So what song do you want played at Your funeral

[AzAnne]

That was the question on the radio this morning.
DJ said take a few minutes to think about it.

I didn't need to think, I've known for years what I want played.
Europa by Santana

You ever think about it?
What is your song?

[beejayw1]

Aside from the good old hymns (O Beautiful the March of Days, for example) how about this one:

"If Heaven" - Andy Griggs:

If Heaven was an hour, it would be twilight,
When the fireflies start their dancin' on the lawn;
An' supper's on the stove and Mamma's laughin',
And everybodys workin' day is done.

If Heaven was a town, it would be my town,
Oh, on a summer day in 1985.
An' everything I wanted was out there waitin',
And everyone I loved was still alive.

Don't cry a tear for me, now, baby;
There comes a time we all must say goodbye.
And if that's what Heaven's made of,
You know, I, I ain't afraid to die.

If Heaven was a pie, it'd be cherry,
So cool and sweet an' heavy on the tongue.
An' just one bite would satisfy your hunger,
An' there'd always be enough for everyone.

If Heaven was a train, it sure would be a fast one,
That could take this weary traveller around the bend.
If Heaven was a tear, it'd be my last one,
An' you'd be in my arms again.

Don't cry a tear for me, now, baby;
There comes a time we all must say goodbye.
And if that's what Heaven's made of,
You know, I, I ain't afraid to die.

Yeah, if that's what Heaven's made of,
You know, I, I ain't afraid to die

or, if you want to be silly:

"I'll be glad when you're dead, you rascal, you!" (as performed by Cab Calloway) :D

I'll be glad when you dead, you rascal, you.
I'll be glad when you dead, you rascal, you.
When they bury you six feet deep
No more fried chicken can you eat,
I'll be glad when you dead, you rascal, you.

I'll be oh, so glad when you dead, you rascal, you.
I'll be glad when you dead, you rascal, you.
I'll be standing on a corner full of gin
When they bring your dead body in,
I'll be glad when you dead, you rascal, you.

I'll be oh, so glad when you dead, you rascal, you.
I'll be oh, so glad when you dead, you rascal, you.
I took you to my home,
You wouldn't leave my wife alone.
I'll be glad when you dead, you rascal, oh, you hound!

I'll be oh, so glad when you dead, you rascal, you.
I'll be oh, so glad when you dead, you rascal, you.
What's this thing you got
Makes my wife think you're so hot? You dirty dog!
I'll be glad when you dead, you rascal, oh, you hound!

[Robyn1007]

Interesting question!

I have two, my favorite hymn is On Eagle's Wings and would want that played and then What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong.

[Terri_A]

Sammy Hagar
Where Eagles Fly

Sunday morning 9 a.m.
I saw fire in the sky
I felt my heart pound in my chest
I heard an eagle cry
Now I'm alive I can breathe the air
Feel the wind, smell the earth in the air
I watch an eagle rise above the trees
Project myself into what he sees
Hey-
Take me away
Come on and fly me away
Take me up so high
Where eagles fly
I oftem dream I sail through the sky
I've always wished I could fly
The simple life of a bird on the wing
Oh Lord, I could sing
Take me away
Come on fly me away
Lift me up so high
Where eagles fly
Oh yeah-
I'm alive, I breathe the air
Wash the earth from my face
I catch a glimpse of another dream
I turn, I look but there's no trace
Take me away
Come on, fly me away
I wanna fly away
Pick me up so high
Where eagles fly
Oh yeah-
Eagles fly, oh, take me away
Eagles fly, oh, take me away
Come on, let's fly away where eales fly
Come on, fly away where eagles fly




Of course..."Mas Tequila" would probably work too!!!

[Laura]

Well, most of mine are relgious becaues of my faith but they would be

It is well -
Who am I - Casting Crowns
He Reigns Newsboys
O Praise Him - David Crowder Band
The Setting Sun - Switchfoot

I guess there won't be much time for people to talk as I will have a lot of music played. :p

[Gumbeaux]

Don't fear the Reaper by Blue Oyster Cult.

[JulieM]

DH has always said he wants "Spirit in the Sky" played. We both love that song.

[Chefzhat]

Anything by Little Feat - I'm gonna have a party at my wake.

[Kayaksoup]

Closing Time, Leonard Cohen

[LA98]

Green Day "Good Riddance" (also known as "Time of Your Life" which would sound a whole lot nicer at a funeral... :D )

[mbrogier]

The Old Rugged Cross
and
What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong

[hollysmom]

Anything by Jimmy Buffett.

SSM

[GingerPow]

Hhhmm, good question.

"Alleluia. May Flights Of Angels Sing Thee To Thy Rest - Ian le Grice" John Tavener
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000B0A0C/sr=8-1/qid=1151375178/ref=pd_bbs_1/002-6629105-7166463?ie=UTF8
#1
---
"Aquarium" from Carnival of the Animals - Camile Saint-Saens
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000000ATX/qid=1151371532/sr=1-7/ref=sr_1_7/002-6629105-7166463?s=music&v=glance&n=5174
#7
----
"Adiemus" - Songs of Sanctuary
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000000WFU/sr=8-1/qid=1151372987/ref=pd_bbs_1/002-6629105-7166463?ie=UTF8
#1
---
"Now Sleeps the Crimson Petal" - Quilter and Tennyson
---
"Whisper Of Angels" - Amici Forever
I was yours before the first morn broke
Before the sun that woke the earth
And I was yours before rain kissed the ground
Before the first dawn's sound was heard

I'll be the whisper of angels
And I'll be the frost on your glass
And I'll be the shadows at twilight
I'll be your first your last

I'm the rush-the fire in your veins
Across the desert plains I ride
I'm the ache the sound that midnight makes
A streak of star across the sky

I'll be the whisper of angels
And I'll be the frost on your glass
And I'll be the shadows at twilight
I'll be your first your last
---
"Here's to Life" - Joe Williams
No complaints and no regrets
I still believe in chasing dreams and placing bets
And I have learned that all you give is all you get
So give it all you've got

I had my share, I drank my fill
And even though I'm satisfied, I'm hungry still
To see what's down another road, beyond a hill
And do it all again

So here's to life
And every joy it brings
Here's to life
To dreamers and their dreams

Funny how the time just flies
How love can go from warm hellos to sad goodbyes
And leave you with the memories you've memorized
To keep your winters warm

But there's no yes in yesterday
And who knows what tomorrow brings, or takes away
As long as I'm still in the game, I want to play
For laughs, for life, for love

So here's to life
And every joy it brings
Here's to life
To dreamers and their dreams
May all your storms be weathered
And all that's good get better

Here's to life
Here's to love
And here's to you
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000003D4J/qid=1151371956/sr=2-2/ref=pd_bbs_b_2_2/002-6629105-7166463?s=music&v=glance&n=5174
#1---
"Is That All There Is?" - Peggy Lee
Is that all there is, is that all there is
If that's all there is my friends, then let's keep dancing
Let's break out the booze and have a ball
If that's all there is
(Just kidding on that one!) :D

[jmarie]

This is one of the most beautiful goodbye songs that I have heard, so full of hope!

