby
Somewhere over the rainbow
Skies are blue
And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true
Someday I’ll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops
That’s where you’ll find me
Someday I’ll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds are far behind me
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops
That’s where you’ll find me
Somewhere over the rainbow
Skies are blue
And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really come true
If happy little birds fly above the sky
Oh why can’t I?
“Over the Rainbow” was a song originally written for the film The Wizard of Oz. The film went on to become one of the most beloved films ever, and the song “Over the Rainbow”, sung by a young Judy Garland, has become timeless. However, it is Eva Cassidy’s version that is most often picked to be played at funerals. Sorrowful, and perhaps a little more melancholic than the film version, Eva Cassidy’s version is beautiful. It is the song’s lyrics that make it such a great pick for a funeral – many people have interpreted “Over the Rainbow” to be a song about the afterlife, the life waiting for us out of sight, and “over the rainbow.” If your father liked more sentimental music, then this would be a great pick.
“Somewhere over the rainbow, way up high
There’s a land that I heard of once in a lullaby
Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue
And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true”
Fleetwood Mac – Albatross
Many Dads were fans of the alternative rock scene of the 1970s, and sometimes it can be difficult to find a suitable song from this era that would fit a calm funeral. However, Peter Green’s Fleetwood Mac has one of the most gracious rock songs ever recorded. Fleetwood Mac’s Albatross is just about as calming as a piece of music could ever hope to achieve. Inspired by an Albatross cruising across the Atlantic, this piece of music is serene and thought-provoking. If you’re wanting to create a more contemplative and calming atmosphere at the funeral, then you should consider picking Fleetwood Mac’s Albatross.
Nat King Cole – Unforgettable
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Unforgettable
That’s what you are
Unforgettable
Though near or far
[Verse 1]
Like a song of love that clings to me
How the thought of you does things to me
Never before
Has someone been more…
[Chorus]
Unforgettable
In every way
And forever more
That’s how you’ll stay
[Verse 2]
That’s why, darling, it’s incredible
That someone so unforgettable
Thinks that I am
Unforgettable, too
Music from the 50s is famous for its ballads, and Nat King Cole may just be the “King” of them all. “Unforgettable” is a classic Nat King Cole ballad – slow, melancholic, and beautifully orchestrated in a mix of 50s Jazz and big band instrumentation. The song’s meaning is clear – it is concerned with remembrance, and a promise not to forget our loved ones. Is there a better message fit for a final goodbye? If you’re looking for a classy song to say goodbye to your dad, then this would be a fine pick.
“Unforgettable
In every way
And forever more
That’s how you’ll stay.”
John Martyn – Small Hours
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You’ve been taking your time and you’ve been living on solid air
You’ve been walking the line and you’ve been living on solid air
Don’t know what’s going ’round inside
And I can tell you that it’s hard to hide when you’re living on solid air
You’ve been painting the blues and you’ve been looking through solid air
You’ve been seeing it through and you’ve been looking through solid air
Don’t know what’s going ’round in your mind
And I can tell you don’t like what you find when you’re moving through solid air
I know you, I love you
And I can be your friend, I can follow you anywhere
Even through solid air
You’ve been stoning it cold, you’ve been living on solid air
You’ve been finding it cold, you’ve been living on solid air
I don’t know what’s going on inside
I can tell you that it’s hard to hide when you’re living on solid air
You’ve been getting too deep, you’ve been living on solid air
You’ve been missing your sleep and you’ve been moving through solid air
I don’t know what’s going on in your mind
But I know you don’t like what you find when you’re moving through solid air
You’ve been walking your line, you’ve been walking on solid air
You’ve been taking your time but you’ve been walking on solid air
Don’t know what’s going on inside
But I can tell you that it’s hard to hide when you’re living on solid air
Another pick from the 1970s, this John Martyn track is a beautiful piece of music and would be ideal for Dads who were big fans of folk music. Minimal and thoughtful, this track is primarily reverb-laden electric guitar with subtle electronic instrumentation. It is a very quiet track, ideal for a funeral procession. This track would be another perfect pick for someone who isn’t wanting to choose music that is too sad but is wanting to be more contemplative and relaxing.
Gospel music for Dad’s funeral
Take My Hand, Precious Lord
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Precious Lord, take my hand
Lead me on, let me stand
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn
Through the storm, through the night
Lead me on through the light
Take my hand, precious Lord
And lead me home
When my way grows dreary
Precious Lord, lead me near
When my life is almost gone
At the river I will stand
Guide my feet, hold my hand
Take my hand, precious Lord
And lead me home
The gospel music created in North America at the start of the century has made many songs become ‘new traditional’ music for funerals. One of these is “Take My Hand, Precious Lord.” This song is a comforting hymn that talks about passing into the afterlife and being guided by God. We think that Mahalia Jackson’s version is the best, with her beautiful and sorrowful voice leading the piece.
