journey songs about death

Be informed. Be inspired. Celebrate your loved one.

100 Greatest Songs About Death & Losing Someone You Love

Songs about death abound. From Homer to Poe, the canticles of Mesopotamia to Beethoven, ancient mosaics to modern art — death and loss have long been a source of inspiration for the arts.

Plays, poetry, paintings and music have centered around this inevitable part of life since the earliest civilizations. Death rocks us at the very core of our emotions and stirs the deepest corners of our spirit, moving many to express their pain in ways that can be shared.

Music, in particular, has a way of touching the mind and the emotions, acting simultaneously as a coping method for anxious thoughts and a balm for the broken heart.

We all know from experience that music can soothe, comfort, and even heal. 

Songs About Losing Someone You Love

Music is undeniably powerful.

Knowing what great power music can have to aid the mourning process, we felt it was only right to compile a list of songs that we believe can help you or a loved one through such a difficult time. 

You may be looking for music for the memorial service, or maybe you just need a comforting playlist to calm your troubled mind. Whatever the case may be, listed below is our collection of the 100 greatest songs about losing someone you love.

1. He Stopped Loving Her Today by George Jones (1980)

A heartfelt and sentimental country ballad , Jones recalls the story of a man who overcomes the loss of his love only when he is finally reunited with her. A short, sweet tribute to undying love. 

2. Lay Me Down by Sam Smith (2014)

Lay Me Down is a soulful expression of the pain felt when you lose someone you love. It shakes your world and you’re left wishing you could still be beside them. Powerful, moving, and beautiful.

3. Slipped Away by Avril Lavigne (2004)

A bittersweet song written in the form of a letter to the one that has been lost, Slipped Away encompasses both grief and regret of moments missed. 

4. We’ll Meet Again by Vera Lynn (1939)

Bright, classic and comforting. With an air of promise and joy at the hope of a future reunion, it lightens the atmosphere surrounding loss by looking forward to “some sunny day.”

5. Who You’d Be Today by Kenny Chesney (2005)

A song for a loved one gone too soon. Sometimes, oftentimes, death doesn’t seem fair — especially when it takes those we care for when their story has only just begun.

6. I’ll Be Missing You by Puff Daddy & Faith Evans (1997)

A timeless classic . Often, the best way we can find comfort is to reminisce on the one we’ve lost, and look forward to seeing them again.

7. My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion (1997)

Few songs can strike the chord of longing like My Heart Will Go On . Beautiful, passionate and resonating, it settles in the soul a knowledge that the one you’ve lost is never far from your heart.

8. Ghost by Justin Bieber (2020)

Upbeat and yet still reverent and full of emotion, Ghost is a refreshing input from the pop scene. Sometimes we have to settle for the memories when we can’t follow where they lead.

Related: Modern Songs for Funerals

9. If I Could Only Bring You Back by Joe Diffle (2004)

Nothing in this world, not wealth or status or accomplishment, can fill the hole left behind when we lose someone we love . We’ll always wish for them to be with us to ease that empty feeling.

10. Not a Day Goes By by Lonestar (2001)

It’s incredible how the memory of someone can carry us through the most difficult times in our life. They never truly leave us when we keep them close to our heart .

11. The Last Carnival by Bruce Springsteen (2009)

Be it literal or metaphorical, The Last Carnival is a poetic depiction of loss. When you’ve lost your partner or friend, the story seems to want to draw to a close. But the show goes on.

12. You Should Be Here by Cole Swindell (2016)

Written for the loss of a close friend, reminiscent longing is in the forefront of this country ballad. They should be here, but they’re just gone too soon.

13. Dance by Nas (2002)

Few griefs can compare to the loss of our mothers. A soulful tribute to the woman we wish we could have one more dance with.

14. Hurt by Christina Aguilera (2006)

Hurt is a grief-stricken expression of remorse and guilt. Hindsight is always 20/20, and we often wish we could turn back the clock and do things differently. 

15. In Loving Memory by Alter Bridge (2004)

Realizing how big of a role someone played in your life is part of the grieving process. You often don’t know just how much they meant to you until they’ve gone. They were always beside you , even if you took it for granted. 

16. Goodbye by Cage the Elephant (2019)

Saying farewell is one of the hardest parts of losing someone, as it forces us to acknowledge that they are gone. It feels so final, but sometimes finality is what we actually need.

17. We’ll Always Love Big Poppa by the LOX (1998)

Classic hip-hop with a resonating message . Treasuring someone beyond the grave is an essential part of keeping their memory alive and close to you.

18. Heaven by Beyonce (2013)

Mournful, powerful and so, so beautiful . As tightly as we hold onto someone, sometimes heaven just can’t wait and we’re forced to let go.

19. One More Day by Diamond Rio (2001)

Often after a loss, we fill our minds with regrets that we didn’t cherish our time more deeply with the one we lost. We wish for one more day to tell them how much they mean to us and just how much we love them.

20. To Where You Are by Josh Groban (2001)

Written in the wake of the tragic loss of his fiancé, To Where You Are was Groban’s outpouring of love and grief, as well as a musical masterpiece. Somber and beautifully intimate, it speaks to the fragile heart.

Songs About the Death of a Friend

21. one sweet day by mariah carey, boyz ii men (1995).

The aftermath is always filled with “I’m sorry.” Sorry we didn’t spend more time with them, sorry we didn’t tell them how wonderful they were… But there is always the hope of looking forward to that one sweet day when we see them again .

22. Who Knew by Pink (2006)

Another modern take from the pop scene, Who Knew relates the shock of losing someone suddenly. We never know when we will see them for the last time, so cherish every memory.

23. Wish You Were Here by Incubus (2002)

The title says it all for this soft rock track. Wish You Were Here encapsulates the feeling of wishing that special someone was close to you again, experiencing all of life’s ups and downs the way things used to be.

24. Helena by My Chemical Romance (2004)

Sometimes we need peaceful, somber tracks to soothe our hearts. But sometimes we need something a little heavier to cope with the powerful emotions we experience. Helena , raw and abrasive, fits the bill perfectly in that case.

25. Gone too Soon by Michael Jackson (1991)

In the way only Michael Jackson could, Gone Too Soon takes us on an emotional journey that travels to the fondest of remembrances.

26. Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (1975)

Questions always surround loss. Why did they have to leave? How could they leave you behind? Why them? All questions you wish you could ask them.

Related: Best Rock Songs for Funerals

27. King of Sorrow by Sade (2001)

King of Sorrow speaks to the difficulty of carrying on daily life after a loss. Ultimately, each day passes and not much changes, but to you the world feels like it’s upside down.

28. Difficult (Dudey) By Eminem (2011)

Raw and powerful, Eminem grieves the loss of his dearest friend on this rap track. Moving on is never easy, and Difficult embraces that feeling in a gritty, poetic flow.

29. Yesterday by The Beatles (1965)

Often seen as a love song, Yesterday also speaks to loss and grief as we fondly look back on our time with the one we loved. Everything changes so quickly when we are suddenly left without them.

30. Ocean Breathes Salty by Modest Mouse (2004)

Carrying with it both fondness and angst, this track bounces between sad frustration and a hope that the one gone finds a better place.

31. Radios in Heaven by Plain White T’s (2001)

Written as a tribute to a close friend that passed, Radios In Heaven is packed with powerful word pictures that tug on the heartstrings, especially if you’ve lost someone. 

32. Cryin’ For Me by Toby Keith (2009)

Sometimes the tears don’t come right away . Sometimes they won’t until something like a voice memo or a letter or card triggers those feelings. Then the tears fall, and they can fall as long as they need to.

33. I Miss My Friend by Darryl Worley (2002)

The loss of a spouse or a lover is so earth shattering. They were a confidant and a life partner, and most importantly they were your friend. 

Related: Comforting Messages for Loss of Wife

34. Music for a Nurse by Oceansize (2005)

This somber and mournful track resonates with that unspeakable grief that escapes through mumbled words and hushed cries. It’s calming melodies juxtapose the sad lyrics to form beautiful memoriam.

35. Goodbye by DMX (2006)

Heavy hip hop beats drive home the reality that goodbyes are inevitable. You never know when you’ll see someone again, so say your farewells while there’s still time.

Songs About Dying Young

36. sissy’s song by alan jackson (2008).

Such a stirring and lovely ballad, Sissy’s Song sweetly commemorates a young woman gone too soon, but at peaceful rest in heaven. 

37. Death Bed (Coffee for Your Head) by Powfu featuring Beadadoobee (2020)

Contrasting the previous tracks on this list, Death Bed is written from the perspective of the dying individual, full of regret that they have to leave their love behind. Hopes and dreams are recounted with sorrow as they’ll never come to fruition.

38. Gone Too Soon by Daughtry (2011)

Gone Too Soon was written for an infant child lost before they had the opportunity to experience life. What would they look like? What would they love or be talented in? All questions that surface in the heart of a grieving parent.

Related: Funeral Songs for Child Loss

39. See You Again by Wiz Khalifa (2015)

Heartfelt and reverent . We hold onto the hopes that we will, in fact, see our loved ones again someday at the end of our own journey. We’ll have so many stories to tell and smiles to share.

40. Ronan by Taylor Swift (2021)

In Swift’s own words Ronan encapsulates “heartbreak and healing, rawness, tragedy and trauma, and an imagined future alongside someone.” The track recounts a mother’s words to her young son whom she has lost to a terminal illness.

41. Wake Me Up When September Ends by Green Day (2004)

Another beautiful song stemming from the artist’s personal loss, When September Ends chronicles the desire to hide away during the time of mourning. Seasons pass in a haze until grief becomes bearable and the normal passage of time resumes.

42. Little Bonnie by Drive-By Truckers (2006)

Blaming one’s self for the loss of someone dear, especially a child, is quite common. Such is the narrative of the song Little Bonnie . 

43. Old Money by Lana Del Rey (2014)

Our hearts are always willing to go to those who leave before us, as much as we know that’s not the correct response to grief. They would want us to live on in their stead, knowing they’ll wait for us .

44. Candle in the Wind by Elton John (1973)

Candle In the Wind is probably one of the more iconic memorial songs ever written. Originally a tribute to Marilyn Monroe, the song has become a symbol of all those who have passed in the prime of their life.

45. Coldest Winter by Kanye West (2008)

Kanye bids an impassioned farewell to someone already gone on this powerful and emotional cover . Memories are the only thing that bring comfort for the brokenhearted.

46. If You’re Reading This by Tim Mcgraw (2007)

If You’re Reading this is written from the perspective of a soldier who has left home knowing he won’t return. He’s left a letter to his loved ones, instructing them as to how he wishes to be laid to rest. A favorite choice for the veteran or serviceman.