Goodbye For Now by: Kathy Troccoli

I can't believe that your really gone now
Seems like it's all just a dream.
How can it be that the world will go on?
When something has died within me....

The leaves will turn,
My heart will burn with colors of you,
Snow will fall but I'll recall your warmth.
Summer winter breathing in your memories
I 'll miss you.

But there will be a time when I'll see your face,
And I'll hear your voice
And then we will laugh again.
And there will come a day when I'll hold you close,
No more tears to cry cause we'll have forever

But I'll say goodbye for now.

I can't imagine my life without you,
You'll have a place of your own,
Just knowing that you were beneath the same sky,
Oh what, the joys I have known
On rainly days in many ways you'll water my heart
On starry night's I'll glimpse the light of your smile

Never more but from my heart you will stay with me,
So I'll wait
For there will be a time when I'll see you face
and I'll hear your voice and then we will laugh again
and there'll come a day when I'll hold you close
No more tears, to cry, because we'll have forever...
Then I'll say goodbye, for now.

But there'll be a time when I'll see your face and I'll hear your voice and then we will laugh again
And there will come a day when I'll hold you close, no tears to cry 'cause we'll have forever...but I'll say goodbye for now.
Yes...I'll say goodbye for now.

[Cookin4Love]

"I Can Only Imagine" (Mercy Me)

"Amazing Grace"

and "Shout to the Earth"

However, I'd prefer that none of us put this to the test any time soon in one of those eerie coincidences. Please take care of yourselves.

[Loremma]

"I will remember you" by Sarah MacLachlan

[tea4one]

Amazing Grace. That's the only one for sure that will be played at mine. I never gave a thought of choosing a non-religious song to play. The hard part is picking the scriptures and the such for all the readings that will be done, I think there's three. I think the last one I went to there was only one reading though??

[Middydd]

I'd like to have a New Orleans style procession playing "Just a Closer Walk With Thee" as my ashes are carried to the gravesite. Then I'd like "Somewhere Over The Rainbow" sung after burial.

[mikesmom]

Interesting question!

I have two, my favorite hymn is On Eagle's Wings and would want that played and then What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong.


Me too --

On Eagle's Wings
What a Wonderful World
The Lighthouse

[engineer]

The closing number from All That Jazz - Bye, Bye Life

done the way it was in All That Jazz

[MikeC]

Amazing Grace. That's the only one for sure that will be played at mine. I never gave a thought of choosing a non-religious song to play. The hard part is picking the scriptures and the such for all the readings that will be done, I think there's three. I think the last one I went to there was only one reading though??

tea4one,
The number of Scripture readings is up to you and/or your family. I'm a Lutheran church organist and I've played seven funerals (a lot, for my own church) in the last four months. All of them have had three readings.

[JulieM]

The closing number from All That Jazz - Bye, Bye Life

done the way it was in All That Jazz

Oh! That's a good one!

[hlao23]

DH has always said he wants "Spirit in the Sky" played. We both love that song.

My DH insists that's what he wants too! :D :)

I like the idea of not being particularly solemn.

[Varaile]

Do Not Go Gently Into That Good Night - this is a classical piece my HS Band played at Carnigie Hall

There is a song by Lorena McDermitt that I also would like played but I can't recall it at the moment. :mad: I think it's the Mummer Dance.

Spirit in the Sky is a good one! I'll have to remember that.

I love the idea of Over the Rainbow played after the burial. Makes me teary-eyed just thinking of it. Tho I would have it sung acapella.

[ErinM]

DH has always said he wants "Spirit in the Sky" played. We both love that song.


That one was played at my cousin's funeral last year. It was fitting as we all imagined her dancing her way down the aisle, as she loved to dance to that song! She left us was WAY too soon!

As for me, it depends on how I die. I love Amazing Grace, and that was played at both of my granparents' funerals, so that will probably be in there. I also like two songs from "O Brother Where Art Thou?", I'll Fly Away by Alison Krauss and "I Am Weary, Let Me Rest" by the Cox Family.

[Jazzmatazz49]

With any luck, the song I want played at my funeral hasn't been written yet, and won't be for several years.

[Lrimerman]

Well there are many songs people have mentioned that I think would be fitting and beautiful. Since we are Jewish, music is forbidden at funerals or during the time of mourning.

Makes it easy in some respects.

Lisa

[jpap]

I want several songs from Eva Cassidy's Songbird.

Fields of Gold
Autumn Leaves
Songbird
Somewhere over the rainbow

I've wanted It's a Wonderful World played since I was a little girl(strange thing to think about at that age), but since all the television ads using it I have second thoughts.

[SheRa]

Don't fear the Reaper by Blue Oyster Cult.

AWESOME! i think you might need a little more cowbell though ;)

i hafta think about this one. i like SO many songs!!

[JulieM]

We went to a funeral a couple of years ago in North Carolina for DH's uncle who passed away at around 90 years old. A distant cousin of the family attended who looked at least that old. And at the graveside when the service was about over, he quietly lifted his violin and played Amazing Grace, and it was so moving. Everyone cried, but really it was so fitting and so beautiful.

[ellielk]

Knockin' On Heaven's Door

[LakeMartinGal]

I can't think of the titles of these, but one is an Elton John song... something about seeing angels all day. I think he wrote it about a boy who died of AIDS. Another is one of the 'popular' songs by Josh Grobin.

Bridge Over Troubled Waters (Simon & Garfunkel)
Amazing Grace

With any luck, the song I want played at my funeral hasn't been written yet, and won't be for several years.

That one's my favorite... ;)

[GingerPow]

AWESOME! i think you might need a little more cowbell though ;)
http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f60/MurphChessLinus/animatedlaughingsmiley.gifHa - that started my day off with a chuckle!

[GingerPow]

I remember that my grandmother had requested John Denvers' "Take Me Home Country Roads" played at her funeral. My grandfather did not feel that it was dignified, so he didn't do it. I always thought he should have honored her wishes. That would have been a nice song.

[badunnin]

Do Not Go Gently Into That Good Night - this is a classical piece my HS Band played at Carnigie Hall

There is a song by Lorena McDermitt that I also would like played but I can't recall it at the moment. :mad: I think it's the Mummer Dance.



It's by Loreena McKennitt.


For me it will be "Rock and Roll Part 2" and "Song 2" by Blur. Party on Wayne.

[JulieM]

I remember that my grandmother had requested John Denvers' "Take Me Home Country Roads" played at her funeral. My grandfather did not feel that it was dignified, so he didn't do it. I always thought he should have honored her wishes. That would have been a nice song.
I agree that's a pretty song and would have been a nice song to play. Was she from West Virginia?

[sparrowgrass]

Ashokan Farewell--an instrumental, played in the Ken Burns Civil War documentary.

