At Co-op Funeralcare, we’re fascinated by funeral music choices and have been compiling funeral music charts for over 20 years.
Choosing a funeral song is an important way to personalise a funeral service. It’s a chance to pay tribute to your loved one’s personality and interests, or to say farewell with one of their favourite songs.
These charts represent the most popular farewell songs in the UK* and can serve as a source of inspiration for those currently arranging a funeral, or to help start conversations for those people contemplating their own funeral music choices.
2025 funeral music chart
From timeless ballads to cheeky pop hits, the songs chosen for funerals speak volumes about the personalities, passions and memories of those we love. This year's chart paints a vibrant picture of the UK’s most requested send-off songs - tracks that have brought comfort, smiles and celebration to families over the past year.
This year’s chart also celebrates the wonderfully unexpected. Families are increasingly choosing music that reflects the humour, quirks and individuality of their loved ones.
Some of the most unique choices in 2025:
We Like to Party! - Vengaboys
Gangnam Style - Psy
Jaws movie soundtrack
Ding Dong! The Witch is Dead - The Wizard of Oz
Dance Monkey - Tones & I
Countdown and Shipping Forecast themes
Firestarter - The Prodigy
21 Seconds - So Solid Crew
Take Me Home, Country Roads - John Denver
Read on to discover the Top 10 most popular funeral songs, and the meanings behind them all.
If you want to check out the top tracks for a specific genre, click on the links below:
Thinking about the future isn’t always easy, but
planning ahead can make a big difference. A prepaid
funeral plan is a simple way to arrange and
pay for your funeral in advance. From the big
decisions to the little details, you choose how you
want to be remembered, giving you, and those
closest to you, extra peace of mind.
Whether it’s choosing a favourite song, deciding
on the type of service, or simply starting the
conversation, making your wishes known is a
meaningful step. Co-op Funeralcare encourages
everyone to consider taking that step, because
your goodbye should be your way.
Time to Say Goodbye is a contemporary classical or operatic pop song.
Background
It was originally released as ‘Con Te Partirò’ and sung in Italian by tenor Andrea Bocelli in 1995.
Bocelli created this version, partly sung in English by British soprano Sarah Brightman in 1996. The song topped the charts all across Europe, including Germany, where it became the biggest-selling single in history.
Meaning of the song
There’s meaning in the title of the song whether it’s ‘Time to Say Goodbye,’ or the Italian ‘Con Te Partirò’, which literally translates to ‘I’ll leave with you’.
This beautiful ballad is about saying farewell to someone before embarking on a personal journey. It’s about the sadness of parting ways and the challenges of leaving loved ones behind.
Why it is a good choice for funeral music?
There’s no doubt why this emotional and sentimental song is number 1. The powerful vocals of Brightman and Bocelli may create strong emotions for anyone who is mourning the death of a loved one.
Frank Sinatra was an American singer and actor and was one of the most popular entertainers of the 1940s, 50s and 60s. Sinatra's music is a unique blend of jazz and classical, and he often incorporated woodwind and string sections into his songs.
Background
Frank Sinatra’s ‘My Way’ was released in 1969. Paul Anka wrote the English lyrics to the song and it’s set to the music of the French song ‘Comme d'habitude’ by Claude François.
Anka discovered the song ‘Comme d'habitude’. He bought the rights to the song and kept its music, but rewrote the lyrics with Frank Sinatra in mind.
The song has also been covered by Elvis Presley and Sid Vicious from the Sex Pistols.
Meaning of the song
It’s about someone reflecting on their life's journey and finding contentment. It’s about living life on your own terms, being resilient and staying true to yourself. The song's melody starts off with a touch of sadness, but builds up to a powerful chorus.
Why it is a good choice for funeral music?
The powerful chorus makes this song feel quite empowering. It may help you to celebrate and honour the unique life and independence of your loved one.
Eva Cassidy was an American singer and guitarist and her songs combined elements of jazz, folk, and blues music.
Background
‘Over the Rainbow’ was originally written for the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz, and sung by Judy Garland in her role as Dorothy.
Eva Cassidy recorded a studio version of the song in 1992. She was virtually unknown as an artist at the time of her death at the age of 33 in 1996. After she died, the song was included on a compilation album called Songbird in 1998.
In December 2000, a clip of Cassidy performing ‘Over the Rainbow’ was featured on the BBC2 program Top of the Pops 2. Following the premiere, it became the program's most-requested video in history. The song was later released as a single the same month.
Shortly afterwards, the compilation album Songbird climbed to the top of the UK Albums Chart, almost three years after its initial release.