47. Gone Too Soon by Simple Plan (2011)

Unexpected loss is so hard to cope with. No time to say goodbye, or exchange smiles or loving words. Gone Too Soon encapsulates that feeling perfectly.

48. Supermarket Flowers by Ed Sheeran (2017)

Another beautiful tribute to mothers, Supermarket Flowers is mournful, yet hopeful and laced with gratitude for those “angels in the shape of our mums.”

49. Guernica by Brand New (2003)

We often wish we could switch places with those we are losing. Better for them to live on in our place, right? That’s the real meaning of sacrificial love, and the feelings conveyed in Guernica.

50. Dance With My Father by Luther Vandross (2003)

So heartwarming and sentimental is this reminiscence of a son about his father. The prayer for one more chance, for just one more dance.

51. Concrete Angel by Martina McBride (2001)

Loss of a child, to any circumstance, is unbearable. Concrete Angel tells the story of a little girl who got her wings too early.

Saddest Songs About Death & Dying

52. fade in/fade out by nothing more (2017).

Fade In/Fade Out is an impassioned retelling of the last moments between a father and son, and the former’s words of wisdom and direction. Heavy, powerful and intimate.

53. Save a Place for Me by Matthew West (2008)

As much as it hurts that they’re gone, we have to stop and remember that they’re free from the weight of this world. We tearfully look forward to when we will see them again . 

54. Dog Years by Maggie Rogers (2017)

Another piece written from the one that has passed, Dog Years is a comforting reminder that they are always with us and always will be.

55. My Immortal by Evanescence (2003)

Beautiful, resonating and mournful. My Immortal has become a source of comfort for many, as it expresses the pain we experience so specifically, yet in a way that can be related to by almost anyone.

56. Sweet Old World by Lucinda Williams (1979)

Sweet, yet laced with embittered feelings — there are so many emotions that are carried with loss, and we can’t help but express them. Sweet Old World does just that.

57. The Prayer by Kid Cudi (2008)

Kid Kudi’s The Prayer is a prospective hope for his eternal future as he prepares his mind and heart, as well as his fans, for his eventual demise. 

58. I Will Follow You Into the Dark by Death Cab for Cutie (2006)

When our hearts are tied to another’s, it’s easy to say we’d do anything — and go anywhere — for their sake. That includes following them into the dark when our own time comes.

59. Like You’ll Never See Me Again by Alicia Keys (2007)

A beautiful reminder to cherish every moment that we are given on this earth. All of those little, sweet moments build our memories for the future.

60. Don’t Take the Girl by Tim McGraw (1994)

A song that could melt the coldest of hearts, Don’t Take the Girl follows the story of a young couple as they face life’s perils. 

61. What Hurts the Most by Rascal Flatts (2008)

Regrets flood this emotional power ballad . There’s always so much we wish we could have done or said to them before they left, but time isn’t always on our side.

62. Whiskey Lullaby by Brad Paisley ft. Alison Krauss (2003)

There are few songs on the charts today that can compare to the tragedy of Whiskey Lullaby . A heartbreaking story of two lovers who really couldn’t live without each other.

63. Fade to Black by Metallica (1984)

Feelings of emptiness are so overwhelming at times that “coping” seems impossible. Each day is a battle we’re tempted to give up on when someone we love has gone. 

64. Keep Me in Your Heart by Warren Zevon (2003)

A short, sweet reminder from the one we’ve lost as they start their next journey. Keep Me in Your Heart turns sentiments to song in this hopeful ballad.

65. Into the Light by In This Moment (2014)

Into the Light is a beautifully sorrowful goodbye, as well as a grateful prayer that the one we’re losing will be freed from their pain here on earth.

66. Skeleton Tree by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds (2016)

Skeleton Tree feels more like a sigh of relief than anything else. They may have left, but for them everything is now alright.

67. Make Heaven Wait by Wayne Brady (2008)

This is a sentiment we’ve all felt at one point or another. We wish we could “press rewind,” ask for more time, and Make Heaven Wait.

68. One More Light by Linkin Park (2017)

This touching ballad reminds us that even through the horrible inevitability of loss, it’s important to let people know how much we care.

69. Vivian by Delta Spirit (2010)

An emotion packed tribute to a lover lost. Mournful but still hopeful, looking forward to the day when they are reunited.

70. Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton (1992)

Another of the more infamous songs of remembrance, Tears in Heaven was Clapton’s personal tribute to his young son, Conor, after he tragically passed. Sweet, intimate and reverent.

71. Beloved by Mumford & Sons (2017)

A powerfully emotional track reflecting on Mumford’s loss of someone very dear to him. In his own words, the song is laced with “wildness, beauty, and a deep honoring.”

Songs for Grieving

72. everybody hurts by r.e.m. (1992).

Comforting, peaceful reminders pour through the lyrics of Everybody Hurts . There is some solace to be found by remembering that you aren’t alone in your mourning.

73. Everything I Wanted by Billie Eilish (2019)

One of the most gifted young lyricists of the modern era, Eilish’s poetry hits hard in Everything I Wanted . Sometimes our dreams are the only place where we can seek comfort from the one we’ve lost.

74. Hear You Me by Jimmy Eat World (2001)

Heartfelt and intimate, Hear You Me , often remembered as “May Angels Lead You In” is a beautiful tribute ballad. A prayer for those we love as they enter their eternity.

75. Even in Death by Evanescence (2000)

Sometimes accepting the reality of loss is the hardest part of grieving. We never truly feel that they are gone, because their presence is still so near .

76. When You’re Gone by Avril Lavigne (2007)

There’s such a hole left in our hearts when we’ve been robbed of someone’s presence. When You’re Gone translates this feeling powerfully.

77. In the Arms of the Angel by Sarah McLachlan (1997)

In the Arms of the Angel is a sorrowful prayer that the one we love be released from the pain they endure. What we truly want for them, even in our own pain, is for them to be at peace.

78. Fire and Rain by James Taylor (1970)

We never have as much time as we hoped . So often we don’t realize when the last time we’ll see someone is, until it’s too late. We thought we’d see them at least one more time.

79. Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground by Willie Nelson (1980)

Nelson’s heartfelt message to his “angel,” knowing that their time is limited, and they must return to the heaven they came from. Such an endearing and comforting song.

80. Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley (1994)

Though most often seen as a love song, Hallelujah carries with it a somber air of remembrance. Love known and lost leaves many broken hallelujahs in its wake.

81. The Dance by Garth Brooks (1989)

Losing someone we love sometimes makes us wish we could have bypassed the pain, but we realize we could never replace the wonder of the time we had with them . It is worth the pain in the end.

82. Here Today by Paul McCartney (1982)

Reflecting on a beautiful relationship that seems to have never fully come to fruition, McCartney’s sorrow and regret are at the forefront of Here Today.

83. Our World is Grey by As Cities Burn (2007)

Heavy and mournful anger sets the tone for this track. Anger and frustration are common and relatable forms of grief, and both are fully present in Our World is Grey.

84. Over You Miranda Lambert (2011)

Questions like “how could you go” often plague our hearts in a time of grief. But we know they wouldn’t have left if they had a choice. They would’ve stayed next to us.

Related: The Grieving Process and How to Cope With It

85. The Light Behind Your Eyes by My Chemical Romance (2013)

A sorrowful “farewell” to those who have already left, and a hope that those we ourselves leave behind remain strong in our absence.

Songs to Lift Your Spirits

86. dancing in the sky by dani & lizzy (2016).

A hopeful and uplifting song , though riddled with notes of sorrow over loss. We always hope that those we’ve lost are truly happy in their eternity.

Related: Uplifting Songs for Funerals

87. Three Little Birds by Bob Marley & The Wailers (1980)

“Don’t worry about a thing, because everything is gonna be alright.” That’s the message Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds delivers to him and to the listener. Hope for a bright new day is on the horizon.

88. I’ll Fly Away by Allison Krauss and Gillian Welch (2000)

I’ll Fly Away is a bright, time honored tune that has granted comfort and peace for decades. Surely, some glad morning, we will all fly away from the cares of this world.

89. Tell Your Heart to Beat Again by Danny Gokey (2014)

Tell Your Heart to Beat Again is like a blanket of comfort for the cold heart. Looking forward to a new beginning and a new day, leaving the darkness behind us as we cannot let it define our existence.

90. Love is Stronger Than Death by The The (1993)

Even in the midst of grief there is always knowledge of a new, coming season. The return of spring, of blues skies, and a day where those we’ve lost will rise.

91. Just Be Held by Casting Crowns (2014)

What is more comforting than to know there is always Someone who can hold us, even in the darkest and most desperate of times of grief? We can rest in the promise that we’re never alone.

92. American Pie by Don McLean (1971)

There are few songs over which there has been more debate as to their true meaning than American Pie . Ultimately, it has been accepted as a tribute to legends gone too soon. Full of nostalgia and heartwarming word pictures, it’s a classic for a reason.

93. See You Again by Carrie Underwood (2013)

Sweet and comforting is the knowledge that we will be with our loved ones again on the other side of eternity. We carry their love and memory with us every day until we See Them Again.

94. Fly by Celine Dion (1996)

As tragic as it is to lose a child, we find solace in the fact that they’ll never have to experience the hardships of this world. They get to fly away from it all, even if we are left behind.

95. I Will Rise by Chris Tomlin (2008)

How wonderful to know there is a victory that has overcome death and the grave, and given us a peace that passes understanding. Joy and love will triumph over loss and pain.

Related: Christian Funeral Songs

96. Live and Die by The Avett Brothers (2012)

Quaint and wholesome, Live and Die is a descriptive verse of the bond that remains strong and unbending in life and in death.

97. Sunshine on My Shoulders by John Denver (1971)

Sunshine On My Shoulders is a beautiful song about feeling the presence of the one we’ve lost all around us. While somber, its lovely reminiscence is heartwarming.

98. Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon & Garfunkel (1970)

Famous for its comforting and poetic lyrics, few songs can compare to Bridge over Troubled Water . Remembering that someone is there to lean on in times of loss and hardship means the world to an aching heart.

99. There Will Be a Day by Jeremy Camp (2008)

Surely, there will be a day when the sorrow we’ve experienced will melt away, and we will be renewed by the promise of a joy-filled and painless eternity for the ones we love.

100. Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole (1990)

Few songs can lift the spirits and cause us to look to a brighter day more than Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s beloved rendition in particular is so warm and full of love.

Read Next: Best Happy Funeral Songs

With a heart full of empathy and a desire for supporting those in mourning, McKenna is someone who understands the profound impact of loss and the myriad of emotions that accompany it.

