30 Funeral Songs For Grandpa
It can be a difficult decision when it comes to choosing the perfect piece of music to pay respect to our grandfathers. Our musical choices are a unique opportunity to showcase their personalities and musical tastes – music is often a big part of our grandfathers’ lives, and so it is only natural that their favourite music should be played as we say our final goodbyes.
Funeral songs for Grandpa List
From The 1940s
- I’ll be Seeing You
- White Cliffs of Dover
- Dream a Little Dream of Me
- Only Forever
- Moonlight Serenade
- We’ll Meet Again
- What A Wonderful World
From The 1950s
- All I Have To Do is Dream
- Nat King Cole- Unforgettable
- Blueberry Hill
- Always
- Magic Moments
- My Way
- Walkin After Midnight
From The 1960s
- Mr. Tambourine Man
- Everybody’s Talkin’
- The Beatles – Two of Us
- The Beatles – Here Comes The Sun
- Father and Son
- Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life
- A Whiter Shade Of Pale
- So Glad
- Eva Cassidy – Over the Rainbow
- Fleetwood Mac – Albatross
Elvis Song’s
- Memories
- Always on my Mind
- I’ll Remember You
- How Great Thou Art
- Elvis Presley – You’ll Never Walk Alone
- Elvis Presley, Danny Boy
1940s Funeral songs for Grandad
I’ll Be Seeing You
I’ll be seeing you
In all the old familiar places
That this heart of mine embraces
All day through
In that small cafe
The park across the way
The children’s carousel
The chestnut trees
The wishing well
I’ll be seeing you
In every lovely summer’s day
In everything that’s light and gay
I’ll always think of you that way
I’ll find you in the morning sun
And when the night is new
I’ll be looking at the moon
But I’ll be seeing you
I’ll be seeing you
In every lovely summer’s day
In everything that’s light and gay
I’ll always think of you that way
I’ll find you in the morning sun
And when the night is new
I’ll be looking at the moon
But I’ll be seeing you
Billie Holiday was one of the biggest artists of the 1940s and was known for her ballads. I’ll Be Seeing You was one of her best – a calming and hopeful song about being reunited with a loved one, this song would be a good choice to play at a grandad’s funeral.
I’ll be seeing you
In all the old familiar places
That this heart of mine embraces
All day through
White Cliffs of Dover
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There’ll be bluebirds over
The white cliffs of Dover
Tomorrow, just you wait and see
There’ll be love and laughter
And peace ever after
Tomorrow, when the world is free
The shepherd will tend his sheep
The valley will bloom again
And Jimmy will go to sleep
In his own little room again
There’ll be bluebirds over
The white cliffs of Dover
Tomorrow, just you wait and see
The shepherd will tend his sheep
The valley will bloom again
And Jimmy will go to sleep
In his own little room again
There’ll be bluebirds over
The white cliffs of Dover
Tomorrow, just you wait and see
Vera Lynn was best known for her song “We’ll meet again”, a classic in the second world war. However, the singer continued to have great success in the 1940s, and this track is a standout. White Cliffs Of Dover is a hopeful message, describing a beautiful future. If you want a song that is positive about the future, then this would be a great choice.
There’ll be bluebirds over
The white cliffs of Dover
Tomorrow, just you wait and see
There’ll be love and laughter
Dream a Little Dream of Me
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Stars shining bright above you
Night breezes seem to whisper “I love you”
Birds singin’ in the sycamore trees
Dream a little dream of me
Say “Night-ie night” and kiss me
Just hold me tight and tell me you’ll miss me
While I’m alone and blue as can be
Dream a little dream of me
Stars fading but I linger on, dear
Still craving your kiss
I’m longing to linger ’til dawn, dear
Just saying this
Sweet dreams ’til sunbeams find you
Sweet dreams that leave all worries behind you
But in your dreams, whatever they be
Dream a little dream of me
Stars fading but I linger on, dear
Still craving your kiss
I’m longing to linger ’til dawn, dear
Just saying this
Sweet dreams ’til sunbeams find you
Sweet dreams that leave all worries behind you
But in your dreams, whatever they be
Dream a little dream of me
Dream a little dream of me
Dream a little dream of me
Doris Day was another icon of the 1940s, and her song Dream A Little Dream of Me has become a popular funeral song. A love ballad, this song talks about how we think about our loved ones, and dream about them too. This is a great message for a funeral, and a fitting way to say goodbye to Grandad.