And I want someone to read this (change the "Patti" to "Debra", please):


POST HUMUS

Scatter my ashes in my garden
so I can be near my loves.
Say a few honest words, sing a gentle song,
join hands in a circle of flesh.
Please tell some stories about me
making you laugh. I love to make you laugh.
When I've had time to settle, and green
gathers into buds, remember I love blossoms
bursting in spring. As the season ripens
remember my persistent passion.
And if you come in my garden
on an August afternoon
pluck a bright red globe,
let juice run down your chin and the seeds
stick to your cheek. When I'm dead
I want folks to smile and say..."That Patti,
she sure is some tomato!"

by Patti Tana


From "When I am OLD WOMAN I Shall Wear Purple"

[rosen]

Minor hijack here: I've been thinking about this a lot lately as both my parents are very elderly & I wanted to get their wishes written down & perhaps a CD burned. Two of their favorites I haven't been able to find... would any of you super searchers know??

Amazing Grace: sung by a lone male voice. All I can find are choirs & females.

Going Home: We are Lutherans (Hi, MikeC!) & this is not in the hymnbook I have. I believe it may be an old spiritual. A search has turned up a song from the movie Glory & lots of contemporary stuff which is not it. I think I am just going to have to ask him to sing it for me & record it that way. "Going Home.... I'm going home........"

As for myself... once I started to make a list... it got sort of out of control! There are sooooo many that I dearly love. Lots of great picks from you all.

A much older friend of mine had great songs played at hers... all picked out by her DH & daughter: I'm Looking Over a 4 Leaf Clover, & other upbeat old timey songs like that. It was sooooo her & had us all smiling & singing along!

[muriel3002]

I really haven't given this too much thought either, except that I'd like "In the Garden" for sure.

He Reigns by the Newsboys is a good one, though, as is I Can Only Imagine.

[GingerPow]

I agree that's a pretty song and would have been a nice song to play. Was she from West Virginia?
No, she lived in Wisconsin, started life in Kentucky, then Indiana, then Illinois before WI. She was a highly educated, professional woman. Unusual for her day.

My grandfather would drive her to the Azalea Festival in the Smokey Mountains at least every other year. She loved the Smokeys, and loved going around her area to farms for cheese and farmers stands for produce. Country roads held a special meaning for her, that was her connection to the song.

[LA98]

I love the idea of Over the Rainbow played after the burial. Makes me teary-eyed just thinking of it. Tho I would have it sung acapella.

Oh, or that wonderful version by a Hawaiian singer...the one that was in the ER episode where Dr. Green dies...

[Silvery Moon]

I once told my three sisters that I want them to sing "Cabaret" at my funeral. However, I suspect that once I am gone, they would just play a recording.

Actually I don't want a funeral at all--anyone who cares can just go to a bar and have a drink in my memory. And if the bar has karaoke, they could sing "Cabaret!"

What good is sitting alone in your room?
Come hear the music play.
Life is a Cabaret, old chum,
Come to the Cabaret.

Put down the knitting,
The book and the broom.
Time for a holiday.
Life is Cabaret, old chum,
Come to the Cabaret.

Come taste the wine,
Come hear the band.
Come blow your horn,
Start celebrating;
Right this way,
Your table's waiting

No use permitting
some prophet of doom
To wipe every smile away.
Life is a Cabaret, old chum,
Come to the Cabaret!

I used to have a girlfriend
known as Elsie
With whom I shared
Four sordid rooms in Chelsea

She wasn't what you'd call
A blushing flower...
As a matter of fact
She rented by the hour.

The day she died the neighbors
came to snicker:
"Well, that's what comes
from to much pills and liquor."

But when I saw her laid out like a Queen
She was the happiest corpse...
I'd ever seen.

I think of Elsie to this very day.
I'd remember how'd she turn to me and say:
"What good is sitting alone in your room?
Come hear the music play.
Life is a Cabaret, old chum,
Come to the Cabaret."

And as for me, and as for me,
I made up my mind back in Chelsea,
When I go, I'm going like Elsie.

Start by admitting
From cradle to tomb
Isn't that long a stay.
Life is a Cabaret, old chum,
Only a Cabaret, old chum,
And I love a Cabaret!

[sage]

LA98---

I know that song you are talking about---it was also the soundtrack to a photo slide show of folks from around the country on MSN or something awhile back. One of those "24 hours in America" things...

Anyway---they gave a credit for the singer---if I spelled it right it is:

Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's version of Over the Rainbow.

-Shannon.

[LA98]

Shannon, thank you, that's it! Heading over to iTunes now to see if it's there... :)

[Beth H]

I also like two songs from "O Brother Where Art Thou?", I'll Fly Away by Alison Krauss and "I Am Weary, Let Me Rest" by the Cox Family.

I love both of those songs and also would want "I'll Fly Away." That song actually was written by Albert Brumley, and the other is a traditional gospel ballad from the 19th century. Of course, it would be wonderful to have Alison Krauss to sing it (although I guess it would be lost on me)! :)

[JulieM]

LA98---

I know that song you are talking about---it was also the soundtrack to a photo slide show of folks from around the country on MSN or something awhile back. One of those "24 hours in America" things...

Anyway---they gave a credit for the singer---if I spelled it right it is:

Israel Kamakawiwo'ole's version of Over the Rainbow.

-Shannon.He goes by the name IZ. I have one of his CDs and I love the Over the Rainbow song.

[JulieM]

Amazing Grace: sung by a lone male voice. All I can find are choirs & females.
Randy Travis has it on one of his spiritual CDs that I have. He has a great voice for this kind of music.

[Middydd]

Randy Travis has it on one of his spiritual CDs that I have. He has a great voice for this kind of music.

The Rod Stewart version, think it's on the Every Picture Tells A Story album is also very good. I think it starts out as another song, That's All Right? maybe.

[wallycat]

I hope to donate my body to science, so not a huge service afterwards, though they do a small service of sorts.
Anything by Mozart would be nice.

[ebf9q]

I have always loved "I'll Fly Away".

Alison Krause and Gillian Welch do it so beautifully on the "O Brother, Where Art Thou" soundtrack.

[ebf9q]

I have always loved "I'll Fly Away". It is an old spiritual that gained renewed interest with the release of the "O Brother, Where Art Thou" soundtrack. Alison Krause and Gillian Welch perform it beautifully.

[rosen]

Randy Travis has it on one of his spiritual CDs that I have. He has a great voice for this kind of music.

Thank you!! I'll check that out! Tenn Ernie Ford is also supposed to have a version... but I haven't been able to locate it, yet. TEF is one of his favorites. I'm sorry.... but Rod Stewart?!? :eek: I'm sure it's a beautiful version... but my dad would come back from the dead just to bless me out! The very thought has me laughing! :D

[Meganator]

Amazing Grace: sung by a lone male voice. All I can find are choirs & females.

Maybe not exactly what you are looking for, but have you heard the Blind Boys of Alabama's version?

[Goin' Coastal]

"I Can Only Imagine", and I've always loved the old hymn, "Just As I AM"

[Meganator]

Speaking of John Denver....I've always loved "Looking for Space". Not strictly funereal, but in my mind I have always had that association, because it was the song they played when Magnum was in the coma in the 1st last episode, and he was in the helicopter with TC flying around Hawaii. If you haven't a clue what I'm talking about, please just ignore me.