With the attention to detail gained through an M.A. in Fine Arts (Pensacola Christian College), McKenna strives to address the questions that often accompany grief: How do you navigate the intricate emotions that arise when you lose a loved one? What resources are available to assist you in your journey towards healing? How can you find the strength to move forward while cherishing the memories of your loved ones?

With a unique blend of skills in writing, graphic design, SEO, and editing, she is dedicated to crafting meaningful and visually captivating content that resonates with you during times of grief.

McKenna has been writing for US Urns Online since 2022, where she serves as an author and content editor.

1 thought on “100 Greatest Songs About Death & Losing Someone You Love”

Sister Dear by Beth Hart

Leave a Comment

10 Best Rock Songs About Death of All Time, Ranked

By: Author Alex Kelly

Posted on Last updated: July 8, 2023

Home » Music » Rock » 10 Best Rock Songs About Death of All Time, Ranked

There are many rock songs about life, love, and of course death. Death is a part of life that everyone experiences, whether it be worrying about their own death or the death of loved ones, so it’s no wonder so many artists have written about death in songs and music over the years.

Some of the best songs out there are about death, and I personally don’t think these songs always have to be sad or depressing. They’d be great choices for a funeral or wake or a way to remember a loved one once they’ve left this world.

Here are some of my favorite rock songs about death, see if you agree!

1. “Into The Mystic” – Van Morrison (1970)

Let’s start off with a beauty of a number – it’s “Into The Mystic” by Van Morrison from his 1970s album Moondance. This song is a positive song about death, the idea of not fearing death and happily heading ‘into the mystic’.

You can’t help but feel ethereal and spiritual listening to this song, and that beautiful acoustic guitar really helps add to that effect. This song is regularly played at funerals, and it gives mourners a positive association with death.

2. “Videotape” – Radiohead (2007)

Now we’re headed down a slightly more melancholic road. The first line of “Videotape” from Radiohead’s 2007 album In Rainbows features “the pearly gates”, so we know exactly what this song is about before it really kicks in.

Thom Yorke’s distinctive voice tells us a story of a man who is saying his last goodbyes and recording them on technology that will soon be outdated. It’s a haunting song in reality and one of my personal favorites.

3. “Until The Day I Die” – Story Of The Year (2003)

“Until The Day I Die” by American band Story Of The Year is a nostalgic number for anyone growing up in the early 2000s. This is a classic pop-punk/rock number that explores themes of sacrifice and dying for the one you love.

Lyrics such as “as years go by, I race the clock with you” and “I’ll spill my heart for you” give those deathly connotations that come with a great rock song about death.

4. “Black Star” – David Bowie (2015)

Perhaps one of the more haunting songs on our list, is the iconic “Black Star” by David Bowie , from his final album of the same name. This album was released when Bowie knew he was dying, and the song “Black Star” in particular seems to be the most poignant of them all.

Lyrics include “on the day of execution” and “something happened on the day he died”, encouraging many fans to believe this was Bowie’s way of saying goodbye.

5. “Roses For The Dead” – Funeral For A Friend (2005)

“Roses For The Dead” by Funeral For A Friend was released on the album Hours in 2005 and is known to be about the death of close friends. 

This post-hardcore rock band even signifies death in their name. If you’re into this style of music this would be the perfect funeral song or way to get through the grief of a loved one. 

6. “Going, Going, Gone” – Bob Dylan (1974)

Next up on our list is a very underrated song by the incredible Bob Dylan. “Going, Going, Gone” is a beautiful song from Dylan’s Planet Waves album released in 1974, and analyses themes of death in lyrics such as “closing the book” and “just got to cut loose before it gets too late”.

Suicide has been heavily linked to this belter of a rock song about death and has been covered by many other artists such as Emma Swift, Gregg Allman, and Steve Howe. 

7. “Dancing With Mr. D” – Rolling Stones (1973)

As soon as the iconic riff on this song starts, you’ll know exactly what’s playing. “Dancing With Mr. D” is the first song on the Rolling Stone’s 1973 album Goats Head Soup . Mr. D is quickly discovered to be a pseudonym for death, with “One of these days, he’s going to set you free” mentioned quite early in the song.

This song is very poignant for Rolling Stones fans, as it took on new meaning when the drummer of the band, Charlie Watts, passed away in 2021.

8. “The Show Must Go On” – Queen (1991)

Next up we have an emotional one, particularly if you’re a Queen /Freddie Mercury fan. “The Show Must Go On” was released in 1991 on Queen’s album Innuendo and was written by Brian May shortly prior to Freddy Mercury’s untimely death in 1991.

At this point in his life, Freddie’s condition had deteriorated due to his HIV/AIDS diagnosis, and the song was released just 6 weeks prior to his death. The song was widely praised and spent five weeks on the top UK charts both before and after Mercury’s death.

9. “Tears In Heaven” – Eric Clapton (1992)

If that last song didn’t make you cry, then this one sure will! “Tears In Heaven” by Eric Clapton is a beautiful ballad written about the death of Clapton’s four-year-old son. It featured on the 1991 Rush film soundtrack and is a tragic song about Clapton’s pain in living without his son.

Many people who have lost loved ones turn to this song in grief, and it’s a firm favorite of mine from my best rock songs about death.

10. “Soil” – System of a Down (1998)

Now we’ll end on a high, with a punchier number from the incredible System Of A Down. “Soil” was released on the album Soil in 1998, and lyrics such as “making a decision of death” and “confidence, death, insecurity, your men fall unrealized” all give connotations of dying and death. 

When introducing the song at a gig, the band’s singer Serj Tankian explained the song is “about death, and friends that die, and life that dies”. It’s a great number to end our journey through the best rock songs about death!

Alex is a man of many talents. He’s been playing music since he was young, and has been the main content writer at Tone Start for the past few years. Alex loves to play around with different styles of music and enjoys listening to anything from country to classical.

• Music History
• Music Theory
• Musical Theatre
• Theatre History
• Song Meanings
• Progressions
• Songs Title Words
• Home Theater

The 67 Best Songs and Lyrics About Death Of All Time

Death is a topic that has been explored in music for centuries. Songs about death can be somber, sad, and introspective, or they can be dark, morbid, and macabre. In this blog post, we will take a look at 10 of the best songs about death.

These songs run the gamut from country to metal, and from heart-wrenching ballads to head-banging anthems. So put on your headphones, pour yourself a glass of bourbon, and prepare to explore the dark side of life…

Table of Contents

1. (Don’t Fear) The Reaper by Blue Oyster Cult.

This classic 1976 soft rock track of the same name is a song about death from a hopeful perspective. It encourages listeners to take what life has to offer and embrace death when it comes, instead of fearing it.

The chorus “Don’t fear the reaper/ We can be like they are/ Come on baby… don’t fear the reaper” represents a kind of defiance against fear.

The song has become an anthem for those who are facing death and has been used in various movies and television shows, showing its impact on popular culture.

2. (I Just) Died in Your Arms Tonight by Cutting Crew.

This song captures the heartache of a relationship gone wrong and how it can feel as if you have died inside. The opening verse states, “I keep looking for something I can’t get/Broken hearts lie all around me/And I don’t see an easy way to get out of this.”

The chorus reflects the feelings of a relationship that is no longer sustainable, with the lines “I just died in your arms tonight/It must have been something you said/I just died in your arms tonight.”

Ultimately, this song captures the death of a relationship and how it can feel like an emotional death.

3. American Pie by Don McLean.

Though it is not entirely about death, the song does have a few lines that refer to when Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper died in a plane crash.

The line “the day the music died” has become an iconic phrase ever since this song was released in 1971.

4. Angel by Sarah McLachlan.

The song is a tribute to friend Jonathan Melvoin, an American musician who died of a drug overdose in 1996. It speaks about missing someone and the pain that accompanies their absence.

The lyrics “And I will rise up/ From these ashes like a phoenix / To a better place, far away from here” reflect McLachlan’s message of hope after loss. With its haunting melody and heart-wrenching lyrics, Angel is a beautiful reminder of the power of love to transcend even death.

5. Another One Bites the Dust by Queen.

Released in 1980, this iconic song is a reflection of life’s uncertain nature and the inevitability of death. While not necessarily about death itself, it speaks to the idea that no one is exempt from its power.

The driving beat and memorable chorus remind us to make sure we appreciate every moment and seize life while we can.

6. Beloved by Mumford & Sons.

This song is a heart-wrenching ode to the idea of death, discussing its inevitability and expressing hope that those who have left us behind can still feel our love.

The lyrics express the desire to reunite with someone in a place where “we never had to die” and to look down from a higher ground so that we can still feel their presence.

The song is an emotional reminder of the importance of cherishing the time we have with those we love, and it’s an inspiring anthem for anyone dealing with grief.

7. Black Parade by My Chemical Romance.

Released in 2006, this song is about accepting death and saying goodbye . The lyrics talk about how life may be hard and painful at times, but eventually, death will come to take away the pain, hurt, and sorrow.

It speaks of a person coming to terms with their mortality while still hoping there’s something beyond death that they’ll get to experience.

8. Dead by My Chemical Romance.

This song is about a person that is struggling to cope with the loss of a loved one. It talks about how hard it can be to say goodbye and how difficult it can be to accept death.

The chorus speaks of the sorrow of having to carry on without their presence: “If I fall, will you carry me home? When all hope is gone, can you hear me cry? Is this what it’s like to be dead?”

This song expresses the pain of having to move on after death and encourages people to keep living despite the loss.

9. Dream On by Aerosmith.

This classic rock track features one of the band’s signature power ballads and is a rumination on life and death.

The song follows protagonist Steven Tyler as he reflects on his own mortality and that of those around him, asking listeners to “dream until your dreams come true.”

With its epic guitar riffs and tear-inducing lyrics, Dream On serves as a reminder that life is short and to live it to the fullest.

Additionally, the song has become an anthem for those facing difficult times, providing comfort in its message of hope and resilience.

With its timeless themes and universal appeal, Dream On remains one of Aerosmith’s most beloved hits.

10. Driving Nails in My Coffin by Ernest Tubb.

This classic country song paints a picture of a man whose heart has been broken one too many times, and his only solace is in death.

He talks about how he’s done everything the world asked him to do, but now he just wants peace and freedom from heartache.

The chorus captures the somber mood perfectly: “I’m driving nails in my coffin, one by one/Till I’m buried deep down in the ground/I’m gonna lay me down and die, shout goodbye to the world around.”

11. Everybody Lost Somebody By Bleachers.

This song is all about the pain of losing a loved one and how that loss can forever change our lives. It’s filled with raw emotion and aching lyrics, making it an intense but beautiful tribute to those we have lost along the way.

The chorus speaks directly to listeners, reminding us that we are all connected in our grief and sorrow. It encourages us to accept our feelings and recognize that the pain of loss never fades away.