Stars shining bright above you
Night breezes seem to whisper “I love you”
Birds singing in the sycamore tree
Dream a little dream of me
Only Forever
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Do I want to be with you
As the years come and go?
Only forever
If you care to know
Would I grant all your wishes
And be proud of the task
Only forever
If someone should ask
How long would it take me
To be near if you beckon?
Off hand I would figure
Less than a second
Do you think I’ll remember
How you looked when you smile?
Only forever
That’s puttin’ it mild
How long would it take me
To be near if you beckon?
Off hand I would figure
Less than a second
Do you think I’ll remember
How you looked when you smile?
Only forever
That’s puttin’ it mild
Another 40s ballad, this time we hear a song from one of the original crooners. Bing Crosby might be best known now for his Christmas songs, but he was one of the most successful stars of the 1940s. “Only Forever” is a song about endurance and our commitment to our loved ones. Is there a better message for a funeral? This calming song is a great pick for Grandads funeral.
Do I want to be with you
As the years come and go?
Only forever
If you care to know
Moonlight Serenade
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I stand at your gate and the song that I sing is of moonlight
I stand and I wait for the touch of your hand in the June night
The roses are sighing a moonlight serenade
The stars are a glow and tonight how their light sets me dreaming
My love, do you know that your eyes are like stars brightly beaming?
I bring you and sing you a moonlight serenade
Let us stray till break of day in love’s valley of dreams
Just you and I a summer sky, a heavenly breeze kissing the trees
So don’t let me wait come to me tenderly in the June night
I stand at your gate and I sing you a song in the moonlight
A love song, my darling, a moonlight serenade
We can stay, till break of day
Big Band music was at its peak in the 1940s, and Glenn Miller was one of the most popular band leaders. These brass ballads were used for slow dancing, known for their bittersweet and romantic air, a mix of positive and mellow emotions. Today, they are played with a feeling of nostalgia. A beautiful song, if your Grandad loved big band music then you should consider playing this track at his funeral.
The stars are a glow and tonight how their light sets me dreaming
My love, do you know that your eyes are like stars brightly beaming?
I bring you and sing you a moonlight serenade
We’ll Meet Again
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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
Till the blue skies drive the dark clouds far away
So will you please say “Hello”
To the folks that I know
Tell them I won’t be long
They’ll be happy to know
That as you saw me go
I was 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
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
Drive the dark clouds far away
So will you please say Hello
To the folks that I know.
Tell them I won’t be long.
They’ll be happy to know
That as you saw me go,
I was singin’ this song.
We’ll meet again,
Don’t know where,
Don’t know when
But I know we’ll meet again some sunny day
Vera Lynn’s most famous song, “We’ll meet again” became the soundtrack to the wartime generation. The song has a simple and sincere message: somewhere, someplace, we will be reunited with our loved ones again. This hopeful tune has made it a classic funeral song for the older generation.
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
Louis Armstrong’s most famous song tells us to look at and celebrate life. The lyrics are simple, but they create a strong and hopeful message. 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
Funeral songs for Grandad – from the 1950s
All I Have To Do Is Dream
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Dream, dream, dream, dream
Dream, dream, dream, dream
When I want you in my arms
When I want you and all your charms
Whenever I want you, all I have to do is
Dream, dream, dream, dream
When I feel blue in the night
And I need you to hold me tight
Whenever I want you, all I have to do is
Dream
I can make you mine, taste your lips of wine
Anytime night or day
Only trouble is, gee whiz
I’m dreamin’ my life away
I need you so that I could die
I love you so and that is why
Whenever I want you, all I have to do is
Dream, dream, dream, dream
Dream
I can make you mine, taste your lips of wine
Anytime night or day
Only trouble is, gee whiz
I’m dreamin’ my life away
I need you so that I could die
I love you so and that is why
Whenever I want you, all I have to do is
Dream, dream, dream, dream
Dream, dream, dream, dream
The Everly Brothers were one of the most successful musical acts of the 1950s. Known for their luscious harmonies, they were the kings of sentimental ballads. Sweet, happy and nostalgic, if you’re wanting a song that is more upbeat and positive to play at your Grandad’s funeral, consider this classic.
Dream, dream, dream, dream
Dream, dream, dream, dream
When I want you in my arms
When I want you and all your charms
Whenever I want you, all I have to do is
Dream, dream, dream, dream
Nat King Cole – Unforgettable
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“Unforgettable
Unforgettable
That’s what you are
Unforgettable
Tho’ near or far.
