10 Most Requested Funeral Songs in the UK
A refreshed guide to some of the UK’s most popular funeral songs, with video clips and gentle advice on choosing music that feels right for your loved one.
Choosing Music for a Funeral Service
Music is one of the most personal parts of a funeral service. The right song can bring comfort, reflect someone’s personality, or say the words that feel too difficult to speak.
Some families choose traditional hymns, others choose modern songs, and many now choose music that reminds them of happy memories. There is no perfect choice — only the choice that feels right for your family.
Time to Say Goodbye – Andrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman
A powerful and emotional piece of music, often chosen for its sense of farewell, dignity and beauty.
My Way – Frank Sinatra
A classic funeral song for someone who lived life with independence, character and strength.
Somewhere Over the Rainbow – Eva Cassidy
Gentle, hopeful and comforting, this song is often chosen for its peaceful and reflective feeling.
You’ll Never Walk Alone – Gerry and the Pacemakers
A song of strength, togetherness and support, especially meaningful for many families and football supporters.
The Best – Tina Turner
An uplifting choice for celebrating someone dearly loved, full of warmth, admiration and personality.
Supermarket Flowers – Ed Sheeran
A modern and very emotional song about grief, family and the small details that remain after someone has died.
Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler
A heartfelt song of thanks and love, often chosen for someone who gave quiet strength and support to others.
Abide With Me – Hymn
A traditional Christian hymn that remains one of the UK’s most meaningful and comforting funeral choices.
We’ll Meet Again – Vera Lynn
A nostalgic and hopeful song, often chosen for older generations or families who want a gentle message of reunion.
You Raise Me Up – Westlife
An emotional and uplifting song that can feel both spiritual and personal, especially for someone who inspired others.
How to Choose the Right Funeral Song
The best funeral song does not have to be the most popular. It simply needs to feel meaningful to your family and appropriate for the service.
- Choose a song your loved one enjoyed
- Think about lyrics that reflect their personality
- Consider whether the music feels comforting or uplifting
- Ask close family members for ideas
- Do not be afraid to choose something personal or different
Funeral Music Does Not Have to Be Traditional
Funerals today are much more personal than they once were. Some families choose classical music or hymns, while others choose pop songs, football anthems, film music or something that brings a smile.
What matters most is that the music feels right for the person being remembered.
Need Help Planning a Funeral Service?
Bay Tree Funeral Directors can help you choose music, readings and personal touches for a meaningful funeral service across Leicester and Leicestershire.
Funeral Songs FAQs
What is the most requested funeral song in the UK?
According to the latest UK funeral music chart, Time to Say Goodbye by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman is currently one of the most requested funeral songs.
Can we choose a modern song for a funeral?
Yes. Modern songs are very common at funerals, especially when they reflect the person’s life, personality or memories shared with family.
Do funeral songs have to be sad?
No. Many families choose uplifting, humorous or personal songs that celebrate life rather than only focusing on sadness.
How many songs are usually played at a funeral?
Many services include music as people enter, a reflective piece during the service, and a final song as people leave. The exact number depends on the type and length of the service.
Can Bay Tree Funeral Directors help with music choices?
Yes. We can help you think through music, readings and personal touches for the funeral service.