Everybody Lost Somebody is a powerful reminder of how death has shaped us all. It’s a poignant tribute to those we have loved and lost, allowing us to take comfort in knowing they will always be remembered.

12. Fade to Black by Metallica.

Released in 1984, this song is a classic rock hit that touches on the topic of death. The lyrics reflect on mortality and how it’s impossible to avoid: “Life, it seems will fade away/Drifting further every day/Getting lost within myself/Nothing matters no one else.”

While dealing with such a somber subject, Fade to Black conveys a sense of hope in the idea that death isn’t the end, but rather a way to move on to something else.

The song is an anthem for those who are struggling with their mortality and want to take comfort in the idea that life never truly disappears.

13. Fire and Rain by James Taylor.

This iconic song was released in 1970 and tells a story of personal loss and grief. The song is set during the Vietnam War era, and it describes Taylor’s experience of his friend’s death in combat, as well as his own struggle with depression.

It captures the raw emotion of dealing with tragedy and serves as a reminder that even when times are tough, healing is possible. The yearning chorus of “just yesterday morning, they let me know you were gone” expresses Taylor’s despair over the loss of his friend and how quickly life can change in an instant.

Despite its melancholy lyrics, Fire and Rain serves as a reminder that even when faced with tragedy, hope still exists.

14. Gone Away by The Offspring.

This is a somber song about losing someone close to you. It’s packed with emotion as the lyrics talk about how life will never be the same without that person and how their absence leaves an empty void in your life.

The song has an urgent rhythm and tone, making it feel like a desperate plea for the weight of death to be lifted.

15. Gone Too Soon By Michael Jackson.

Gone Too Soon is a song by Michael Jackson that was released in 1987. The song is about the untimely death of his close friend, Ryan White, who died from AIDS-related complications at the age of 18.

The lyrics are emotional and heartbreaking as Jackson sings to the heavens asking why such tragedy occurred: “Like a castle you built on a sandy beach / Gone too soon”.

The song has become an anthem of mourning and is often played at funerals and memorial services.

Although the subject matter is difficult, the track serves as an important reminder that life can be cut short without warning. It is a heartfelt tribute to those who have departed before their time.

16. Heaven By Beyonce.

This song is a heartfelt tribute to loved ones who have passed away, written in the wake of her father’s death. Beyonce sings of her hope that those she has lost are now happy in heaven and remembers them fondly.

Although this song is about grief and loss, it ultimately conveys a sense of comfort and peace for the listener. She conveys the idea that death is a part of life and should be accepted as such, but also that our loved ones never truly leave us.

Her poetic lyrics and powerful vocals create a beautiful tribute to her loved ones and serve as a reminder of their everlasting presence in her heart.

17. Heaven Needed A Hero By Jo Dee Messina.

Heaven Needed A Hero is a song by Jo Dee Messina, released in 2002. The track depicts the sorrow and grief of losing a loved one, as seen through the eyes of those left behind.

With touching lyrics such as “The angels came down from Heaven’s gate/and took away my hero no questions asked”, the song paints a powerful picture of those trying to cope with the passing of someone close.

The track expresses profound emotions such as sadness, heartache, and emptiness that can accompany death. It also celebrates love and memories of the deceased, remembering them as “a hero who made Heaven’s stairway/with all his strength and all his care”.

Heaven Needed A Hero serves as a reminder of the beauty, strength, kindness, and courage that one person can bring to the lives of others.

The song has become an anthem for those coping with bereavement, providing comfort in difficult times. It is a powerful reminder that even though someone may be gone, their spirit lives on within us.

Heaven Needed A Hero is a beautiful tribute to the loved ones we have lost, and serves as a reminder that they will always be in our hearts.

18. Here Without You by 3 Doors Down.

This song from the band’s 2002 album, Away From The Sun, captures the heartache of being separated from someone you love by death.

Lead singer Brad Arnold expresses the emptiness and confusion he feels as he comes to terms with his loss and contemplates how much he misses his loved one. In spite of this difficult situation, Arnold has hope that they will reunite in the afterlife.

The song has become an anthem for many people who have lost someone close to them and can relate to the feelings expressed by Arnold’s lyrics.

19. Highway to Hell by AC/DC.

This classic hard rock tune from AC/DC is an anthem for death and the journey to get there. Frontman Bon Scott sings about a person making a Faustian bargain, exchanging their soul for the ultimate reward of eternal damnation.

The song is known as one of AC/DC’s signature songs, and its pro-death message has inspired generations of rock fans.

20. Holes In The Floor Of Heaven By Steve Wariner.

This powerful and poignant song tells the story of a man who lost his son in a tragic accident. The father is haunted by the memory of his son’s death, and he wonders how he can ever cope with such a devastating loss.

With lyrics like “When I look up to the sky I see holes in the floor of heaven,” this heartbreaking ballad captures the overwhelming grief of losing someone you love.

The emotions conveyed in this song are sure to strike a chord with anyone who has ever experienced the loss of a loved one. It’s no wonder why this classic tune still resonates with people today.

21. Hurt By Christina Aguilera.

The song was featured on the 2002 album Stripped and it talks about life being hard and nothing everlasting forever. It is a beautiful but sad song that speaks of pain, heartache, loss, and death.

The lyrics reflect on personal issues such as depression, fear, lack of faith in oneself, self-loathing, and ultimately death.

The chorus of the song “I’m so hurt, why do I put up these walls? I still remember it all…” paints a vivid picture of how difficult it can be to move on after suffering loss.

The message of the song is clear: life is not easy and death will come eventually, but we can try our best to make the most of it while we’re here.

The song is an emotional reminder that life can be difficult, but it is important to take time to grieve and move on with your life even if it doesn’t seem possible.

22. Hurt by Johnny Cash.

This is one of the most iconic songs about death, released in 2003 by legendary musician Johnny Cash. It talks about the pain and suffering of life, ultimately leading to death. The lyrics focus on themes of loneliness, acceptance, faith and hope.

With lines like “I hurt myself today/To see if I still feel” and “But I still haven’t found what I’m looking for” the song is a powerful and emotive take on mortality.

The song was originally written by Nine Inch Nails frontman Trent Reznor, but Cash’s version has become iconic in its own right. It reached number 30 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and went gold in 2004.

23. I Can Only Imagine by MercyMe.

This song speaks of what it will be like to experience Heaven after death. It references how the singer wishes he could see his father again and reunite with him in Heaven.

The chorus talks about how amazing that moment would be, as the singer imagines a reunion with Jesus: “I can only imagine what it will be like when I walk by Your side, I can only imagine what my eyes will see when Your face is before me.”

It’s an uplifting song that speaks of the hope and joy that comes after death in Heaven.

24. I Shot The Sheriff by Eric Clapton.

This song tells the story of a man who is accused of a crime he didn’t commit and decides to take matters into his own hands. Clapton’s bluesy guitar playing provides an effective backdrop to the story as it unfolds.

The lyrics make reference to death, with lines like “I shot the sheriff but I did not shoot no deputy.” While some may interpret the song as being about a man taking justice into his own hands, it’s more likely that Clapton was singing about needing to escape from an unjust situation.

The message of this song is clear: sometimes we have to take drastic measures to survive and protect ourselves. This message resonates through many different genres and songs about death.

25. I Will Follow You Into the Dark by Death Cab for Cutie.

This 2002 acoustic love ballad by Death Cab for Cutie frontman Ben Gibbard is a gentle ode to everlasting devotion in the face of death.

Gibbard wrote the song after the passing of his grandparents, imagining their spirits joining together even in death. Its simple melody and poignant lyrics make it an emotional and beautiful tribute to those we’ve lost.

26. I Will Not Say Goodbye by Danny Gokey.

This song is all about life and death, and how difficult it can be to let go of a loved one who has passed away. The chorus emphasizes the importance of living in the moment and cherishing memories rather than being consumed by grief.

It’s an uplifting reminder that although death is inevitable, we can still find beauty and peace in the moments we share with those who are gone.

27. I’ll Be Missing You by Puff Daddy feat Faith Evans and 112.

This song is a tribute to the late rapper Notorious B.I.G., who passed away in 1997. The track samples “Every Breath You Take” by The Police, and features an interpolation of the melody from Stevie Wonder’s “Ribbon in the Sky”.

Faith Evans sings about her loss and longing for her lover, while Puff Daddy raps his own tribute to Biggie. The song became a huge hit, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for eleven weeks and winning a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.

28. I’ll Fly Away by Gillian Welch Alison Kraus (Written by Hank Williams).

The song is about a person preparing for death, looking forward to the afterlife and singing, “I’ll fly away, Oh Glory!/ I’ll fly away (in the morning).”

It speaks of hope in leaving this life, finding comfort in knowing that they will eventually be free from pain and sorrow.

29. I’ll Stay With You by Beth Hart.

This melancholic song plays on the idea of someone who is dealing with grief. The lyrics express how the singer wants to stay with their deceased loved one and comfort them, despite being unable to do so physically anymore. It’s an emotionally charged song that many find moving and relatable during times of loss.

30. I’m Not Lisa By Jessi Colter.

Released in 1975, I’m Not Lisa is a classic country song written and performed by Jessi Colter. It tells the story of a woman whose beloved left her for another woman named Lisa, but she’s determined to prove that she is not like her rival.

A heartrending yet uplifting tune about death of love, it stands out as one of the most iconic songs about death to ever come out of Nashville.

This classic country song is an anthem for those who have been through a broken heart, with its powerful lyrics and heartfelt delivery. A true classic that will never go out of style, I’m Not Lisa is sure to stand the test of time.

31. If I Die Young by The Band Perry.

This country ballad tells the story of a woman who has accepted her inevitable death in a very peaceful way. The song speaks of how she hopes to be remembered fondly, and that if her life was cut short, it was part of God’s plan.

This is one of the most poignant songs about death as it highlights both the sadness and peace that come with accepting the reality of death.

32. If Tomorrow Never Comes by Garth Brooks.

The song is about a man who realizes that he needs to tell his loved one how much he cares for her in case tomorrow never comes.

The lyrics are poignant and tell the story of how death can come at any time, so it is important to make the most of every day.

33. In Loving Memory By Alter Bridge.

This is a song that addresses the grief of losing someone close to you. The lyrics speak of not being able to let go and having to learn how to cope with the pain of their absence.

With heartfelt emotion, it speaks of a longing for just one more day with the person they have lost. In its chorus, it articulates the sadness and emptiness of the situation, singing “We’ll live in loving memory…take me home again.”

This song conveys the raw emotions that accompany death and serves as an anthem for those who have had to say goodbye to someone they loved.