Like a song of love
That clings to me
How the thought of you
Does things to me
Never before
Has someone been more
Unforgettable
In every way
And forever more
That’s how you’ll stay.
That’s why, darling
It’s incredible
That someone so unforgettable
Thinks that I am
Unforgettable, too.
Unforgettable
In every way
And forever more
That’s how you’ll stay.
That’s why, darling
It’s incredible
That someone so unforgettable
Thinks that I am
Unforgettable, too”.
Slow, melancholic, and beautifully orchestrated in a mix of 50s Jazz and big band instrumentation, Nat King Cole has never sounded so good as he does on the song “Unforgettable.” The song makes a promise not to forget our loved ones, a message that we would all like to share as we say goodbye to our Grandfathers.
“Unforgettable
In every way
And forever more
That’s how you’ll stay.”
Blueberry Hill
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I found my thrill on Blueberry Hill
On Blueberry Hill, when I found you
The moon stood still on Blueberry Hill
And lingered until my dreams came true
The wind in the willow played
Love’s sweet melody
But all of those vows you made
Were never to be
Though we’re apart, you’re part of me still
For you were my thrill on Blueberry Hill
The wind in the willow played
Love’s sweet melody
But all of those vows we made
Were never to be
Though we’re apart, you’re part of me still
For you were my thrill on Blueberry Hill
If you’re wanting a more upbeat number to play at your Grandad’s funeral, you should try Fats Domino’s Blueberry hill. This ballad talks about undying love, one that continues to blossom year after year, ‘“and though we’re apart, you’re part of me still.”
Though we’re apart
You’re part of me still
For you were my thrill
On Blueberry Hill
Always
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I’ll be loving you always
With a love that’s true always
When the things you’ve planned
Need a helping hand
I will understand always
Always
Days may not be fair always
That’s when I’ll be there, always
Not for just an hour
Not for just a day
Not for just a year
But always
I’ll be loving you, oh always
With a love that’s true always
When the things you’ve planned
Need a helping hand
I will understand always
Always
Days may not be fair always
That’s when I’ll be there always
Not for just an hour
Not for just a day
Not for just a year
But always
Not for just an hour
Not for just a day
Not for just a year
But always
Ella Fitzgerald’s “Always” is a song about enduring love, making it a perfect song for a funeral. Romantic, sweet, and hopeful, choose this song and send the message that you’ll always remember your Grandad.
I’ll be loving you always
With a love that’s true always
When the things you’ve planned
Need a helping hand
I will understand always
Always
Magic Moments
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Magic moments, when two hearts are carin’
Magic moments, memories we’ve been sharing
I’ll never forget the moment we kissed
The night of the hay ride
The way that we hugged to try to keep warm
While takin’ a sleigh ride
Magic moments, memories we’ve been sharin’
Magic moments, when two hearts are carin’
Time can’t erase the memory of
These magic moments filled with love
The telephone call that tied up the line
For hours and hours
The Saturday dance I got up the nerve
To send you some flowers
Magic moments, memories we’ve been sharin’
Magic moments, when two hearts are carin’
Time can’t erase the memory of
These magic moments filled with love
The way that we cheered whenever our team
Was scoring a touchdown
The time that the floor fell out of my car
When I put the clutch down
The penny arcade, the games that we played
The fun and the prizes
The Halloween hop when everyone came
In funny disguises
Magic moments filled with love
Not everyone wants a sad and melancholic song to be played at their funeral. Why not try something more upbeat and positive? This tune by Perry Como is a beautiful track with a great message on memories and remembering the good times in life.
Magic moments, memories we’ve been sharin’
Magic moments, when two hearts are carin’
Time can’t erase the memory of
These magic moments filled with love
My Way
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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
“My Way” has become a classic funeral song, and it is one of the most popular choices for funerals of both men and women. The song is a celebration of life, and living it the way you always wanted to live. If you want to celebrate your Grandad’s successes, then consider picking Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.”