[rosen]

Maybe not exactly what you are looking for, but have you heard the Blind Boys of Alabama's version?

Ooohhhh! I bet this is great! I'm off to find it!

OK, found it. Ummm, I like it... but it's a bit too, ummm.... not his type. ;) Also found Elvis! And that certainly isn't his type. Needs to be more churchy or an a cappella version.

[ErinM]

Oh, I forgot that I'd like my version of "Amazing Grace" to be played on the bagpipes. That has always sent chills up my spine. Which it probably won't in this case, since I'd be dead.

[ErinM]

Ooohhhh! I bet this is great! I'm off to find it!

OK, found it. Ummm, I like it... but it's a bit too, ummm.... not his type. ;) Also found Elvis! And that certainly isn't his type. Needs to be more churchy or an a cappella version.


Y'know, rosen, you might want to try Andy Griffith. I remember this one commercial for those Time/Life type CDs that had something to do with Andy Griffith singing his favorite hymns. I wouldn't be surprised if iAmazing Grace was on there. Now, of course, I am no help as to how to find it, and I can't even remember how long ago it was that I saw the commercial, although I can say with confidence that it was within the last decade. I think.

Geez, some help I am! :rolleyes:

[Aubergine]

GingerPow: "Now Sleeps the Crimson Petal" was the haunting old song that Reese Witherspoon sang in Vanity Fair --- i'm floored that someone else actually knows it!

i actually sat down and wrote a list a few years ago, but dunno where it's gone; i checked, it's not in the "notes for will" (which has been written) folder. but this was ca. 2001, and i was in a very, very wierd place after 9/11. i think it included, "Is That All There Is?" by Peggy Lee, Sinatra's haunting tune about the years passing, including, "the autumn of my life..." (can't recall name...)...i debated including my #1 all-time favorite, the Doors "Light My Fire," but i also know i wanted to end with a beloved classical piece--and i have so many! how to choose? Pachelbel's Canon? Bach's Toccata and Fugue in D Minor? anything by Tschiakovsky? (sp???) Samuel Barber's haunting Adagio for Strings?

now, i don't know. people my age and younger are dying all the time; funerals have become a fact of life, even for young persons.<sigh> i didn't really envision having one, until i started going to them and realizing that they do serve a purpose for others.

right about now, i should really give this some thought again, 'cause i don't want my mom and kids choosing the music, heaven forbid!!! :rolleyes:, and life has taught me abundantly too well in recent years that anyone among us can go at anytime at all...

at the time, i had a very bitter, f-u attitude. that has changed some, except that the bitter has shifted to merely cynical. but i don't any longer think i want to subject persons to more sadness.

currently, i would def put Amazing Grace on my list, but also favorite classical pieces, awa a rock favorite--tough choice: LMF, or maybe Sledgehammer, the 2 songs that have really stayed with me. and i'd rather have Shakespeare (To thine own self be true...) and Walt Whitman (I am large; I contain multitudes) than a lot of biblical passages; i'm even more thankful for being Presbyterian.

knowing that most skimmed past this, but thanking you for the oppt'y to re-think the matter...

[BucknellAlum]

Okay, I hate to sound clueless, but what exactly does everyone mean about songs being played at the funeral?

I was under the impression that church funerals could not have non-sacred music, right? So if you are planning on a church funeral, would you play these songs at the gravesite?

And if you are not having a religious ceremony, would you have music at some type of gathering?

Or am I totally overanalyzing this :o and the question was merely to ask about what songs you feel best reflect that situation?

[Laura]

BucknellAlum,

I attend a non-denominational evangelical church. We have a lot of "praise" music during our service anyway so 3 out of the 4 songs that I listed would definitely fall into that category. There may be some churches that only allow traditional hymn music however.

[MikeC]

This is an interesting discussion for me; I've thought about hymns and songs for my funeral, but I tend to keep changing my mind! (I hope I have a lot of years before they are needed.....)

This past Sunday morning, we sang the spiritual "Give Me Jesus" as our communion distribution hymn. I had six of my adult choir members sitting just to the right of the organ console, and I could hear their harmony so clearly as the congregation sang; and I thought, "This could be a great hymn for a funeral.....maybe for mine!"

Give Me Jesus

In the morning when I rise, in the morning when I rise,
In the morning when I rise, give me Jesus.

(Chorus)
Give me Jesus, give me Jesus,
You may have all the rest, give me Jesus.

Dark midnight was my cry....

(Chorus)

Just about the break of day....

(Chorus)

Oh, when I come to die, oh, when I come to die,
Oh, when I come to die, give me Jesus.

(Chorus)


Another song I heard recently that I thought would make a good funeral song is Annie Lennox's "Into the West," the song that is sung as the credits run for the third of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, "The Return of the King." One of the most beautiful songs I've heard in a long time. It's not "sacred," but I typically play for 15 - 20 minutes before a funeral at my church -- maybe the song could be played as part of the preludial music, before the service actually begins? Anyway, the lyrics:

Into The West
by Annie Lennox

Lay down
Your sweet and weary head
Night is falling
You’ve come to journey's end
Sleep now
And dream of the ones who came before
They are calling
From across the distant shore

Why do you weep?
What are these tears upon your face?
Soon you will see
All of your fears will pass away
Safe in my arms
You're only sleeping

[Chorus]
What can you see
On the horizon?
Why do the white gulls call?
Across the sea
A pale moon rises
The ships have come to carry you home

And all will turn
To silver glass
A light on the water
All souls pass

Hope fades
Into the world of night
Through shadows falling
Out of memory and time
Don't say: «We have come now to the end»
White shores are calling
You and I will meet again

And you'll be here in my arms
Just sleeping

[Chorus]

And all will turn
To silver glass
A light on the water
Grey ships pass
Into the West


But I'll likely change my mind again and again.....!

[tea4one]

tea4one,
The number of Scripture readings is up to you and/or your family. I'm a Lutheran church organist and I've played seven funerals (a lot, for my own church) in the last four months. All of them have had three readings.

Yes, but there might not be any, knowing my luck nobody would show up. They certainly don't come around now!

[little_bopeep]

Knockin' On Heaven's Door

Just as long as they don't follow it with I Hear You Knockin', but You Can't Come In!

[little_bopeep]

Going Home: We are Lutherans (Hi, MikeC!) & this is not in the hymnbook I have. I believe it may be an old spiritual. A search has turned up a song from the movie Glory & lots of contemporary stuff which is not it. I think I am just going to have to ask him to sing it for me & record it that way. "Going Home.... I'm going home........"


If it's the one I'm thinking of, it has those lyrics to the tune of Dvorak's New World Symphony (I think that's the right piece...I know it's Dvorak).