34. Into The West By Annie Lennox.

This classic Lord of the Rings song is a solemn and beautiful tribute to death. The lyrics explore grief, memory, and the idea that those who pass away aren’t really gone at all: “Lay down / Your sweet and weary head / Night is falling / You have come to journey’s end.”

The song carries a message of hope and comfort, assuring the listener that those who have gone will always remain in our hearts.

The lyrics are reflective and bittersweet, emphasizing the beauty of life while acknowledging its impermanence.

35. It’s The End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine) by R.E.M.

This is a popular song that reflects our overall feelings about death. The lyrics explore the meaning of life and death, as well as how we view the inevitability of both.

The chorus sums up our feelings of mortality with its catchy line: “It’s the end of the world as we know it, and I feel fine.”

The song’s message is that even in the face of death, we can still have peace and acceptance about life and its end.

36. Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door By Bob Dylan.

This 1973 classic has become a staple of the rock genre and is a song about death that many people can relate to. The song follows the story of a young boy who has been wounded in battle and is asking for someone to open up Heaven’s door so he can be allowed into its heavenly gates.

The lyrics tell of desperation, pain, and hopelessness in the face of death. The song has been covered many times since its initial release, always maintaining its power and universal resonance.

Its message is one of acceptance, understanding, and hope even in the face of death. Through it, Bob Dylan offers a perspective on mortality that can bring solace to those who grieve or are struggling with their own mortality.

It serves as a reminder that death is part of the cycle of life and can be embraced with grace and peace.

37. Last Kiss by Pearl Jam.

Written by lead singer Eddie Vedder, the song is a narrative of an accident in which two young lovers are killed. The song reflects on how the couple had so much life ahead of them and sadly died too soon.

It’s heartbreaking but also poetic as it reminds us not to take life for granted because we never know what can happen.

38. Let It Be by The Beatles.

The song was released in 1970, at the height of Beatlemania. This melancholy ballad has been interpreted as a message of comfort and hope for those who have suffered a loss.

The lyrics feature Paul McCartney singing about accepting death and being ready to face it when the time comes.

He expresses his wish that those left behind will find strength in his words and be able to “carry on” despite their grief. The song has become an anthem of hope for many, and its powerful message has been embraced by people around the world.

It is seen as a reminder that life goes on, even in the face of death. This beautiful song will always remain a classic and an enduring reminder to take life one day at a time and cherish every moment.

39. Live and Die by The Avett Brothers.

This song captures the dualistic nature of life and death, singing about how both are part of life’s journey. The chorus “Live and Die, Make up your mind” is a reminder that we must learn to accept both parts of life in order to live our best lives.

This song is a poignant reminder that life has its ups and downs, but that we can rise above it all with a steadfast resolve.

The Avett Brothers’ folk rock blend creates an uplifting atmosphere that is perfect for contemplating the profoundness of life in death.

40. Live Like You Were Dying by Tim McGraw.

Released in 2004, this single is about a man who finds out he has a terminal illness and chooses to live life to the fullest with his remaining days. The song speaks of how we should all strive to make the most of our lives as if every day could be our last.

41. My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion.

This song is about the loss of a loved one and the pain of remembering them after they are gone. The lyrics talk about how, “every night in my dreams, I see you, I feel you”, showing that even though someone has passed on, their memory will always live on in our hearts.

The powerful chorus line “My heart will go on and on” is a reminder that even though we may feel sadness and grief, life still goes on.

This song has become an anthem of hope for many people who have lost someone close to them, reminding us all that our loved ones are always with us in spirit.

42. My Immortal By Evanescence.

This emotional power ballad deals with the death of a loved one. Lead singer Amy Lee’s hauntingly beautiful vocals carry the song as she sings about her sorrow and longing for someone who has passed away.

The lyrics touch on the idea that the person will never come back, but they are still there in spirit, watching over us – “I will never let you go/ If you’re lost and alone, or you’re sinking like a stone/ Carry your heart into my bones.”

This powerful song has been used as an anthem to help people deal with the grief of losing someone they love. It reminds us that even when death takes away our loved ones, they will remain in our hearts forever.

43. One More Day by Diamond Rio.

This song is about a man who knows he is dying but desperately wishes for one more day to tell his loved ones how much he loves and appreciates them.

The narrator of the song hopes that when it’s time for him to go, he will have made sure that everyone knows how deeply he cares for them.

This song was released in 2001 and is a powerful reminder to cherish our loved ones while they are still here.

44. Only The Good Die Young by Billy Joel.

This iconic song about death was released in 1977 and addresses the premature passing of a loved one. The lyrics explore how life can be uncertain, and despite our best efforts, we can’t always protect ourselves or our loved ones from tragedy.

Joel’s song captures the anguish that comes with loss, as well as the feeling of helplessness in facing the inevitability of death.

The chorus has become a beloved mantra for those struggling to accept the reality of loss: “Only the good die young/ They never last.” This song acknowledges the sadness that comes with losing someone, but also finds strength in their memory and celebrates the life they had.

45. People Who Died by The Jim Carroll Band.

This song was released in 1980 as the lead single from their second album, Catholic Boy. The song is a tribute to those who were lost due to drug addiction, AIDS and other causes of death. The lyrics depict the singer’s sadness and frustration over how his friends’ lives ended so suddenly and at such an early age:

“There’s a place in the city

Where all the young men go

To die on a Saturday night

From a needle or a knife

Or just living wrong, yeah

It’s so sad how they died so young.

You can hear their mothers crying out loud

As they lay them down to rest in the ground.”

The song is a powerful reminder of the devastating impact that death can have on individuals and their families. It is also an ode to those who tragically died too soon, and serves as an important reminder of how fragile life can be.

The Jim Carroll Band’s music offers hope for the future, but it also acknowledges how difficult it can be to accept death when it comes too soon. As the chorus goes:

“People who died, we will remember you

We’ll never forget what you put us through

You were young and so full of life

But death came and took away your light.”

This song is a powerful reminder to cherish each moment we have with the ones we love, to never take life for granted, and to remember those we’ve lost. It also serves as a timely reminder that death can come suddenly, and that it is important to make the most of our lives while we still have them.

46. Ready to Die by The Notorious B.I.G.

This is one of the most iconic hip hop songs about death that exists. It was released in 1994 as part of his debut album, Ready to Die. The song details Biggie’s life leading up to his rise in popularity and paints a vivid picture of how he felt hopeless and ready to die before achieving fame.

The chorus of the song contains the poignant lyrics, “Life or death I’m ready to die, it’s a short life” and is supported by an ominous beat that conveys the feeling of impending doom.

The Notorious B.I.G.’s legacy lives on even after his untimely passing, and this song serves as a reminder of his lasting impact on hip-hop culture. The song inspires the listener to make a mark in life and not succumb to their struggles, no matter how dark times may be.

47. Remember Me by Miguel.

This heartfelt song was released in 2017 and is about Miguel remembering a loved one who has passed away. He reflects on all the memories they shared, vowing to keep them close in his heart forever.

The chorus of this song captures the struggle of accepting someone’s death: “It’s hard to say goodbye / It feels like I can’t breathe. / But I know you wouldn’t want me to cry, so I’ll just say, ‘Remember me.’”

With its raw emotion and powerful lyrics, this song is sure to bring comfort and solace to those who have experienced the death of a loved one.

48. Roses For The Dead By Funeral For A Friend.

The 2005 single “Roses For The Dead” from Welsh post-hardcore band Funeral For A Friend is a song of mourning and remembrance. Its lyrics, musings on the fleeting nature of life, capture the feeling of loss that many feel when someone they love has passed away.

A chilling refrain of “Nothing can save you, nothing can change you now” repeats throughout the song, symbolizing the helplessness of watching a loved one die.

The band’s heartfelt performance creates an atmosphere of sadness and sorrow that is hard to shake. It’s a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and how quickly it can be taken away from us.

49. See You Again by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth.

This song is a touching tribute to the late actor Paul Walker, and as such chronicles memories of someone who has passed away. The lyrics focus on how we may feel when we think about our loved ones who have gone away, but also offers comfort in knowing that they will always be with us in spirit.

Other songs in this genre include: “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas, “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, and “My Immortal” by Evanescence. All three of these songs explore themes of death and mourning while also offering hope for a reunion in the afterlife.

50. Slipped Away by Avril Lavigne.

This song tells the story of a person who has lost someone they love to death. In her lyrics, Lavigne croons about how she wishes that time could be reversed so that she could have another chance with her loved one and tell them how much she loves them.

The heartbreaking chorus shows just how devastating it is to lose someone close to you: “And now you’re in a better place/But I wish that I could see your face/Oh, I know you’re in a better place/But I wish that you would just slip away.” This tear-inducing song is the perfect way to express the pain and grief of losing someone to death.

51. Soil by System of A Down.

The song is about how death affects everyone, from the rich to the poor. Everyone has to confront death at some point in their life, and this song reflects on how it can be a harsh reality.

The lyrics speak of how the singer’s dreams have been buried “in the soil” along with his hope of ever seeing them come true, and how he must accept his mortality.

The song ends with an uplifting message to live life to the fullest, as death is inevitable. This song serves as a powerful reminder that life is too short, so cherish every moment and make it count.

52. Spirit in the Sky by Norman Greenbaum.

Released in 1969, this song has been covered by many different artists. It is a classic rock anthem that speaks of the afterlife and being welcomed into heaven after death.

The chorus goes: “When the world is through with me, I know my Lord will see me through, so don’t worry about me ’cause I’m gonna be up there in the spirit in the sky.”

The song is an uplifting and comforting ode to spirituality and the afterlife.

53. Supermarket Flowers By Ed Sheeran.

This song is a tribute to his late grandmother. It’s uplifting and heartbreaking at the same time, as it captures the emotions of saying goodbye to someone you love. The chorus gives a hopeful message: “And I’ll be singing this song for you/Well, it won’t be long now until we meet again/And I’ll be bringing you supermarket flowers.”

By using something as mundane as grocery store flowers, Sheeran conveys the idea that death is just part of life and the beauty in small moments we take for granted. It’s a powerful reminder to appreciate even the simplest things and spend time with those who matter while we can.

54. Tears In Heaven by Eric Clapton.

This song was written in honor of Clapton’s son, Conor who tragically died in a fall at the age of four. It is an emotionally charged and deeply sorrowful tribute to his little boy, talking about how life will never be the same without him.

The song expresses grief and longing for loved ones that have gone too soon, with its haunting lyrics, “Would you know my name / If I saw you in Heaven?” It is an immensely powerful song that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who hears it.

55. The Great Gig in the Sky by Pink Floyd.

From their critically acclaimed album The Dark Side of the Moon, this song is an emotional look at death and what might be beyond. Lead singer Clare Torry delivers a stunning vocal performance that captures the heartbreaking beauty of mortality.