“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”
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)
Our Grandfathers would have lived in the generation when Country music was in its prime, and Patsy Cline was an icon from that generation. “Walking After Midnight” describes the lengths we go to find our loved ones. Sad, but also soothing, this is a beautiful song that shows a message of devotion, perfect for a 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
Funeral songs for Grandad – from the 1960s
Mr. Tambourine Man
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Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come following you
Though I know that evening’s empire has returned into sand
Vanished from my hand
Left me blindly here to stand, but still not sleeping
My weariness amazes me, I’m branded on my feet
I have no one to meet
And the ancient empty street’s too dead for dreaming
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come following you
Take me on a trip upon your magic swirling ship
My senses have been stripped
My hands can’t feel to grip
My toes too numb to step
Wait only for my boot heels to be wandering
I’m ready to go anywhere, I’m ready for to fade
Into my own parade
Cast your dancing spell my way, I promise to go under it
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come following you
Though you might hear laughing, spinning, swinging madly across the sun
It’s not aimed at anyone
It’s just escaping on the run
And but for the sky there are no fences facing
And if you hear vague traces of skipping reels of rhyme
To your tambourine in time
It’s just a ragged clown behind
I wouldn’t pay it any mind
It’s just a shadow you’re seeing that he’s chasing
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come following you
And take me disappearing through the smoke rings of my mind
Down the foggy ruins of time
Far past the frozen leaves
The haunted frightened trees
Out to the windy beach
Far from the twisted reach of crazy sorrow
Yes, to dance beneath the diamond sky
With one hand waving free
Silhouetted by the sea
Circled by the circus sands
With all memory and fate
Driven deep beneath the waves
Let me forget about today until tomorrow
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come following you
Bob Dylan is an icon of the 1960s, and Mr. Tambourine Man is one of his most famous songs. However, with its kaleidoscopic lyrics, not many people can find the meaning of this song. The lyrics circle and go on like a dream, both happy and sad, bright but sorrowful, this Dylan song has become a popular choice for Dylan fans to play at their funerals.
Though you might hear laughing,
spinning, swinging madly across the sun
It’s not aimed at anyoneIt’s just escaping on the run
Everybody’s Talkin’
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[Verse]
Everybody’s talkin’ at me
I don’t hear a word they’re sayin’
Only the echoes of my mind
People stoppin’, starin’
I can’t see their faces
Only the shadows of their eyes
[Chorus]
I’m going where the sun keeps shinin’
Through the pouring rain
Going where the weather suits my clothes
Banking off of the northeast winds
Sailing on a summer breeze
And skipping over the ocean like a stone
[Verse]
Everybody’s talkin’ at me
I don’t hear a word they’re sayin’
Only the echoes of my mind
People stoppin’, starin’
I can’t see their faces
Only the shadows of their eyes
[Chorus]
I’m going where the sun keeps shinin’
Through the pouring rain
Going where the weather suits my clothes
Banking off of the northeast winds
Sailing on a summer breeze
And skipping over the ocean like a stone
One of the biggest hits of the 60s, this song is a gentle and calming number by the great Harry Nilsson. The lyrics imagine a better place across the sea, “where the sun keeps shining” – some could take this to mean a metaphor for heaven. Either way, this song is about finding freedom.
I’m going where the sun keeps shinin’
Through the pouring rain
Going where the weather suits my clothes
Banking off of the northeast winds
Sailing on a summer breeze
And skipping over the ocean like a stone
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
You can’t talk about the 60s without mentioning the Beatles. “Two of us” is a lesser-known song of the fab-four’s, but it a fantastic and uplifting song that tells the story of best friends. Were you and your Grandad close? Did you have a lot of adventures? If so, then “Two of us” might be the perfect song to capture that spirit.
“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
Perhaps one of the most known Beatles songs, “Here Comes The Sun” has become a popular pick for funerals. The song is hopeful about both endings and the future, it tells us that bad days end and good days come again – a perfect message for a funeral.
“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”
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
Why think of everything you’ve got
For you will still be here tomorrow
But your dreams may not
[Verse 2: Son]
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
[Guitar Solo]
[Verse 3: Father & (Son)]
It’s not time to make a change (Away, away, away)
Just sit down, take it slowly
You’re still young, that’s your fault (I know)
There’s so much you have to go through (I have to make this decision)
Find a girl, settle down (Alone)
If you want you can marry
Look at me (No)
I am old, but I’m happy
[Verse 4: Son & (Father)]
All the times that I’ve cried (Stay, stay, stay)
Keeping all the things I knew inside
It’s hard
But it’s harder to ignore it (Why must you go)
If they were right, I’d agree (And make this decision)
But it’s them they know, not me (Alone)
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, but this can also relate to a grandparent. The song describes the difficulties in life that children go through with their guardians, often feeling like they aren’t being listened to. But by the end of the song, the singer grows old and comes to understand their guardians. Was your Grandad a father-figure? Then consider picking this song to play at his funeral.
