17 Funeral Songs For Men

Although funerals are typically traumatic, your fondest memories of your departed loved one can be intertwined with music. Choosing the perfect songs for your loved male’s final journey is the best way to personalize the occasion and pay them homage.

Here are the best funeral songs for men to help you put your emotions into words and honor him.

“Funeral” by Lukas Graham

Song Year: 2015

This smash by Lukas Graham departs the typical melancholy and sadness of most funeral songs for men. Instead, Lukas draws inspiration from his Irish-Catholic roots, creating an upbeat track for the funeral song. The Irish commemorate the life of a departed loved one by turning the funeral into a celebration to honor them.

The song is dedicated to one of Graham's childhood friends, who committed suicide in 2018. He was the artist’s age mate, and the two went through life together. This song is perfect for celebrating the life and death of a long-time friend in your life.

“Amazing Grace” by Leann Rimes

Song Year: 1997

Classics have always graced funeral services, and “Amazing Grace” is a perfect fit to give a befitting send-off to a man. The simple yet powerful song has been a staple feature in funeral playlists for its touching lyrics. “Amazing Grace” is about the redemption and forgiveness that comes with God's mercy.

The extremely popular Christian hymn's lyrics were written by poet John Newton, while the tune was composed by William Walker. Many artists have done their covers of this iconic tune, but Leann Rimes” acapella rendition stands out. It is a perfect song to commemorate a departed Christian faithful.

“Abide With Me” by Audrey Assad

Song Year: 2016

“Abide With Me” is among the most popular hymns globally, featuring in various special occasions, including funerals.  The track was originally composed by Reverend Henry Francis Lyte, an Anglican hymnist. The simple yet soothing melody contrasts with the extremely clever and devout lyrics and has stood the test of time since its debut.

The song is another befitting send-off tune for a departed Christian, answering the questions that come with losing a loved one. The assurance that the Lord will always be beside you is comforting at a funeral. Also, Audrey's soothing alto vocals add to the song's consolation – a perfect combo for a funeral song for men.

“I Wish” by R. Kelly

Song Year: 2000

“I Wish” is arguably R. Kelly's greatest R&B/Soul hit, which swept the music scene, bagging global awards in its genre. The song boasts tightly-written and emotional lyrics, beautiful vocals, and a catchy production with a children's choir.

This track is about Kelly lamenting the loss of his loved ones, including friends and family. This song was supposed to feature celebrated rapper 2Pac, but he passed away before recording his rap. Nevertheless, “I Wish” still succeeded, with relatable lyrics reflecting the futile desire to return the memories of departed loved ones.

“You Raise Me Up” by Westlife

Song Year: 2005

The talented Irish musicians, Westlife, is known to create music for the soul, and “You Raise Me Up” fits this description. The motivating song was originally penned and Published by Josh Groban, but it wasWestlife's rendition that gave it wings.

“You Raise Me Up” combines melancholy with optimism, and it's a great way of saying “Thank You” without uttering the words. It's a great funeral hymn featured in several funeral playlists. The lyrics are incredibly poignant, and the song's vibe is ideal for the occasion. “You Raise Me Up” provides you with something to cling to in difficult times, like losing a loved one.

“See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa & Charlie Puth

Song Year: 2015

A hip-hop track makes it into our compilation. “See You Again” was penned as a soundtrack to a 2015 film, “Fast and Furious 7.” The song is a homage to one of the movie's starring acts, Paul Walk, who met his untimely death before completing filming.

The sad yet lovely song is about missing a close departed friend and the yearning to see them. “See You Again” is a perfect blend of hip-hop and R&B, with Wiz laying powerful bars alongside Charlie's expressive vocals. The lyrics by Charlie were inspired by the loss of his high school friend, who departed similarly.

“The Message” by Dr. Dre

Song Year: 1999

“The Message” is the last track on Dr. Dre's second studio album, “The Chronic 2001” This song pays tribute to his fallen half-brother, Tyree, who was slain in 1989 in a street altercation. Although it is about losing a brother, much of the lyrics in the song may equally be applied to the loss of a close man in your life.

This track was produced by rapper-producer Lord Finesse and is underpinned by beautiful and melancholy keys and strings. “The Message” features vocal contributions from Mary J. Blige alongside emotional comments by Dre on life, grief, sorrow, and spirituality as he addresses his departed brother.

“Angels” by Robbie Williams

Song Year: 1997

Because of its beautiful words and strong melody, Robbie Williams' famous pop smash, “Angels,” co-written by Guy Chambers, is the ultimate choice for a funeral song for men. As the song title indicates, the concept of this ballad is supernatural.

It's about finding yourself in a challenging situation but remaining hopeful since you have people who love you and will always protect you. Robbie sings about “angels” with whom he is directly connected. This track isn't about anyone; it's about the idea that loved ones who have departed will return to take care of you and lift you when you're down.

“You're Never Over” by Eminem

Song Year: 2010

Eminem finally found the right words to eulogize the death of his friend Proof in “You're Never Over.” Proof – born DeShaun Holton – was Em's D-12 partner and long-time friend from Detroit, who passed away in 2006 to a club shootout.