With soulful lyrics like “And I am not frightened of dying/Any time will do, I don’t mind”, this timeless tune is a perfect choice for those looking to explore the subject of death through song.

56. The Greatest Man I Never Knew By Reba McEntire.

This song is a powerful and heartfelt tribute to Reba’s late father. It talks about how she never knew the kindness, love, understanding and support he could have given her in life but now wishes she had realized it when he was alive.

Despite this deep sadness, the song ultimately conveys a message of gratitude for all that her father did for her and how her life was changed because of him.

57. The Last Goodbye by Billy Boyd.

This song is featured in the Lord of the Rings film series, but it can also be interpreted as a heartfelt tribute to a lost loved one.

The lyrics tell the story of saying goodbye for one last time and accepting that death is inevitable. It reminds us all to cherish our memories with those we love and not take life for granted.

58. This Is Your Song By Ronan Keating.

Released in 2008, this song is a tribute to Keating’s late father who passed away from cancer. The lyrics are written as an ode to his father, and the emotion-filled track conveys the sentiment of saying goodbye.

It has become a popular choice for funerals and other commemorative events due to its powerful message.

59. This Song Is For My Mother By Catman Cohen.

This touching tribute to Catman Cohen’s mother is a song about his grief of losing her. He talks about how he wishes that he could tell her one more time how much he loved and appreciated her while she was alive.

He also shares the pain of not being able to say goodbye, which makes it all the more heartbreaking. The song is an emotional reminder to cherish and appreciate the time we have with those closest to us before it’s too late.

60. Time to Say Goodbye by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman.

This poignant and heartbreaking song is about saying goodbye to a loved one who is passing away. The lyrics are incredibly moving and it’s the perfect way to say goodbye to someone you care about.

This duet between Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman soars with emotion, making it an unforgettable ode to death.

61. Unchained Melody by The Righteous Brothers.

This classic love song has come to represent so much more since its release in 1955. It has become a mainstay at funerals, providing comfort and solace for those mourning the passing of a loved one.

While the lyrics don’t specifically mention death, they take on a whole new meaning when considering them in that context.

The singer yearns for a lost love and speaks of being “free” from his suffering. It captures the feelings of pain and release that come with saying goodbye to someone who has passed.

62. Until the Day I Die by Story Of The Year.

This song is about a person fighting through the hardest times, knowing that death will be the ultimate freedom. The chorus states, “I’m not afraid to die, I’m not afraid to bleed, until the day I die.”

This uplifting and inspiring song encourages us to embrace life while we still have it and look forward to finally finding peace in the afterlife.

63. Wake Me Up When September Ends by Green Day.

This is a well-known song from Green Day dealing with the death of frontman Billie Joe Armstrong’s father. The song was written as an anthem for those who are struggling to cope with their loss and seeking hope that it will eventually get better.

The title itself references the time when his father passed away in September, which makes this song even more poignant. The lyrics of the song express a deep emotional pain, both in its sadness and the longing for the person who is no longer here.

With a combination of beautiful melodies and heartbreaking words, this song has become an anthem for those dealing with grief and loss. It serves as a reminder that even though we may be struggling now, there will be a day when the pain will eventually end.

64. Where Were You (When The World Stopped Turning) By Alan Jackson.

This song was written shortly after the September 11th terrorist attacks and is a poignant reflection of loss and shock.

Jackson reflects on the events of that day and how it made him wonder where people were when this tragedy occurred.

It’s a beautiful tribute to those affected by the tragedy, and Jackson’s lyrics are incredibly powerful. He ends with the lines: “I’m just a singer of simple songs, I’m not a real political man. I watch CNN but I’m not sure I can tell you the difference in Iraq and Iran. But I know Jesus, and I talk to God, and I remember this from when I was young – faith, hope, and love are some good things He gave us all.”

In this song, Jackson reminds us of the importance of faith and love even in times of darkness. This is truly a timeless classic about death and loss.

65. Whiskey Lullaby by Brad Paisley and Alison Kraus.

This haunting country song tells a tragic story of hard times and heartache, based on a true story from the writers. It follows an unrequited love between two people, ending with one character taking their own life while their former lover sings them a whiskey lullaby.

The song speaks to the sadness that can come with death and the difficulty of letting go of someone we love. It is a heartbreaking reminder that death does not always come quickly and painlessly, but often involves long-lasting suffering for those left behind.

Combined with the soulful country twang provided by Paisley and Krauss, Whiskey Lullaby is sure to make you cry.

66. Who You’d Be Today By Kenny Chesney.

This poignant song, released in 2005, is a tribute to the singer’s late father who passed away when Chesney was 18. It reflects on how his life and the lives of those around him would be different had his father not died.

The song expresses regret at missed opportunities to spend time with his dad, while also expressing gratitude for having known him and the impact he had on Chesney’s life.

The song speaks to the universal emotions of grief and loss, while also celebrating the memory of a beloved family member.

While many songs about death are melancholy in tone, this song has an air of hope and optimism that serves as a reminder to make the most out of precious time with loved ones.

67. Wind Beneath My Wings by Bette Midler.

This classic song is a tribute to those we have lost in our lives. The lyrics speak of how much that person meant to us and how their spirit still lives on through us.

It’s an emotional ballad about cherishing the happy memories of someone who has passed away and letting them know they will always be loved.

Death is an unavoidable reality in life, and while it can be a difficult topic to address, music has long provided an avenue for mourning, reflection and the sharing of grief. A variety of musical styles have been used over the years to express emotions about death and dying.

From timeless classics like Elvis Presley’s “My Way” to more contemporary songs like “Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley, there is a wealth of music that speaks to the complexity and solemnity of mortality.

By exploring different genres and perspectives, we can gain insight into how people cope with loss, pay tribute to loved ones, and find solace in their grief. Music about death is an important part of our cultural heritage, and it can be a powerful tool for transitioning through difficult times. In the words of Robert Frost, “In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: It goes on.”

Music helps us to accept both death and life as they exist in their fullness. It can help us to make sense of loss, honor those who have passed, and find ways to keep moving forward.

Through its evocative lyrics, heartfelt melodies, and timeless messages, music about death is a reminder that life is precious — even in the face of our own mortality.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Alternative ways to discover music: beyond torrent sites, 8 (+5) romantic and beautiful songs to listen to together on valentine’s day, 7 tips for creating an amazing music video even if you’re on a tight budget, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

ZOOM Recording Studio: The Perfect Place To Create Exceptional Audio Content

What guitar does alex g play: unveiling the indie icon’s instrument of choice, examples of technology use in music classrooms, what guitar does colter wall play: unveiling the singer’s instrument of choice.

• Privacy Policy

35 Best Songs About Dealing with Grief and Loss

There might be affiliate links on this page, which means we get a small commission of anything you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please do your own research before making any online purchase.

In times of loss, words often fail to capture our painful experience. However, music can transcend this limitation.

Throughout history, songs have been used as a means of expressing the complex emotions brought about by grief. In this article, we’re sharing a collection of songs about grief to reflect on our experience of loss.

Each track provides a different perspective on how people grieve, their views of life in the absence of a loved one, and how they find healing after a loss.

We offer this collection as a means of solace. May it connect you with others who have experienced grief and found hope and comfort through music.

Table of Contents

1. Dancing in the Sky , Dani and Lizzy

“ ‘Cause here on Earth it feels like everything good is missing since you left. And here on Earth everything's different. There's an emptiness. ”

This song was written as a tribute to one of Lizzy’s friends. It is about the pain and emptiness felt when you lose a friend .

2. Tears in Heaven , Eric Clapton

“ Would you know my name if I saw you in heaven? Would you be the same if I saw you in heaven? ”

This song is a lament for the tragedy that befell Eric Clapton’s young son, who passed away when he was only four years old.

In it, Eric Clapton expresses his grief at not being able to be with his son again. He wonders if the bond he shared with him will remain the same when it’s time to meet again in heaven.

3. There You’ll Be , Faith Hill

“ In my dreams, I'll always see you soar above the sky. In my heart, there'll always be a place for you for all my life. I'll keep a part of you with me. And everywhere I am, there you'll be… ”

This song is about a promise to a departed loved one that their memory will be treasured. It also serves as a reminder for the living to keep their loved one’s memory close to their hearts.

4. Last Kiss , Pearl Jam

“ Oh, where oh where can my baby be? The Lord took her away from me. She's gone to heaven, so I got to be good so I can see my baby when I leave this world. ”

This song is a cover of Frank Wilson and The Cavaliers’ song with the same title.

In it, a man grieves for his beloved. He recalls the fateful night when a date ended in a fatal car accident where his loved one passed away.

The guy has lived with that painful memory of witnessing his loved one pass. All he can do now is wait for the time when they’ll be together again.

5. Against All Odds , Phil Collins

“ So take a look at me now. There's just an empty space. And there's nothing left here to remind me. Just the memory of your face. ”

In this song, a grieving guy mourns for a loved one, deeply feeling their absence from his life.

Although he has memories of the times they spent together, these aren’t enough to overcome his sorrow.

6. Fire and Rain , James Taylor

“ I've seen fire and I've seen rain. I've seen sunny days that I thought would never end. I've seen lonely times when I could not find a friend. But I always thought that I'd see you again. ”

Regret comes when someone we love is taken away so suddenly and we don’t get the chance to say our proper goodbye.

In this song, the narrator expresses his sadness at the suddenness of his friend’s passing.

7. Your Long Journey , Robert Plant and Alison Krauss

“ Oh, my darling, my darling, my heart breaks as you take your long journey. ”

Grief comes as lovers bid farewell to each other. One of them is dying and the other is faced with the reality that they’ll be alone when their loved one finally goes.

8. King of Sorrow , Sade

“ The DJ's playin' the same song. I have so much to do. I have to carry on. I wonder if this grief will ever let me go. I feel like I am the King of Sorrow, yeah. The King of Sorrow. ”

This song is a bitter reminder that, even though you grieve, life goes on for the rest of the world.

There are still bills to pay and chores to attend to. You do what you can to survive, even though grief cripples you and you feel you can’t go on.

9. A Long December , Counting Crows

“ A long December and there's reason to believe maybe this year will be better than the last. I can't remember the last thing that you said as you were leaving. Now the days go by so fast. ”

This song is about someone grieving for a friend who passed away one December day. Although time has passed, the sorrow from the loss continues.

10. When I Look to the Sky , Train

“ And as I float along this ocean, I can feel you like a notion that won't seem to let me go. ‘Cause when I look to the sky something tells me you're here with me and you make everything alright. And when I feel like I'm lost, something tells me you're here with me and I can always find my way when you are here. ”

One of the ways this song could be interpreted is that a person who has lost somebody close to them feels that their loved one is still with them.

