The UK's top 10 most popular funeral songs

Are you looking for funeral music ideas? Find a fitting tribute with our list of the UK's top 10 funeral songs.

2. Frank Sinatra – My Way

Not only is "My Way" the second-most played song at UK funerals, but it's also the song people most often request for their own funerals.

It's easy to hear why. The lyrics speak of a life lived well, even in the face of adversity. For the narrator, regrets and hurdles don't matter because, throughout thick and thin, they followed their own path.

Of course, it's a wonderfully catchy tune, too.

3. Amazing Grace

"Amazing Grace" is one of the most popular Christian hymns ever written, so it's hardly surprising that it's so high on the list. Many famous artists have tackled it, including Rod Stewart, Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley.

The hymn was composed in 1772 and published in 1779. It's not often that a song remains so powerful – and popular – more than 200 years after it was written.

4. Gerry and the Pacemakers – You'll Never Walk Alone

While this song topped the UK charts on its release in 1963, it's perhaps best known today for its association with Liverpool Football Club. "You'll never walk alone" has become the club's official motto – and the song is sung by fans before the start of every home game.

You don't have to be a Liverpool fan to appreciate it, though. Its gentle, surging arrangement and comforting lyrics are universally affecting.

5. The Lord's My Shepherd

Of all the songs on this list, "The Lord's My Shepherd" is by far the oldest. The hymn was written in 1650. However, it's based on the biblical Psalm 23, which experts believe was composed around 3,000 years ago.

The lyrics tackle similar themes to "Abide With Me": the narrator trusts that God will guide and protect them through life and in death.

Yea, though I walk through death's dark vale,

Yet I will fear none ill,

For Thou are with me; and thy rod

And staff me comfort still.

6. Sarah Brightman and Andrea Bocelli – Time to Say Goodbye

You've no doubt heard this operatic pop number.

Its original Italian version, performed solo by Andrea Bocelli, was a huge hit across Europe. But when Bocelli teamed up with Sarah Brightman for this English-Italian rerelease, it became even more popular. In fact, it remains Germany's third-best-selling single of all time.

It works well as a funeral song because the lyrics feel relevant and the performance is powerful and moving. Give it a listen and see what you think.

7. Robbie Williams – Angels

This ballad made Robbie Williams a superstar in the UK in 1997. It's still widely played and much-loved today – especially as a funeral song.

It's a bit different to most of the songs on this list. "Angels" has a big 1990s pop sound and the lyrics are full of hope and optimism.

"Through it all, she offers me protection", sings Williams. You could interpret this to mean a guardian angel or as saying a person's love will live on in the hearts of their friends and relatives.

8. Bette Midler – Wind Beneath My Wings

If you're looking for a song that pays tribute to a person who has died, you won't find many more fitting than "Wind Beneath My Wings". "Did you ever know that you're my hero?" asks Midler in this classic ballad. "You're everything I would like to be."

Midler's version was released in 1988 on the soundtrack to the film Beaches, in which she also starred. However, the song had already been a hit for several artists, including R&B star Lou Rawls and Australian singer Colleen Hewett.

9. Jerusalem

This hymn is much-loved in the UK – so much so, in fact, that some have suggested it should replace the national anthem.

The lyrics don't really mention death or grief. But that hardly matters because the melody is so beautiful and the words so inspiringly patriotic. It's the kind of song that could stir emotions in anyone.

English poet William Blake wrote the words in the early 19th century. The famous musical accompaniment followed in 1916.

10. He will call

This beautiful, hope-filled song is often chosen by Jehovah’s Witnesses for funerals, offering comfort with its touching message of resurrection and God's promise to reunite loved ones. "He Will Call" speaks of life’s fleeting nature and reassures listeners that death isn’t the end. The heartfelt lyrics remind us of the resurrection hope found in the Bible, with the chorus declaring: "He will call; The dead will answer. They will live at his command." It's a powerful reminder that, in God’s memory, no one is forgotten.

We hope you find the perfect funeral song to give your loved one a fitting send-off. If you're looking

for ways to honour their memory, why not consider a Treasured Moments tribute site? It's a digital memorial that captures your most precious memories online – and it's tailor-made for you. Learn more about how they work.