[GingerPow]

GingerPow: "Now Sleeps the Crimson Petal" was the haunting old song that Reese Witherspoon sang in Vanity Fair --- i'm floored that someone else actually knows it!
Isn't that a beautiful song? The arrangement in Vanity Fair is by far the best, I've heard others, and they do not have the same air as that one.
Interestingly, this is a poem of Alfred, Lord Tennyson set to the music of Quilter, his first name escapes me. (Editing to add - as I was brushing my teeth this a.m. I recalled his name was Roger Quilter.)
It is actually a song about physical love, hidden behind metaphors to appease Victorian sensibilities. It is just so lovely, and yes haunting, that I would imagine people drifting along with the gorgeous melody and beautiful words, never realizing what it is really about.

[mbrogier]

Rosen, check out the old Broadman Hymnal for the song that you were looking for. I think it was published in the 40s and 50s. I am Baptist, but that hymnal has a lot of the old hymns and spirituals in it--like The Old Rugged Cross.

I love the idea of Alison Krauss' songs as well. I forgot how much I loved that soundtrack.

A lot of funerals are taking place at funeral homes now instead of churches, especially with families being so spread apart. None of Rob's grandparents had a church funeral, although the service was the same. I want mine to be different. Rob is a bit worried about that because of how uptight his parents are. I did leave clear instructions that his brother (my former pastor) will not have anything to do with my service. He treated me horribly when I was sick before my stroke. I've forgiven him, and we get along fine now. I'm just not comfortable with him presiding over the service as he does for all family funerals. My funeral will be so different anyway. I want it to be as happy as possible. I won't be there; I'll have gone to a better place. I do want to have the music and friends I enjoyed in life. I think the perfect closing classical piece for me is Grieg's Morning Mood.


I do love Amazing Grace. My cousin played it on her violin at our grandmother's graveside service. (I stood beside of her so she could do it without breaking down.) Rob and I had a bagpiper play Amazing Grace during our wedding as a memorial to our grandparents that couldn't share that special day with us (my cousin was a bridesmaid). I just get so choked up any time I hear that song.

[GingerPow]

This is not about music per se - but to add that when my DH's cousin died unexpectedly several years ago, I went through his mother's pictures (with her blessing) and ours and put together a montage of pix from his childhood through his wedding 3 months prior to his death. (Ach - so sad). That was 50+ years worth of pictures.

I noticed how much people were enjoying the pictures, they ranged from adorable to impressive (military service) to beautifully demonstrating his personality.

We recently went to a service for a friend's father where they also displayed pictures of him throughout his life. It's a wonderful tribute, and gives people an opportunity to focus on this person's life in a very positive way.

Not to be maudlin, but sometimes I come across a picture of myself and think that would be a good one to use for that purpose someday. :rolleyes: Since I'll be 100+ when I go, my family will have lots to choose from! :D

[ellielk]

Just as long as they don't follow it with I Hear You Knockin', but You Can't Come In!

:D

That's too funny.

[MKSquared]

If it's the one I'm thinking of, it has those lyrics to the tune of Dvorak's New World Symphony (I think that's the right piece...I know it's Dvorak).

You're correct. Symphony No. 9, "From the New World." You'll want to listen to the largo movement (no. 2) The theme ("Goin' Home") predates the symphony, but you'll probably have more hits if you include Dvorak or 'New World' in your searches.

It's also the same tune as "In the Bleak Midwinter," a lovely Christmas carol.

Listen to the whole symphony (http://www.columbia.edu/cu/cuo/audio.html) for free!

[Meganator]

Okay, I hate to sound clueless, but what exactly does everyone mean about songs being played at the funeral?

I was under the impression that church funerals could not have non-sacred music, right? So if you are planning on a church funeral, would you play these songs at the gravesite?

And if you are not having a religious ceremony, would you have music at some type of gathering?

Or am I totally overanalyzing this :o and the question was merely to ask about what songs you feel best reflect that situation?


I've never been to a funeral with music, either. I've only been to funeral home funerals, not church funerals. Regarding non-sacred music in churches - I am obviously not the expert on this, but that may just be a Catholic rule?

[MikeC]

Going Home: We are Lutherans (Hi, MikeC!) & this is not in the hymnbook I have. I believe it may be an old spiritual. A search has turned up a song from the movie Glory & lots of contemporary stuff which is not it. I think I am just going to have to ask him to sing it for me & record it that way. "Going Home.... I'm going home........"


Hi Rosen!
If you go to www.sheetmusicplus.com and search on "Goin' Home," you will find lots of hits, including the availability of the music for solo voice (either high, medium, or low) and piano or organ. I believe that Dvorak composed the "melody" for his symphony, and then it was arranged as a "song." Here's the blurb from one of the solo voice with piano versions on the website:

About Goin' Home
From the Largo of the New World Symphony. By Antonin Dvorak. Arranged by William Arms Fisher. For low voice, piano. Piano/Vocal Score. Op. 95. Published by Theodore Presser Company.

[MikeC]

I've never been to a funeral with music, either. I've only been to funeral home funerals, not church funerals. Regarding non-sacred music in churches - I am obviously not the expert on this, but that may just be a Catholic rule?

Funeral-home funerals -- at least most of the ones I've been to -- often don't have music. At my aunt's funeral (in a funeral home), we had one of our friends sing a solo unaccompanied. And some of the funeral homes here have small "chapels" in them, some with (usually terrible) electronic organs; I did play a funeral in a funeral home a couple of years ago. And I attended a funeral for a friend a couple of years ago where we sang two hymns to a accompanimental CD.

My family's "tradition" was funeral-home funerals; my background is not Lutheran. But since working in a Lutheran church for many years, I've come to believe that a church funeral is the way to go for anyone who has a "religious" background. It just seems appropriate to me that, for someone who worships regularly and whose faith has been an important part of his/her life, that person's "send-off" should happen in the place where they worshipped. (But I know there are probably just as many faithful Lutherans who use funeral homes, without music, for funerals!)

[hlao23]

I've never been to a funeral with music, either. I've only been to funeral home funerals, not church funerals. Regarding non-sacred music in churches - I am obviously not the expert on this, but that may just be a Catholic rule?

Or perhaps up to the pastor. I was married in a U.M. church and was glad that our minister left b/f we got married. I wanted my pre-wedding music just to be fun, upbeat songs (we played songs like "Wouldn't it be nice", "Sh-Boom", "The First Time it Happens" - sung by Miss Piggy and Kermit :D...) and the original pastor said "no way" The new pastor was fine with it though.

I'm guessing that might hold true for funerals as well.

[AvrilH]

My favorite piece of music is Rhapsody in Blue, and I would like to have that played at my wake. I'd also like "the glory of love" sung (Bette Midler sings it in Beaches: "You gotta win a little, lose a little..........").

[rosen]

If you go to www.sheetmusicplus.com and search on "Goin' Home," you will find lots of hits, including the availability of the music for solo voice (either high, medium, or low) and piano or organ. I believe that Dvorak composed the "melody" for his symphony, and then it was arranged as a "song." Here's the blurb from one of the solo voice with piano versions on the website:

About Goin' Home
From the Largo of the New World Symphony. By Antonin Dvorak. Arranged by William Arms Fisher. For low voice, piano. Piano/Vocal Score. Op. 95. Published by Theodore Presser Company.