They hold the memory close to their heart, providing solace in turbulent times.

11. Tracks of My Tears , Aretha Franklin

“ So take a good look at my face. You'll see that my smile seems out of place. And if you look closer, it's easy to trace the tracks of my tears. ”

In this song, a woman grieves over a broken relationship. She seems to have it all together, but upon closer inspection, traces of her grief are visible on her face.

12. Fix You , Coldplay

“ And the tears come streaming down your face. When you lose something you can't replace. When you love someone, but it goes to waste. Could it be worse? ”

The death of a loved one isn’t the only source of grief.

We suffer through many losses throughout our lives, and in each occasion we grieve. In this song, different kinds of loss are mentioned, each one bringing sadness.

13. Talking to the Moon , Bruno Mars

“ At night, when the stars light up my room, I sit by myself. Talking to the moon. Trying to get to you in hopes you're on the other side talking to me too. Or am I a fool who sits alone talking to the moon? ”

When we’re grieving, we often search for ways to connect with the one we’ve lost.

Sometimes, our actions may seem irrational to others. But like in this song, where the narrator talks to the moon to feel close to the person they love, it’s just a way to cope with grief.

14. In Loving Memory , Alter Bridge

“ I carry the things that remind me of you, in loving memory of the one that was so true. You were as kind as you could be. And even though you're gone, you still mean the world to me. ”

In this song, a person very close to the narrator has passed away. The narrator expresses his love and gratitude for this person.

He holds their memory close to his heart, thinking that no one compares to them.

15. Heaven Was Needing a Hero , Jo Dee Messina

“ I guess Heaven was needing a hero, somebody just like you. Brave enough to stand up for what you believe and follow it through. When I try to make it make sense in my mind, the only conclusion I come to Is that Heaven was needing a hero like you. ”

When a loved one passes away, we often look for a way to make sense of their absence from our lives. This is one of the ways we deal with grief.

In this song, the narrator believes that the reason their loved one passed away is because heaven needed them more. This makes it easier for the narrator to cope with the grief of losing a loved one.

16. Still Here , Natasha Bedingfield

“ You're still here with me all the time. You're still here. When I close my eyes, I still see you. I still feel you. ”

In this song, someone very close to the narrator is gone from her life. This person always saw the best in the narrator. Oftentimes, we grieve deeply for a lost loved one because of how much positive impact they made in our lives.

17. See the Sun , Dido

“ And you probably don't want to hear tomorrow's another day. Well I promise you you'll see the sun again. And you're asking me why pain's the only way to happiness. And I promise you you'll see the sun again. ”

This song offers comfort and assurance, reminding us that, even though we’re grieving and the pain seems unbearable now, it does get better in time.

It’s telling us that we will eventually learn to live with the grief.

18. Gone Too Soon , Michael Jackson

“ Like a sunset dying with the rising of the moon. Gone too soon. ”

This song is about one’s grief over the departure of a person who left them too soon. When a young person is taken from us, we tend to think that they could still have done so much for the world.

19. One More Day , Diamond Rio

“ Last night I had a crazy dream. A wish was granted just for me. It could be for anything. I didn't ask for money or a mansion in Malibu. I simply wished for one more day with you. ”

In this song, a person shares a wonderful dream he had, where he got to spend one more day with someone he loves.

Grief can cause people to struggle with moving on and finding peace after a loved one has passed away. In this song, the dream the narrator had is probably a way his mind copes with his loss.

20. Wave Goodbye , Chris Cornell

“ Every hurtful thing you ever said is ringing in your ear when you miss somebody. And every thing of beauty that you see only brings a tear when you miss somebody. When you miss somebody, you tell yourself everything will be alright. Try to stand up strong and brave when all you want to do is lay down and die. ”

Grief can manifest as different emotions: anger, sadness, fear, regret, and guilt. Sometimes, these heavy emotions are also punctuated by moments of happiness as you recall joyful memories about a loved one who has passed away.

And all these emotions are valid expressions of grief .

This song is about the welling up of different emotions triggered by the loss and associated grief.

21. If Heaven (Wasn’t So Far Away) , Rhett Atkins

“ If heaven wasn't so far away, I'd pack up the kids and go for the day. Introduce them to their grandpa, watch 'em laugh at the way he talks. ”

This song is about a grandson missing his departed grandfather. The bond of love they shared remained strong through the years.

Now that the grandson is a family man himself, he wishes that his kids had known his grandfather, who was a positive influence in his life.

This song is a reminder that, no matter how many years have passed since a loved one died, you’ll always miss them and wish you could share with them how you’ve been doing in life.

22. Chasing Shadows , Alex Warren

“ Oh, I'm running after something trying to catch your ghost. Holding onto pictures and the smell of your clothes. Feel you slippin' through my fingers. And I know I'll never reach you. ”

When people grieve, they sometimes long for anything familiar—such as a certain scent or a particular place—that they associate with a loved one who’s gone.

In this song, the narrator holds on to the memory of a departed loved one through pictures and the smell of their clothes.

23. How Can I Help You Say Goodbye? , Patty Loveless

“ And she said how can I help you to say goodbye? It's okay to hurt and it's okay to cry. Come, let me hold you and I will try. How can I help you to say goodbye? ”

One of the most devastating experiences people go through is the death of a parent. In this song, a mother helps her daughter cope with grief at different stages of her life.

From the daughter’s experience of saying goodbye to her first best friend to going through a divorce, the mother has always been there.

Now, as the mother lays on her deathbed, she hopes that she’s taught her daughter well in the art of goodbyes.

24. Radios in Heaven , Plain White T’s

“ Well, do they have radios in heaven? I hope they do 'cause they're playing my song on the radio and I'm singing it to you. ”

In this song, the narrator has someone in his life who passed away before he could become a success.

Now that he’s famous, the narrator just wants to share his happiness with and show his love to this person. He wishes that there were radios in heaven so the loved one who passed away could at least hear the narrator’s song being played.

25. I Grieve , Peter Gabriel

“ I grieve for you. You leave me. So hard to move on. Still loving what's gone. They say life carries on, carries on and on and on and on. ”

Grief can be paralyzing. It can take years to recover.

In this song, a person expresses how he feels so alone and can’t muster the will to move on after a loved one’s passing.

26. Even in Death , Evanescence

“ I will stay forever here with you, my love. The softly spoken words you gave me, even in death our love goes on. ”

This song’s haunting melody underscores a hopeful message conveyed to those who are grieving. It reassures listeners that the love between two people endures beyond death.

27. Save a Place for Me , Matthew West

“ Don't be mad if I cry. It just hurts so bad sometimes. ‘Cause everyday it's sinking in and I have to say goodbye all over again. ”

When we recall the memory of a departed loved one, it can often bring us to tears. That’s totally normal!

This song encourages listeners to never lose hope that they’ll one day be reunited with the people they love. It emphasizes the idea that love endures even in death.

28. To Where You Are , Josh Groban

“ Fly me up to where you are beyond the distant star. I wish upon tonight to see you smile. If only for a while to know you're there. A breath away's not far to where you are. ”

Grief is a universal emotion. It is normal to want to be with someone who’s no longer physically present in your life. In this heartfelt song, the narrator expresses a longing to be reunited with a loved one who passed away.

29. You Said You’d Grow Old With Me , Michael Schulte

“ One last word, one last moment to ask you why you left me here behind. You said you'd grow old with me. ”

This song has an accusatory tone that belies the grief the narrator feels over the death of someone dear to him.

Anger, loneliness, and sadness mingle because the narrator feels the one who passed away broke a promise—that they would grow old with him.

30. Cold , Jeff Williams ft. Casey Lee Williams

“ Now it's cold without you here. It's like winter lasts all year. But your star's still in the sky so I won't say goodbye. I don't have to say goodbye. ”

In this song, a person grieves the loss of someone they considered their mentor, hero, and friend. They are still in a state of denial, which is one stage of grief. They haven’t yet accepted that their friend is gone.

31. Tell Me I Was Dreaming , Travis Tritt

“ Tell me I was dreamin', that you didn't leave me here to cry. You didn't say you don't love me anymore. It was just my imagination tellin' lies. Tell me that you didn't say goodbye. ”

Dr. Elizabeth Kübler-Ross introduced the concept of the 5 Stages of Grief . The first stage is denial. In this song, we hear from a narrator who is in a state of denial about their loved one’s death.

He still has to go through anger, bargaining, and depression before he can accept the fact that his loved one is really gone.

32. Slipped Away , Avril Lavigne

“ The day you slipped away was the day I found it won't be the same. ”

This song was dedicated to Avril Lavigne’s grandfather. The singer was on tour when her grandfather passed away.

It’s about the suddenness of death, and about missing our loved ones who have passed away, realizing that life won’t be the same now that they’re gone.

33. The Hardest Part , Coldplay

“ And the hardest part was letting go, not taking part. You really broke my heart, oh. And I tried to sing, but I couldn't think of anything. And that was the hardest part, oh, oh. ”

Grief immobilizes us. This song describes the paralyzing pain that sinks in when we think of those loved ones who are no longer part of our lives.

34. Supermarket Flowers , Ed Sheeran

“ Oh, I'm in pieces, it's tearing me up, but I know a heart that's broke is a heart that's been loved. ”

The good memories we have of someone who passed away can sustain us through the grieving period.

In this song, a son does some clearing up after having buried his mother. He breaks down because of his grief.

Nevertheless, he thinks that he’ll be all right, since he knows how much his mother loved him.

35. Here Without You , 3 Doors Down

“ I'm here without you, baby, but you're still on my lonely mind. I think about you, baby, and I dream about you all the time. I'm here without you, baby, but you're still with me in my dreams. And tonight, it's only you and me. ”

This song is a reminder that grief doesn’t really ever go away. The memory of a loved one who is no longer part of your life can cause pain, especially in moments when you thought you’d finally be okay.

Final Thoughts on Songs About Grief

There you have it—a collection of songs about grief that express the all-too human experience of loss.

We hope that the songs featured here can provide comfort, a sense of connection to those who are also grieving, and a way to peace.

May you be healed of your sorrow and pain. May you find the strength to move forward, with the beautiful memories of your loved one to sustain you.

Finally, if you are looking for more collections of songs about specific topics, feel free to check out the following posts:

• 21 Best Songs About Losing a Friend
• 35 Best Songs About Unrequited Love
• 45 Best Songs About Death to Reflect on the Meaning of Life

Alot Living > Entertainment

The Top 20 Journey Songs, Ranked

For fans of classic rock and those nostalgic for the golden era of Journey, there's something magical about revisiting the iconic hits that defined a generation. From anthems of love and heartache to anthems of resilience and hope, Journey's music has left a mark on the hearts and minds of listeners worldwide.