Meaning of the song
Rainbows are often a symbol of hope in Western art and culture. This song is about longing for a place, where your dreams can come true. It may also symbolise a peaceful transition from life to whatever lies beyond death.
Why it is a good choice for funeral music?
Its gentle and soothing melody, combined with its hopeful lyrics, may provide a sense of comfort, particularly in times of sadness or grief. It may also offer reassurance and remind us that brighter days lie ahead.
Gerry and the Pacemakers are a Liverpudlian pop group from the 1960s, known for their catchy melodies and upbeat sound. They were associated with the Merseybeat sound, which emerged from the music scene in Liverpool during that time.
Background
‘You'll Never Walk Alone’ was originally a show tune from the musical Carousel in 1945.
Gerry and the Pacemakers' version of ‘You'll Never Walk Alone’ was released in 1963 and became a significant hit for the band, peaking at number one on the UK Singles Chart for four consecutive weeks. The band's version also reached the top of the charts in Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand. Later, the song became the anthem for fans of the Liverpool Football Club.
The song was also covered by Frank Sinatra in 1945, Judy Garland in the 1950s and by Elvis Presley in 1967.
Meaning of the song
This song has become an anthem of unity and symbolises the power of collective strength and the support of a community coming together.
Why it is a good choice for funeral music?
This song may provide a sense of belonging and connection for those grieving. It suggests that grief is shared and that you can lean on others for support. It may offer hope in the face of challenges.
'The Best' is primarily a blend of pop rock and soft rock.
Background
Originally written by Mike Chapman and Holly Knight, it was first recorded by Bonnie Tyler in 1988, but Tina Turner's 1989 version became the iconic hit most people know today.
Meaning of the song
It's a powerful anthem about deep admiration and unwavering appreciation for someone who stands out above all others. The lyrics express a sense of emotional security, joy, and fulfilment that the singer feels in the presence of this person - highlighting that they are not just good, but the best.
It’s often interpreted as a celebration of love, whether romantic or platonic, and has also been used in broader contexts to honour excellence and resilience. The upbeat tempo and strong vocals reinforce the message of empowerment and gratitude.
Why it is a good choice for funeral music?
Tina Turner's "The Best" can be a meaningful and uplifting choice for funeral music, especially when the intention is to celebrate the life and legacy of someone deeply cherished.
Ed Sheeran’s music combines pop and folk genres. He often plays acoustic guitar alongside his thoughtful lyrics. His lyrics are often quite personal and his songs are mixed with catchy melodies.
Background
‘Supermarket Flowers’ is the final track on his third studio album, Divide which debuted in 2017.
The song mainly consists of piano and acoustic guitar which accompany emotional, heartfelt lyrics.
Meaning of the song
Sheeran revealed that the song is about his late maternal grandmother. During the making of his album Divide, she was in the hospital near his studio and passed away while he was working on the music. After he played it at his grandmother's funeral, his father encouraged him to include it on the album.
Why it is a good choice for funeral music?
‘Supermarket Flowers’ is a heartfelt song that talks about death and remembrance in a poignant way. It may also be a helpful reminder that you’re not alone in your journey of honouring and remembering your loved ones.
‘Wind Beneath My Wings’ is a power ballad. It combines elements of pop and soft rock and the vocals emphasise the song’s heartfelt message.
Background
‘Wind Beneath My Wings’ was first recorded by Kamahl for a country and western album he was recording in 1982.
Bette Midler’s version was recorded by the singer and actress for the 1988 soundtrack to the film Beaches. This version spent one week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart in 1989, and won Grammy Awards for both Record of the Year and Song of the Year in 1990.
Meaning of the song
The song is a tribute to a loved one, acknowledging their role as the ‘wind beneath the wings’ of others. It honours their impact on the lives of those they supported and loved.
Why it is a good choice for funeral music?
‘Wind Beneath My Wings’ may help you to reflect on the impact your loved one has had in your life. The song may help you to honour the positive contributions your loved one had on your personal growth and success.
‘Abide with Me’ is a Christian hymn by the Scottish Anglican cleric, Henry Francis Lyte.
Background
‘Abide with Me’ was written by Lyte in 1847 as he was dying from tuberculosis. It’s often sung to the tune ‘Eventide’ by the English organist William Henry Monk.
The hymn is popular across many Christian denominations and was said to have been a favourite of King George V and Mahatma Gandhi.
Meaning of the song
The hymn is a prayer for God's presence and support throughout life, including difficult times and death. It expresses the need for companionship, comfort and guidance during challenging times and reminds us that we’re not alone.
