The Best Celebration Of Life Songs For Any Ceremony

Want to find the right songs quickly for your Celebration of Life Ceremony? We've compiled our list of the most popular memorial songs for every song category.

Best Traditional Funeral Song

"Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen

This popular song needs no introduction. With its uplifting chorus and reflective lyrics, this great song has been covered by many artists and is frequently chosen for its emotional depth and spiritual undertones.

Most Heartfelt Celebration Song

"Somewhere Over the Rainbow" by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole

There won't be a dry eye in the room with this heartfelt tribute. This gentle, ukulele accompanied version of the classic song offers a sense of peace and optimism, evoking thoughts of a better place beyond the rainbow.

Most Uplifting Funeral Song

"What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong

This happy funeral song is renowned for its positive and hopeful message, appreciating life's beauty, to celebrate the life of someone with a tender spirit.

Best Song For A Mother

"Wind Beneath My Wings" by Bette Midler

Another classic song that will evoke sweet memories and life's journey. Paying tribute to someone who has been a guiding force in the lives of others, this song's lyrics express deep gratitude and remembrance.

Best Song For A Father

"Lean on Me" by Bill Withers

Celebrate the life of a strong paternal figure who was a source of strength and support to everyone around him.

Best Song For A Child

"Tears in Heaven" By Eric Clapton

Emotive vocals and tender lyrics inspired by the tragic death of Clapton's own child. This a beautiful tribute to the memory of a child.

Best Modern Funeral Song 

"Photograph" by Ed Sheeran

With its gentle melody and lyrics about holding onto memories, this song is perfect for a slideshow of cherished moments.

Best Christian Song

"Amazing Grace" by Carrie Underwood

A timeless classic for both funerals and celebration ceremonies, its heartfelt lyrics about redemption and hope are a source of comfort.

Best Song For A Celebration of Life Slide Show 

"My Way" by Frank Sinatra

Ideal for celebrating a life lived fully and on one's own terms, this classic song adds a touch of grandeur and reflection.

Best Country Song For A Memorial 

"When I Get Where I'm Going" by Brad Paisley  

A hopeful look at the afterlife and eternal journey, this song is about reuniting with loved ones and finding peace.

Despite all the popular funeral songs we've mentioned, you might still be struggling to choose the perfect song(s) to celebrate your loved one's life.

Sometimes, the right song is simply one that feels right to you, capturing an indefinable essence of the person. Trust your instincts and choose a song that you feel emotionally connected to.

To help you find that fitting tribute of a song for a life well lived, ask yourself these important questions below:

What was their taste in music?

You might want to choose songs based on your love one's favorite songs. Did they like an uplifting melody or maybe more heartfelt songs? Make a list of their favorite songs and music groups.

The power of lyrics

Another way to choose songs for a life service is to pay attention to their lyrics and how they resonate with the person’s life story or your feelings towards them.

Emotional tone of the ceremony

Go back to the type of tone and mood you want to set for the memorial service. If you want an upbeat mood, choose an uplifting song celebrating life. For a more traditional service, you might choose a heartfelt song.

Memories and Significance

Think about songs that might have been significant in your loved one's life. Maybe it was their wedding song, a song they performed, or one that was important during a key life event.

Consider choosing a song that bring back positive memories or a sense of nostalgia among friends and family.