Thank you!! Plus many thanks to MKSquared & mbrogier! I'm sending this info to my sister who will be able to comfirm that this is what I'm looking for. You guys on this board know everything! :)

Edited to add that I was able to find it!!! My whole problem was that I was searching for Going & not Goin'. Hooboy am I relieved! It is a beautiful song & has been recorded by some great voices. I'd love to post the lyrics... but haven't found them, yet.

I have been to several funerals lately (too many, too young, too sad) that have all been done at various churches-- while the people are coming in & getting settled, there is a CD playing that has a selection of the deceased ones' favorite music. One was a young woman & her music was all very contemporary, one was all bluegrass (it was so him!), & one was traditional odds & ends. This is one finale way to honor the personality of the deceased. I love hymns-- but this is such a better send-off-- IMHO.

[mbrogier]

The churches that I go to wouldn't be that comfortable with secular music in funeral services, either. Anyone that knows me would agree that a hymn only service just isn't me. It's going to take place in a really cool spot, like outdoors, anyway, so that doesn't matter.

[jmarie]

Are these the lyrics Mike? I found this one by the Gaithers.


Many times, in my childhood,
We traveled so far,
But night-fall, how weary I’d grown
Father’s arms would slip round me
“My son, we’re going home.”

Going Home,
I’m going home.
There is nothing to hold me here.
I‘ve caught a glimpse, of that Heavenly land
Praise God, I am going home!

Now the twilight is fading and the day soon shall end.
I get homesick the farther I roam.
But my Father has led me each step of the way,
And now I am going home.

Going home, I ‘m going home.
There is nothing to hold me here.
For I got a glimpse of that Heavenly land.
Praise God! I am going home.

[MikeC]

jmarie,

Your lyrics, I believe, are for a different version of the song, with a different melody. Dvorak's melody doesn't seem to fit those lyrics.

I've found three slightly different variations on another website. The first one is the one that I "think of" when I think of the song. If you actually buy a copy of the music, I'm not sure which one you would get -- probably the first version.

Here’s the one that I "think of"; I think this is probably the "original" version:

Going home. Going home. I'm a-going home.
Quiet-like some still day, I'm just going home.

It's not far, just close by, through an open door.
Work all done, cares laid by, Going to roam no more;

Mother's there expecting me, Father's waiting, too.
Lot's of folks gathered there. All the friends I knew.

2) Morning star lights the way, restless dream all done.
Shadows gone, break of day, real life just begun.

There's no break, there's no end, just a-living on;
Wide awake, with a smile, going on and on.

Going home. Going home, I'm just going home.
It's not far, just close by, through an open door.


Here’s another, very similar to the first, except it makes Jesus "the door"; a little more "religious," it seems to me:

Going home, going home,
I'm just going home.
Quiet-like, slip away-
I'll be going home.
It's not far, just close by;
Jesus is the Door;
Work all done, laid aside,
Fear and grief no more.
Friends are there, waiting now.
He is waiting, too.
See His smile! See His hand!
He will lead me through.

Morning Star lights the way;
Restless dream all done;
Shadows gone, break of day,
Life has just begun.
Every tear wiped away,
Pain and sickness gone;
Wide awake there with Him!
Peace goes on and on!
Going home, going home,
I'll be going home.
See the Light! See the Sun!
I'm just going home.


Here’s another, which makes it even more "religious" (if you will)

Going home, moving on, through God's open door;
Hush, my soul, have no fear, Christ has gone before.
Parting hurts, love protests, pain is not denied;
Yet in Christ, life and hope span the great divide.
Going home, moving on, though God's open door;
Hush, my soul, have no fear, Christ has gone before.

No more guilt, no more fear, all the past is healed;
Broken dreams now restored, perfect grace revealed.
Christ has died, Christ is ris'n, Christ will come again;
Death destroyed, live restored, love alone shall reign.
Going home, moving on, through God's open door;
Hush, my soul, have no fear, Christ has gone before.


As I said, I think the first version is probably the "original" one, arranged by William Arms Fisher.

[Gail]

Papa oo mau mau.

[rosen]

MikeC: Thanks for posting the words! My sister confirmed that this is the hymn dad refers to. She sent me the words to the second version. Now I have to decide/ figure out which is the one he likes best! Amazon has some beautiful versions of it if anyone wants to check it out. Paul Robeson, Bryn Terfel & a re-recording of a 1930's version complete w/ old track cracks & pops of Lawrence Tibbet. (In re-reading the posts, I discovered that little bopeep was the first to send me in the correct direction of my search-- I want everyone who helped to get credit! Thank you all!)

And Tenn Ernie Ford does Amazing Grace on a 1961 recording of hymns. Perfect!

[ErinM]

Papa oo mau mau.


"HIIIII-O, Silver, away!"


I love them Oak Boys!

[Aubergine]

This is not about music per se - but to add that when my DH's cousin died unexpectedly several years ago, I went through his mother's pictures (with her blessing) and ours and put together a montage of pix from his childhood through his wedding 3 months prior to his death. (Ach - so sad). That was 50+ years worth of pictures.

I noticed how much people were enjoying the pictures, they ranged from adorable to impressive (military service) to beautifully demonstrating his personality.

We recently went to a service for a friend's father where they also displayed pictures of him throughout his life. It's a wonderful tribute, and gives people an opportunity to focus on this person's life in a very positive way.

Not to be maudlin, but sometimes I come across a picture of myself and think that would be a good one to use for that purpose someday. :rolleyes: Since I'll be 100+ when I go, my family will have lots to choose from! :D

Ginger:
tx for the info on 'Crimson Petal." must tell you, i got a good laff at your, "brushing teeth" recollection of the composer's name.:D

i really appreciated this post of yours. although i hadn't given it any real thought, i guess is it is true nowadays that funerals take plance more often at funeral parlors...certainly the last 10 (in 10 years) that i've attended have been there, although there has also always been a priest/pastor/minister/rabbi also present. in fact, i'm wondering about this, b/c i also recall family funerals years ago that also were not in churches, although the persons involved were deeply involved, life-long churchgoers.

an easy guess would be regarding the attendees and religion in question, but then, people of various faiths attend weddings, etc. i hafta ask my pastor...i'm thinking it may have to do with health dept. codes, insurances, and the like. i mean, used to be that the body would be laid out in the family's home; when is the last time any of us saw that, other than in a movie?

but i digress...

in re: pix, this is a good point. when a dear GF recently died of brea*t cancer a few months ago at 53, the family had numerous candid pix of her being herself spread about, as well as a small photo album from when she was young, through older years. both were at the funeral home, and then moved to the post-funeral reception venue. i had never seen this before, but it was a wonderful tribute, imho. i did not know her as a youngster, but the GF i went with had grown up with her, and as we looked through the photo album together, i got a glimpse of Kathy's younger years, and our mutual friend saw the person she remembered from 2nd grade.

not talking 'glamour shots," :rolleyes:, just everyday, run-of-the-mill family snapshots. something to think about.

p.s. although funeral homes here don't have organs and choirs, i cannot imagine them refusing to design a service that would include the deceased's music choices, and certainly the technology exists to make it possible.

more and more, i think Pachelbel's Canon. it's typically used at weddings, but i adore it so much, it always makes my heart sing---woud it offend you at a funeral???

since SO and i were rear-ended very recently while stopped at a stop light, at 9:30 a.m.!, that plus this has hammered home to me the thought that no one among us knows, ever, when our 'number' will be up.

suz

[green1]

Heading out to the Highway.
Judas Priest
:cool:

[GingerPow]

more and more, i think Pachelbel's Canon. it's typically used at weddings, but i adore it so much, it always makes my heart sing---woud it offend you at a funeral???

suz
Funny you mention Pachelbel's Canon in D. I was one of those brides who walked down the aisle to it. I felt like I was floating on air. The sun was streaming in through stained glass windows. Ah, so beautiful and peaceful. We had a harpist play the music for our wedding - Pachelbel's Canon is gorgeous on a harp. (I have that on my iPod as a matter of fact).