Peace In The Valley
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Oh well, I’m tired and so weary
But I must go alone
Till the Lord comes and calls me away, oh yes.
Well the morning’s so bright
And the lamb is the light
And the night, night is as black as the sea, oh yes.
There will be peace in the valley for me, some day.
There will be peace in the valley for me, oh Lord I pray.
There’ll be no sadness, no sorrow, No trouble I see
There will be peace in the valley for me, oh yes.
Well the bear will be gentle,
And the wolves will be tame.
And the lion shall lay down by the lamb, oh yes.
And the beasts from the wild
Shall be lit by a child
And I’ll be changed, changed from this creature that I am, oh yes.
There will be peace in the valley for me, some day.
There will be peace in the. valley for me, oh Lord I pray.
There’ll be no sadness, no sorrow, No trouble I see
There will be peace in the valley for me, oh yes.
There’ll be no sadness, no sorrow, No trouble I see
There will be peace in the valley for me.
For me.
Another classic gospel tune, the lyrics of this song talk of the peace and happiness felt after passing, a soothing message for loved ones to hear at a funeral. We think Mahalia’s version is another stunning interpretation, and it casts a hopeful and calming atmosphere, a quietly uplifting song.
“There’ll be no sadness, no sorrow
Oh my Lord, no trouble, trouble I see
There will be peace in the valley for me, for me”
Amazing Grace
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Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now am found
Was blind, but now can see
‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed
Through many dangers, toils and snares
We have already come
‘Twas grace hath brought me safe thus far
And grace will lead us home
This track might not need an introduction – Amazing Grace is perhaps the most famous gospel song ever recorded, and there are thousands of fantastic interpretations. It is beloved because of its beautiful melody and hopeful lyrics.
“When we’ve been here ten thousand years
Bright, shining as the sun
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we first begun”
Lead Me Gently Home
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Oh lead me gently home father lead me gently home
When life’s toils are ended and parting days have come
Sin no more will tempt me there from Thee I’ll roam
If you’ll only lead me father lead me gently home
Oh lead me gently home father lead me gently home
If I fall upon the wayside lead me gently home
Lead me gently home father lead me gently home
If life’s darkest hours father when my troubles come
Keep my feet from wandering there from Thee I’ll roam
Lest I fall upon the wayside lead me gently home
Oh lead me gently home
This gospel funeral song has a comforting message, reminding us that we are going “home” when we pass into the afterlife. Describing being led by the hand, just as a child is led by their parents, this song paints a gentle picture of God as a caring father. We think that Johnny Cash’s country/gospel rendition is a standout and fitting style for a funeral.
“Oh lead me gently home father lead me gently home
When life’s toils are ended and parting days have come
Sin no more will tempt me there from Thee I’ll roam
If you’ll only lead me father lead me gently home”
I’ll Fly Away
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Some glad morning when this life is over
I’ll fly away
To a land where joy shall never end
I’ll, I’ll fly away
I’ll fly away, oh, glory
I’ll fly away
When I die, Hallelujah, bye and bye
I’ll fly away
A gospel classic, I’ll Fly Away is a popular choice for funerals. It is an upbeat, positive, and hopeful song that describes passing as a thing of freedom, and the ability to “fly away” from this land to find peace. Hank Williams’ version is a classic and is a great choice for traditional gospel funeral music that is a little more upbeat.
Then I shall bow, in humble adoration,
And then proclaim, my God, how great Thou art”
How Great Thou Art
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Oh Lord, my God
When I, in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder
Thy power throughout the universe displayed
Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee
How great Thou art, how great Thou art
Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee
How great Thou art, how great Thou art
And when I think that God, His Son not sparing
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in
That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing
He bled and died to take away my sin
Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee
How great Thou art, how great Thou art
Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee
How great Thou art, how great Thou art
When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart
Then I shall bow, in humble adoration
And then proclaim, my God, how great Thou art
Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee
How great Thou art, how great Thou art
Then sings my soul, my Savior God to Thee
How great Thou art, how great Thou art
How great Thou art, how great Thou art
Elvis released How Great Thou Art in 1967, and the album is a mix between Gospel and Country music – slow, tender, and soothing. It is neither sad nor happy, but contemplative and calming – this is an excellent message for children to give their mum or dad, and a reflective mood to set the tone of the procession. We think the song How Great Thou Art is well-suited to a funeral, it was originally a hymn and is written from the perspective of someone ascending to heaven – it was voted Britain’s favourite hymn in 2000. It talks about saying goodbye to this world and moving on to the next. If your loved one was religious as well as being an Elvis fan, this might be a good pick to show both sides of their personality.
“When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation,
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart,
Then I shall bow, in humble adoration,
And then proclaim, my God, how great Thou art”