“You're Never Over” was put together by Just Blaze, grinding along bungled guitars and a simple beat as Eminem spits his powerful bars. In the chorus, the talented Detroit rapper sings in an uncharacteristically soft voice about how he misses his friend but will always remember him.

“Song for Dad” by Keith Urban

Song Year: 2002

 “Song for Dad” is Keith Urban's heartfelt country ode to Dads and fatherhood. The track is lively and pleasant, while the words express gratitude and consideration for how much a kid may look up to their father.

This track is about fathers' best intentions for their children, helping you appreciate your father even more. When he becomes a parent, the narrator expresses his desire to have the same outstanding attributes as his father. This song is appropriate for mourning the loss of father figures in your life.

“The Living Years” by Mike & The Mechanics

Song Year: 1988

Consider “The Living Years” a touching song to play during your father's burial. The song is about the conflicted relationship between a father and his son, and the word the son wishes he could have said to his father while he was still alive.

It is a funeral song devoted to the father to celebrate the link between the past, present, and future. The song was composed by Mike Rutherford, the band's founder, and B.A. Robertson, a Scottish songwriter. The pair had recently lost their fathers when penning this master, making it a highly intimate venture. “The Living Years” is a perfect song to play at your departed father's funeral.

“Song for Josh” by Frank Turner

Song Year: 2013

“Song For Josh” was composed in memory of Josh Burdett, a security officer who committed suicide in 2013. He was well-known among American punk bands for his job as security at several shows and parties.

Turner knew him well and was taken aback by his untimely demise, something none of Burdett's friends had anticipated. The melancholy track emphasizes the sorrow and sadness of wondering if anybody might have helped. With more men committing suicide than women statistically, this song can be a befitting homage to a man lost to suicide.

“Time To Say Goodbye” by Sarah Brightman & Andrea Bocelli

Song Year: 1995

‘Time to Say Goodbye' was initially published in 1995 as a single release by Andrea Bocelli in 1995 under the title ‘Con te partir' – meaning ‘I'll leave with you.' Sarah Brightman was joined in the mix for a concert commemorating boxer Henry Maske's final battle a year later. The duet rendition was released with an English title, becoming an instant commercial hit.

As the song title suggests, “Time To Say Goods” is ideal for a funeral. This track's major theme is the separation that comes with death. However, the separation is just temporary. The duet's flawless delivery of the song's highly emotional tune will leave you in tears.

“I Wish Grandpas Never Died” by Riley Green

Song Year: 2019

Riley Green mourns the passing of good moments in life in this country ballad. “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” was penned by the vocalist alone, although his late grandfathers, Bufford Green and Lendon Bonds, are acknowledged as co-writers. It's an homage to their support of their grandson's chosen professional music path and the country music culture teachings they taught him.

These lyrics are well-recommended for you if you've lost your grandfather. It could help you cope with your enormous loss. Riley hoped the song's lyrics were true, particularly that grandfathers would never leave.

“A Picture of Me (Without You)” by George Jones

Song Year: 1972

“A Picture Of Me (Without You)” is a timeless country classic by George Jones, expressing the grief of not being with your loved one. The song addresses the gap left by departed loved ones and the significance of caring for them while you can.

This song was written exclusively for George Jones by two country songwriters, George Richey, and Norro Wilson. Jones infused his style with the song, which became an instant smash. Anyone experiencing tremendous grief will find solace in the ballad. It assists you in confronting all of your difficult emotions to get through the loss of a loved one.

“All Those Years Ago” by George Harrison

Song Year: 1981

George Harrison had initially penned this emotional tune for Ringo Starr, his close friend and collaborator. Fate happened when John Lennon, Harison's friend, and former Beatles bandmate, was killed in 1980. The song was modified to represent Lennon's death and honor the two's friendship while dealing with the band's enormous social and artistic significance.

In the song, Harrison expresses his pain of losing his mentor and one of his greatest friends, with whom he remained close even after the Beatles split in 1970. Over 40 years later, the song is as fresh as the first day it hit the airwaves, offering a genuine moment of emotional outpour. The song is ideal for honoring a departed man – friend, father, or brother.

“They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)” by Pete Rock & CL Smooth

Song Year: 1992

“They Reminisce Over You” is the most popular single from Pete Rock & CL Smooth's debut album, “Mecca & The Soul Brother,” in 1992. The hip-hop scene has seen prospects lose their lives at young ages, leaving families and friends in agony.

There's no hip-hop title that best captures this situation other than “T.R.O.Y.” The song is a dedication to Trouble T-Roy (born Troy Dixon), a Heavy D & The Boyz music group member who passed away in 1990. The song depicts Dixon's childhood memories, proving that regardless of your societal status, it's the simple memories that you'll leave behind.

Best Funeral Songs For Men, Final Thoughts

Music is an important and beautiful aspect of most services, and funerals are no exception.  The perfect funeral for men may enrich the experience of grieving and help you reminisce about your loved ones, so don't want to scrimp on this part of preparing.

Fortunately, our write-up highlighted the most befitting send-off tunes for men's funerals. You can create a playlist that perfectly commemorates your fallen loved one with the options above. You can either choose their favorites or songs that remind you of them.