Music plays an important role in our lives. It also plays an important role in our deaths. Often a song is able to express through music and lyric what none of us can with our own words.
Most funeral songs are picked to either express the thoughts of the living concerning the deceased or because the song was a favorite of the deceased. Perhaps a certain song captures the spirit of the departed.
I am sure that every generation has its most popular picks for funerals as new songs are written and people’s music tastes change. However, some of the more popular funeral choices made today may surprise you. According to Co-operative Funeralcare, some of the most popular songs played at funeral services in England are:
- “My Way” by Frank Sinatra (how autonomous of us)
- “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC (imagine the looks on some people’s faces as this one is played)
- “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen (I assume this is an attempt to bring humor to the moment)
Of course, there are more traditional songs that are popular as well. What do you think? Are the picks above good ones? What would you like played at your funeral?
Theologically Speaking 
I think that we play those songs b/c we want to go out with at least a little humor. Many people enjoy a little humor in death b/c it helps people cope and remember the living as alive.
I’ve been planning to write letters to my wife in case I pass and, I suppose, some for my children, too. It would be nice to communicate beyond the grave.
As for a song choice, if I had to choose, I’d probably do something from Rich Mullin’s retinue. He could be a good tear jerker — and I love drama way more than comedy. 😛
If I had to pick songs for myself, I would probably go with a classic hymn like “When I Survey” or “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”. There is something special about the classic hymns.
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The music is there to solace the living. Since I will not be among the living, I’ll let those still wearing the moral flesh decide.
When I die, a few of songs I want played at my funeral are “Angels Among Us”, “Go Rest High on That Mountain”, and “One Sweet Day”; the first one, because I was taught at a young age that angels really do exist, the second one, because one day, just like the LORD, my spirit will ascend from this Earth to Heaven to be with those of my family and friends; and the third, because just as it says in the song’s chorus, “Eventually, we’ll be together one sweet day”; and personally, I believe that will happen.
Eric:
Thanks for sharing. I am not sure if I know those songs. I am going to have to look them up.