IMHO, it would be perfectly appropriate at a ceremony to bid farewell. Add to that list Bach's "Air on a G string," and Debussy's "Clair de Lune." I think any would be very contemplative and peaceful, not sad. I can't imagine someone being offended at a lovely piece of music.

Heck, I'd have a mix of classical, choral pieces and jazz - I think we can say good bye any way we want! ;)

[Aubergine]

Add to that list Bach's "Air on a G string," and Debussy's "Clair de Lune." I think any would be very contemplative and peaceful, not sad. I can't imagine someone being offended at a lovely piece of music.

Heck, I'd have a mix of classical, choral pieces and jazz - I think we can say good bye any way we want! ;)

Claire de Lune--??? we must be twins separated at birth! how about L'apres-midi d'une Faune? or Satie's Gymnopedie? or one of Chopin's Etudes?

tell you what, i'll write a codicil and tell them to consult with you.:)

[Gumbeaux]

I have been to several funerals lately (too many, too young, too sad) that have all been done at various churches-- while the people are coming in & getting settled, there is a CD playing that has a selection of the deceased ones' favorite music. One was a young woman & her music was all very contemporary, one was all bluegrass (it was so him!), & one was traditional odds & ends. This is one finale way to honor the personality of the deceased. I love hymns-- but this is such a better send-off-- IMHO.

I agree.

As more and more church services become contemporary, more funerals will do the same. The last funerals I went to honored the deceased like you mentioned by playing "their" music. The ceremonies also projected a slide show of images on the wall during the music that celebrated the life and passions that the deceased had-family, friends, work, camping, cooking, etc. Personally, I like this much more than "cookie cutter" type ceremonies that look like the pastor just erased the name of the last person that died and inserted a new one.

My all time favorite funeral was Ray Charles'. I streamed this hours long funeral live from the internet while I was at work and listened to music by Willie Nelson, B. B. King, Glen Campbell, Stevie Wonder, and Wynton Marsalis. Comments by Bill Cosby, Quincy Jones, Bill Clinton, and others were great also.

http://news.aunz.yimg.com/xp/afp/20040618/09/1385277211.jpg

[matt]

I have a few that reflect my personality.
You got a friend By James TaylerYou got a friend
Will you remember me by Sarah Mclocklin (sp)
A Stable has been lit a little song I love in church
Clair del Loon by Debussey. As a kid I feel in love with that song from Highway to Heaven.
We shall be free by Garth Brooks
Circle of Fire from Garth Brooks again
One from U2
and most anything from Melissa Etheridge
finally i cant remember that guys last name he is a composer John something that I have heard at church and I cant remember who it is. His son died in an accident a couple of years ago.

[GingerPow]

Claire de Lune--??? we must be twins separated at birth! how about L'apres-midi d'une Faune? or Satie's Gymnopedie? or one of Chopin's Etudes?
Yep, yep and yep! Here is more you are most likely familiar with: Concerto For Harp And Orchestra In C Major: Rondeau: Allegro agitato, as well as music of Camille Saint-Saens.
tell you what, i'll write a codicil and tell them to consult with you.:)
Oh my! That's a nice compliment and I thank you.

I just learned about this song. An old Irish song sung for soldiers, (as well as in the pubs) but seemed appropriate to say goodbye, especially if they're holding an Irish wake for the dealy departed ;) : (Sung by the "Wailin' Jennys" - what a sound they have!)

The Parting Glass
Of all the money e'er I had, I spent it in good company;
And all the harm I've ever done, alas was done to none but me;
And all I've done for want of wit, to memory now I can't recall,
So fill me to the parting glass, goodnight and joy be with you all.

Of all the comrades e'er I had, they're sorry for my going away,
And all the sweethearts e'er I had , they wish me one more day to stay,
But since it falls unto my lot that I should go and you should not,
I'll gently rise and softly call, goodnight and joy be with you all.

If I had money enough to spend and leisure time to sit awhile,
There is a fair maid in this town who sorely has my heart beguiled.
Her rosy cheeks and ruby lips, I own she has my heart in thrall,
So fill me to the parting glass, goodnight and joy be with you all.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002IQGMQ/qid=1151893699/sr=2-2/ref=pd_bbs_b_2_2/002-6629105-7166463?s=music&v=glance&n=5174
click on #13

[Curiosity Hears]

"Time" by Sly & the Family Stone.

That is if I could only pick one song. I was hoping to make a compolation :p.

[matt]

It is John Rutter. I also had one additional song. For those who were a kid in the 70's two additional songs. Come Sail away with me. By Styx
and the last one is Dust in the Wind By Kansas.
For those who know me Come sail away they know that yes i tend to be a sci fi geek :eek: I know it is a shock but you know i wish i saw man going to the moon. sniff sniff
Matt

[little_bopeep]

"Gloria" by John Rutter is a favorite, Matt. Glad to know I'm in good company!

[FruitsAlive]

Ok, I know this is months overdue but I've given this a lot of thought since reading the initial thread. If I die anytime soon and you guys happen to hear about it, I want the theme song to The Jeffersons played at my funeral.

[boisewinesnob]

If I die anytime soon and you guys happen to hear about it, I want the theme song to The Jeffersons played at my funeral.

That's great!
I actually have that in my iPod :p
Movin' On Up by Ja'net Dubois and Oren Waters

[Goldie]

Here's a few of mine:
For a Dancer (Jackson Browne)
Before the Deluge (Jackson Browne)
Uncloudy Day (Willie Nelson)
Tears in Heaven (Eric Clapton)

I am so odd :o - I'm actually keeping a list on my Palm so when I hear something I think would be great, I toss it on the list! You guys are helping add to my list - thanks!

I know it's kind of an odd list to keep, but last year DH was very very close to dying, and gosh, the more things you can have planned, the better. Music is one of the easier things to think about, anyway.

[cindy47031]

My mom said she wants Bob Dylan's I Shall be Released. I told her, nope we're playing What a Long Strange Trip it's Been.

She agreed that that was probably more appropriate. ;)

[cindy47031]

BTW, thanks for resurrecting this! A very interesting thread!