Why it is a good choice for funeral music?
The hymn is a reflective and comforting prayer during difficult times. This hymn may give you a sense of comfort and solace and may help you to feel reassured during a time of grief and loss.
Vera Lynn was an iconic English singer and entertainer who gained immense popularity with her wartime songs.
Background
‘We’ll Meet Again’ was released in 1939 by Vera Lynn and is often considered a classic wartime song due to its association with World War II.
It’s featured in the final scene of Stanley Kubrick's 1964 film Dr. Strangelove, and has been covered by Peggy Lee, Rod Stewart and Johnny Cash.
Queen Elizabeth II referenced the song during a televised address to acknowledge the severe challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in April 2020.
Meaning of the song
Considered one of the iconic songs of the Second World War, ‘We’ll Meet Again’ symbolises hope, resilience and the strength of human connections. It reminds us that even in the face of adversity, the possibility of a reunion and happier times remains possible.
Why it is a good choice for funeral music?
The song may offer comfort to those grieving and may act as a reminder that when saying goodbye, there is hope for a continued connection and a sense of peace.
'You Raise Me Up' is a pop song, with strong influences from classical crossover and contemporary genres. It features orchestral arrangements and emotional vocals, which give it a powerful, inspirational tone.
Background
"You Raise Me Up" was originally composed by Rolf Løvland, a Norwegian pianist and member of the duo Secret Garden. It began as an instrumental piece titled Silent Story. After reading Irish novelist Brendan Graham’s book The Whitest Flower, Løvland invited Graham to write lyrics for the melody.
The first recording was by Secret Garden in 2001, featuring Irish singer Brian Kennedy. The song gained global recognition when Josh Groban performed it in 2004, including at the Super Bowl in tribute to the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster.
Westlife recorded their version in 2005, making them the 100th artist to cover the song. It became a major hit in the UK, topping the charts and winning UK Record of the Year.
Meaning of the song
The hymn suggests that God is the creator of everything in the world, both positive and negative, big and small. It has an uplifting and optimistic tone and celebrates the wonders of the natural world, its beauty, vibrant colours and landscapes.
Why it is a good choice for funeral music?
The lyrics speak to support, resilience, and emotional uplift—making it a powerful anthem for moments of reflection, grief, and gratitude. It’s often interpreted as a tribute to someone who provides strength during difficult times, which is why it resonates so deeply at funerals and commemorative events.
Along with your favourite music choices, it may be helpful to share some other funeral wishes with your loved ones. It allows you to personalise your goodbye and it ensures that your service reflects your personality and values.
It will also help your loved ones to know your wishes in advance and remove the burden of not knowing what to do during a difficult time.
It may feel difficult to start these conversations, so it may be easier to write down your wishes or include them in your will. When you're ready, our funeral wish list may help you start thinking about your funeral wishes.
A pop song can be a wonderful way to celebrate your loved one’s favourite artist or to create an uplifting mood at a funeral. This year’s top pop songs include an uplifting hit from Tina Turner 'Simply the Best', as well as a heartfelt song by Ed Sheeran.
Hymns and traditional music are a popular choice for funerals that take place in religious settings. They’ll often evoke heartfelt emotions and may provide comfort for those honouring their loved one. This year’s top 5 contains some classic hymns you might remember from school.
If your loved one is a sports fan, it may be a touching tribute to play a song associated with their favourite team. Football fans are covered with this year’s number 1 from Gerry and the Pacemakers, appealing to all those Liverpool supporters. Other sports in our top ten include a favourite for cricket and Formula 1 fans.
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Title
Change
1
You'll Never Walk Alone (Football - Liverpool FC) Gerry and The Pacemakers
Non-mover
2
The Best (Football - Rangers) Tina Turner
Up 3 places
3
Match of the Day theme song Football
Down 1 place
4
Z Cars Theme (Football - Everton) Johnny Keating
New entry
5
Soul Limbo (BBC Criket Theme) Booker T & The MGs
Down 1 place
6
The Chain (BBC F1 Theme) Fleetwood Mac
Down 3 places
7
Channel 4 Horse Racing Theme Horse Racing
New entry
8
We are the Champions (Football) Queen
New entry
9
Sweet Caroline (Football) Neil Diamond
New entry
10
Going Home (Football - Newcastle United) Mark Knopfler
*Research was conducted among Co-op’s Funeral directors and arrangers during May and June 2025 based on more than 90,000 funerals conducted in the last 12 months.