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
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)
This Monty Python classic has become a popular choice for funerals. Although written as a comedy song, the message is sincere. The song teaches us to be optimistic in life, and to look for the positives even in the worst of situations.
Always look on the bright side of life
Always look on the light side of life
A Whiter Shade Of Pale
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We skipped the light fandango
Turned cartwheels ‘cross the floor
I was feeling kinda seasick
The crowd called out for more
The room was humming harder
As the ceiling flew away
When we called out for another drink
The waiter brought a tray
And so it was that later
As the miller told his tale
That her face, at first just ghostly
Turned a whiter shade of pale
She said “there is no reason”
And the truth is plain to see
But I wandered through my playing cards
Would not let her be
One of sixteen vestal virgins
Who were leaving for the coast
And although my eyes were open
They might have just as well’ve been closed
And so it was that later
As the miller told his tale
That her face, at first just ghostly
Turned a whiter shade of pale
And so it was that later
A Whiter Shade of Pale’s organ is one of the most recognisable sounds of the 60s, and it would be a great pick for somebody wanting to combine traditional church music with the pop music of your Grandad’s era.
We skipped the light fandango
Turned cartwheels ‘cross the floor
I was feeling kinda seasick
The crowd called out for more
Look at me, I am old, but I’m happy
So Glad
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When you first came round I was sad
My head hung down I felt really bad
Now I’m glad, glad about the good times that we’ve had
Walked in the park
Kissed in the dark
Leaves burned just like just like a spark
Now I’m glad
Glad about the good times that we’ve had
You went away I cried night and day
For what you done I had to pay
Left me so blue I don’t know
Where to go or what to do
Please come back and let the sun shine through
Sun passed behind a cloud
I felt so proud
We walk down the street people smile that we meet
And I’m glad glad about the good times that we’ve had
You said I was the best man that you’ve ever had oh!
Now I’m glad oh so glad
A lesser known song on this list, Captain Beefheart’s So Glad is an ode to memory. In the song, the lyrics talk about how grateful we should be to share memories with the loved ones in our lives. For this reason, Its a great pick for a funeral,
I felt so proud
We walk down the street people smile that we meet
And I’m glad, glad about the good times that we’ve had
Eva Cassidy – Over the Rainbow
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When you first came round I was sad
My head hung down I felt really bad
Now I’m glad, glad about the good times that we’ve had
Walked in the park
Kissed in the dark
Leaves burned just like just like a spark
Now I’m glad
Glad about the good times that we’ve had
You went away I cried night and day
For what you done I had to pay
Left me so blue I don’t know
Where to go or what to do
Please come back and let the sun shine through
Sun passed behind a cloud
I felt so proud
We walk down the street people smile that we meet
And I’m glad glad about the good times that we’ve had
You said I was the best man that you’ve ever had oh!
Now I’m glad oh so glad
“Over The Rainbow” is another optimistic and hopeful song that talks about the beauty of life. “Way up high” is a better land, somewhere where all are dreams made off. It’s unclear if the writer was talking about heaven, but that is the meaning that many people now think of when they listen to the song.
“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
Albatross was an unlikely hit in the 1960s, the calming soft-rock number caught the attention of the public for its almost serene quality. Today, we might even call this song ambient-rock, either way, it has become a popular song for funerals and it a great way to set the calming mood of the procession.
Elvis songs for Grandad’s funeral
Memories
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Memories, pressed between the pages of my mind
Memories, sweetened through the ages just like wine
Quiet thought come floating down
And settle softly to the ground
Like golden autumn leaves around my feet
I touched them and they burst apart with sweet memories
Sweet memories
Of holding hands and red bouquets
And twilight trimmed in purple haze
And laughing eyes and simple ways
And quiet nights and gentle days with you
Memories, pressed between the pages of my mind
Memories, sweetened through the ages just like wine
Memories, memories
Of holding hands and red bouquets
And twilight trimmed in purple haze
And laughing eyes and simple ways
And quiet nights and gentle days with you
Memories, pressed between the pages of my mind
Memories, sweetened through the ages just like wine
Memories, memories, sweet memories
Memories, memories
It would have been difficult to find someone alive in the 50s and 60s who wasn’t an Elvis fan. He become the King for a reason, because people just couldn’t get enough of his beautiful voice. “Memories” sees the sweeter side of Elvis, the song is about looking back and reminiscing on life, and has made it a popular funeral song.