[DeeK]

Funeral for a Friend by Elton John and Bernie Taupin and Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd.

Funeral was the music I skated to in competition (so many years ago). :o

[engineer]

I know it's kind of an odd list to keep, but last year DH was very very close to dying, and gosh, the more things you can have planned, the better. Music is one of the easier things to think about, anyway.

Not that odd - at least for me. I've already told DH to 1) not to bury me here because I don't want to lie in this frozen ground for eternity. 2) donate anything that is of any use to anybody. 3) contact the body farm and use me to move forward forensic science.

As for him he wants a wake - a really big party celebrating his life.

I had a boss that wanted to be cremated and have his wife send him to Australia because that was the only way he could get there:rolleyes:

[phnz2lft]

Anything by Jimmy Buffett.

SSM

Holly...you are my hero! Me, too!!!! I love Bubba!!!!:D

[nanco]

Somewhere over the Rainbow by Striesand or Eva Cassidy.

[JulieM]

Somewhere over the Rainbow by Striesand or Eva Cassidy. Have you heard the version by IZ (Israel Kamakawiwo'ole)?

[Jezebelly]

Some Pink Floyd, please.
Maybe Near the End by David Gilmour.
Maybe Brother's in Arms by Dire Straits.
Maybe Mama by Beth Hart.

Good question.

[Dani'sMom]

I think Amazing Grace played on the bagpipes is beautiful. Sweet Chariot.(from many years ago). Maybe something happy When The Saints Go Marching In or When The Roll is Called Up There.



ON a light note: DH had a friend in high school that wanted Ring of Fire. He was killed just before he got out of school..........as he was being lowered they played Ring of Fire.:eek:

[Geo_nerd]

Well, I'm planning to donate my body and I'm an atheist, so I hope there is no formal funeral service for me.
However, if my family decides to have some sort of service I'd like them to play whatever makes them feel good.

[hlao23]

Somewhere over the Rainbow by Striesand or Eva Cassidy.

Along that theme...
I just asked my friend the same question. He says he wants Ding, Dong the Witch is Dead ;) :D

[Kayaksoup]

Closing Time, Leonard Cohen
I have a new one ~ Mad World, Gary Jules

[Phoenixcooking]

Okay, I hate to sound clueless, but what exactly does everyone mean about songs being played at the funeral?

I was under the impression that church funerals could not have non-sacred music, right? So if you are planning on a church funeral, would you play these songs at the gravesite?

And if you are not having a religious ceremony, would you have music at some type of gathering?

Or am I totally overanalyzing this :o and the question was merely to ask about what songs you feel best reflect that situation?

I think the choice of music is left to the family and the individual church, I was raised in the Catholic church and the first time non religious music was played at church was when the older brother of a friend was killed in an accident and his mother requested his favorite song be played as his casket was taken out of the church at the end of service and so as the poll bearers walk him down the aisle, Queen blasted form the church speakers. Some people thought it was inappropriate, but if it gave his Mom comfort that was all that mattered.

As for music at my own funeral I want a party to celebrate my life not a funeral so I will live to those in attendance to play what they feel moves them funerals are for the comfort of the living I belive the dead are already taken care of.

[Leslie Ferguson]

One (or two) from my heritage:
Going Home and Amazing Grace on the bagpipes (live preferred but it not then by the Black Watch)
800-pound Jesus - written by a great friend (I'll have to see if I can find the lyrics)
Carry On Wayward Son Rachel, Rachel (Female Christian group)

I know there are more but those pop into my mind.

Peace,
Les

[ChristieinMB]

I think Amazing Grace played on the bagpipes is beautiful.
This must be popular, on another forum there is a request for a bagpipe player to play Amzing Grace for a life celebration this spring. This is in Mexico, I've never seen bagpipes in that town, I wonder if he will find someone.

[sararosalie]

I want a New Orleans Jazz funeral and then a big party afterwards.

My older brother has told us that he wants "In my life" by the Beatles. It's a great idea. though now everytime I hear the song, it makes me a bit sad---even though he is not old and healthy as a horse.

I guess that's the downside of thinking ahead. :o

[Jalapeno]

For me I want "I can only Imagine" by MercyMe

For those I leave behind I want "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

[do-lolly]

When The Saints Go Marching. LOL:D I've never lived in New Orleans, but I would love to have a New Orleans style funeral. I love the whole concept, of the wailing, slow music they play before hand and then the jazzy, dancing and celebrating music upon leaving. I think some of the old ladies in my small southern town would just have conniptions if they were there, but that's the way I would love to go out.

[do-lolly]

Oh, I also would like to have homemade cupcakes served at my visitation.:D There is nothing in the world that makes me happier than a cupcakes with sprinkles.

[generic]

Along that theme...
I just asked my friend the same question. He says he wants Ding, Dong the Witch is Dead ;) :D*SNORT* :D This is hilarious! I may have to steal this idea. In my living will I have expressly forbidden a funeral, but if my loved ones want to have some kind of memorial to comfort those left behind, that's up to them.
I've been known all my life for making people laugh unexpectedly. That is probably my greatest "legacy," and I want that to carry into any kind of memorial service. I was trying to think of a song that would catch people off guard so much that they would not be able to avoid hysterical laughter. The Witch is Dead just might fill the bill! Too bad I won't be there to see it. I can just hear it now, "which old witch?, the wicked witch....." :p

Of course, if I don't die til I'm toothless and 90 and drooling into my Reeboks, there will be no one left to attend the service!

[Leslie Ferguson]

This is hilarious! I may have to steal this idea. In my living will I have expressly forbidden a funeral, but if my loved ones want to have some kind of memorial to comfort those left behind, that's up to them.

I'm with you. Since I will be cremated to begin with I'm requesting a memorial service as a celebration of life - no black (desried) but rather every other color HAS to be represented especially my favorites: turquoise, magenta, purple, BRIGHT red, and pink.

Peace,
Les

[generic]

but rather every other color HAS to be represented especially my favorites: turquoise, magenta, purple, BRIGHT red, and pink.

Peace,
Les
Hmmmmmm.....Les, it sounds like you need to include Jerry Garcia somewhere in your musical lineup! :p

[TKay]

Nobody said, "Stairway to Heaven?" I can't believe it. I was going to say Aqualung, Smoke on the Water or Inagodadavida (sp?), but you know, I just couldn't do it with a straight face.
I love the idea of Queen blaring out at a funeral. I really don't know what I'd pick. Dh was sick last year and it got us thinking, what ARE we going to do for arrangements? Better to plan it ourselves than stick our kids with it.

[Leslie Ferguson]

When The Saints Go Marching. LOL:D I've never lived in New Orleans, but I would love to have a New Orleans style funeral. I love the whole concept, of the wailing, slow music they play before hand and then the jazzy, dancing and celebrating music upon leaving. I think some of the old ladies in my small southern town would just have conniptions if they were there, but that's the way I would love to go out.

I was thinking of something more along the lines of a cross between a good Irish Wake and a Praise and Worship service. I kind of figure it this way, I'll be dead and most people think I'm a bit touched anyway. :D

Peace,
Les