“Memories, pressed between the pages of my mind
Memories, sweetened through the ages just like wine
Memories, memories
Of holding hands and red bouquets
And twilight trimmed in purple haze
And laughing eyes and simple ways”
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
A classic Elvis number, this song was recorded after Elvis split from his wife, Pricilla. Because of this, there is a strong sense of emotion in Elvis’s singing, and you can hear him yearning to be with his love again. It is for this reason that the song works so well as a funeral number, it is a great message of perseverance and remembrance.
“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”
I’ll Remember You
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I’ll remember you
Long after this endless summer has gone
I’ll be lonely, oh, so lonely
Living only to remember you
I’ll remember you
Your voice as soft as the warm summer breeze
Your sweet laughter, mornings after
Ever after, I’ll remember you
To your arms someday, I’ll return to stay
‘Til then I will remember too
Every bright star we made wishes upon
Love me always, promise always
Ooh, you’ll remember too
I’ll remember you
This is one of Elvis’s lesser known songs, but one that is a good pick for a funeral. As the title suggests, the song is about remembrance, and on it Elvis pledges to always remember his loved ones. On I’ll Remember You, Elvis isn’t putting on the big stage performance he’d take on in the 70s, this song is quiet, contemplative, and soothing, which makes it a great pick for a funeral.
“I’ll remember you
Your voice as soft
As the warm summer breeze
Your sweet laughter, mornings after
Ever after, I’ll remember you”
How Great Thou Art
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[Verse 1]
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
[Verse 2]
When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation
To take me home, what joy shall fill my heart
Then I shall bow in humble adoration
And there proclaim my God how great thou art
[Chorus]
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)
Then sings my soul my savior God to thee
How great thou art
How great thou art
Elvis was a big gospel fan, having grown up around the Churches in Tennessee, USA. On How Great Thou Art, Elvis is reinterpreting a classic hymn in the gospel tradition, and backed by a choir, Elvis’ sounds like he belongs in a church. If your wanting to combine Christian music and pop music, then consider picking one of Elvis gospel songs.
“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”
Elvis Presley – You’ll Never Walk Alone
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When you walk through a storm
Hold your head up high
And don’t be afraid
Of the dark
At the end of a storm
Is a golden sky
And the sweet silver song
Of a lark
Walk on through the wind
Walk on through the rain
Though your dreams be tossed
And blown
Walk on, walk on
With hope in your heart
And you’ll never walk alone
You’ll never
Ever walk alone
Walk on, walk on
With hope in your heart
And you’ll never walk alone
You’ll never
Ever walk alone
Here Elvis reinterprets a song most of us know associate with Liverpool F.C. The song’s message is one that assures the listener that they will never be lonely, and that there will always be someone there to comfort you. If your Grandad was a Liverpool fan, this song would be perfect. But, even if they weren’t big football fans, this song’s message is perfect for a funeral.
“When you walk through a storm
Hold your head up high
And don’t be afraid
Of the dark
At the end of a storm
Is a golden sky
And the sweet silver song
Of a lark”
Elvis Presley, Danny Boy
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Oh Danny boy, the pipes, the pipes are calling
From glen to glen and down the mountain side
The summer’s gone and all the roses dying
‘Tis you, ’tis you must go and I must bide
But come ye back when summer’s in the meadow
Or when the valley’s hushed and white with snow
And I’ll be here in sunshine or in shadow
Oh Danny boy, oh Danny boy I love you so
But if ye come and all the roses dying
And I am dead, as dead I well may be
He’ll come and find the place where I am lying
And kneel and say an ave there for me
And I shall feel, tho soft you tread above me
And then my grave will richer, sweeter be
For you will bend and tell me that you love me
And I shall rest in peace until you come to me
If you’re looking for an Elvis song that’s a little closer to home, consider this rendition of an Irish traditional song. “Danny Boy” tells the story of a father saying goodbye to his son as he goes off to war, and promising him that he’ll see him again one day. As the tune has aged many people have reinterpreted the metaphor to be about heaven, making it a popular choice for funerals.
“But come ye back when summer’s in the meadow
Or all the valley’s hushed and white with snow
‘Tis I’ll be here in sunshine or in shadow
O Danny boy, O Danny boy, I love you so”