Here, we’ll embark on a journey (pun intended) to rank the top 20 Journey songs of all time. Drawing upon sales certifications, Billboard Hot 100 rankings, and the timeless appeal of each track, we'll look into the band's rich discography to celebrate the songs that have stood the test of time.

Whether you're reminiscing about belting out "Don't Stop Believin'" while it blasted from your Walkman or looking back on a summer fling while listening to “Stone in Love,” Journey's music has a way of transcending generations and resonating with fans of all ages.

So, grab your air guitar and get ready to sing along as we count down the greatest hits from one of the most beloved bands in rock history.

20. “Walks Like a Lady”

• Album: Departure
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 32

"Walks Like a Lady,” released in 1980 as part of the album "Departure," is a classic rock anthem known for its energetic guitar riffs and soulful message. With its driving rhythm and Steve Perry's strong vocals, the song describes the magnetic power and complexities of women.

19. “After The Fall”

• Album: Frontiers
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 23

"After the Fall" is a poignant ballad exploring post-breakup emotions. It spent 12 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100’s Chart! Steve Perry's emotive vocals convey themes of heartbreak, reflection, and resilience. The song dives into the aftermath of a relationship, portraying vulnerability and eventual strength, showcasing Journey's emotional depth and melodic prowess.

18. “Still They Ride”

• Album: Escape
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 19

This song tells the story of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. With its melodic hooks and Steve Perry's impassioned vocals, the song chronicles the journey of individuals overcoming challenges, and holding onto hope despite the odds. It's a testament to resilience and the human spirit's ability to endure hardships.

17. "Suzanne"

• Album: Raised on Radio
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 17

"Suzanne" is a heartfelt ballad expressing longing and devotion. Steve Perry's soulful vocals convey a man’s deep affection for Suzanne, a woman he can’t have. The song captures the essence of romantic yearning, evoking emotions of love and longing with its melodic arrangement and poignant lyrics.

16. “Be Good to Yourself”

• Hot 100 Peak Position: 9

"Be Good to Yourself" made its way to the top 10 of the Billboard Top 100 list for a reason– it’s an uplifting anthem about self-care! With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, the song encourages listeners to prioritize their well-being and pursue their dreams, serving as a reminder to cherish oneself amidst society’s challenges.

15. “Send Her My Love”

"Send Her My Love" is a poignant ballad about longing and regret. Penned by band members Steve Perry, Jonathan Cain, and Neal Schon, the song reflects on a lost love, with the vocalist stating that the girl he loved “needed so much more” than he could give. It’s based on a teenage breakup that Cain experienced– ouch!

14. “Girl Can’t Help It”

This rock anthem celebrates the irresistible allure of a captivating woman. With its infectious rhythm and catchy hooks, the lyrics embody the bittersweet love of a couple who return to each other after a breakup. The man in the song has a “fire in his eyes” for the woman who just can’t help the fact that she needs more.

13. “I’ll Be Alright Without You”

• Hot 100 Peak Position: 14

The aftermath of a breakup is discussed in "I'll Be Alright Without You.” The song's lyrics suggest a sense of resignation and acceptance, with the protagonist acknowledging the pain of separation but also expressing determination to move forward and find solace in independence. This heartfelt ballad that resonates with those experiencing the end of a relationship.

12. "Only the Young"

• Album: Vision Quest

"Only the Young" reflects on the resilience of youth and the pursuit of dreams. The first person to hear the song after its creation was 16-year-old Journey fan Kenny Sykaluk through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, one day before his untimely death. It conveys a message of hope and perseverance, urging young listeners to stay strong in the face of challenges.

11. “Stone in Love”

Possessing one of Journey’s many Platinum awards, “Stone in Love” describes the feeling of falling in love, likening it to being “stoned,” or intoxicated by love. The song captures the excitement, passion, and energy of newfound, summer romance. It's a celebration of the joy and thrill that young love brings!

10. “When You Love a Woman”

• Album: Trial by Fire
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 12

"When You Love a Woman" is a tender ballad exploring the depth of love and the commitment it entails. The song delves into the complexities of relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication, understanding, and cherishing each other's presence. It conveys a heartfelt message about the transformative power of love and the willingness to overcome obstacles together.

• Album: Infinity
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 68

“Lights” was one of the first songs that Steve Perry wrote for Journey. Originally written about Los Angeles, Perry eventually changed the lyrics to be about San Franciso. Interpretations suggest it's a reflection on returning home after being gone, capturing the sense of belonging and comfort found in familiar surroundings. This song eventually became a staple on every “Oldies” radio station.

8. “Wheel in the Sky”

• Hot 100 Peak Position: 57

This song was the first Journey song to ever make the Hot 100 list– and for good reason! The lyrics stem from a poem that bass player Ross Valory’s wife, Diane, wrote about the longing she felt for her husband while he was on tour. Valory then revamped the poem to be about missing Diane while on the road, reflected in the lyrics: “Haven’t been home in a year or more, I hope she holds on a little longer.” How sweet!

7. “Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'”

• Album: Evolution
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 16

This song describes the heartbreak and confusion that comes with being cheated on, with the song’s first lines being “You make me weep and wanna die.” Inspired by Steve Perry’s life, this blues-esque rock anthem convey the depth of infidelity and the turmoil it causes.

6. “Who’s Crying Now”

• Hot 100 Peak Position: 4

This chart topper is a poignant ballad featuring Steve Perry's emotive vocals and Neal Schon's melodic guitar. Lyrically, it discusses the complexities of a troubled relationship, with the protagonist pondering who bears the most pain amidst the turmoil, resonating with listeners seeking solace in heartfelt music.

5. “Any Way You Want It”

"Any Way You Want It" is a feel good anthem released in 1980. It's known for its infectious energy, catchy guitar riffs, and memorable chorus. The song expresses a sense of freedom and spontaneity in love, with the protagonist proclaiming their willingness to adapt to their partner's every whim.

4. “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)”

• Hot 100 Peak Position: 8

"Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" is characterized by its energetic rhythm, catchy synthesizer riff, and Steve Perry's powerful vocals.The song speaks about the end of a relationship and the emotional fallout. The song became a signature hit for Journey, known for its memorable hook and anthemic quality.

3. “Open Arms”

• Hot 100 Peak Position: 2

This chart topper camped out on the #2 spot of the Billboard Hot 100’s list for a shocking 6 weeks! The lyrics detail the efforts to reignite a relationship between two people who have drifted apart. The singer says, “now I come to you, with open arms, nothing to hide, believe what I say.” A sweet power ballad, this song welcomes listeners with open arms.

3. “Faithfully”

"Faithfully" is a power ballad that explores the challenges and rewards of life on the road for a touring musician. Written by Jonathan Cain, it reflects on the sacrifices made in pursuit of a dream, particularly the strain it places on relationships. Steve Perry's emotive vocals convey the longing for connection despite physical distance, making it a timeless anthem of devotion and dedication.

1. “Don’t Stop Believin'”

The most iconic Journey song, “Don’t Stop Believin’” hasn’t stopped gracing the airways since its release in 1981. This song shot up to the 9th postion on the Top 100s list and stayed on the Billboard 200’s list for 700 weeks! The biggest song of all time, it has sold a stunning 20 million units.

Read these next

35 hit songs musicians came to regret, 40+ crankiest musicians of all time, ranked.

From the timeless classics to today’s trends, we love all things pop culture here at Alot Living! Movies, TV, music, fashion—we’ve got a little something for everyone. Whether you want to take a walk down memory lane or explore the next big thing, we’re ready to help you do it all and much more at Alot Living!

• Historical References In Famous Songs We Didn’t...
• 14 Songs You Didn't Know Were About Other Celeb...
• The Dark True Stories That Inspired 14 Famous S...
• 10 Songs We Were Surprised Were Controversial
• Famous Songs With Surprising Back Stories
• 14 Popular Songs That Aren't About What You Thi...
• 15 Love Songs You Never Realized Are Super Dark...
• Songs That Were Total Ripoffs

The Best Journey Songs Of All Time

What is Journey's biggest hit? Here are the best Journey songs of all time, ranked by fans everywhere. Journey are indisputably known as one of the greatest rock bands to ever walk the Earth, with former lead singer Steve Perry even crowned "the voice" by many industry moguls. Established in San Francisco, CA, in 1973, Journey has sold out countless concert tours worldwide throughout their five decade career. The arena rock band's legendary music and unparalleled performance style ultimately led to their Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2017. Some of Journey's top songs include "Don't Stop Believin'" ( Escape , 1981), "Any Way You Want It" ( Departure , 1980), "Lights" ( Infinity , 1978), "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" ( Frontiers , 1983), and "Wheel In The Sky" ( Infinity , 1978).

From their new and latest music to their older popular songs, this Journey playlist features all of their greatest hits, according to the fans. Do your favorite Journey songs crack the top 10? Vote up the best songs by Journey, and don't forget to show their underrated tracks love as well.

Best Lyrics:

And being apart ain't easy on this love affair Two strangers learn to fall in love again I get the joy of rediscovering you Oh girl, you stand by me I'm forever yours, faithfully

Don't Stop Believin'

Strangers waiting Up and down the boulevard Their shadows searching in the night Streetlights, people Living just to find emotion Hiding somewhere in the night

Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

Someday, love will find you Break those chains that bind you One night will remind you How we touched and went our separate ways

If he ever hurts you True love won't desert you You know I still love you Though we touched and went our separate ways

Stone in Love

In the heat with a blue jean girl Burning love comes once in a lifetime She found me singing by the rail road tracks Took me home, we danced by the moonlight

Those summer nights are calling Stone in love Can't help myself, I'm falling

Feeling That Way

Opened my eyes to a new kind of way All the good times that you saved Are you feeling You feeling that way too Or am I just Am I just a fool

When the lights go down in the City And the sun shines on the bay Ooh, I wanna be there in my City, oh Oh, oh, oh

Send Her My Love

Callin' out your name I'm dreamin' Reflections of a face I'm seein' It's her voice That keeps on haunting me

Send her, send her my love Roses never fade Memories remain

Wheel in the Sky

Winter is here again, oh lord Haven't been home in a year or more I hope she holds on a little longer Sent a letter on a long summer day Made of silver, not of clay I've been runnin' down this dusty road

Wheel in the sky keeps on turnin' I don't know where I'll be tomorrow

Still They Ride

Spinning 'round, in a spell It's hard to leave this carousel 'Round and 'round And 'round and 'round

Still they ride, on wheels of fire They rule the night Still they ride, the strong will survive Chasing thunder

Any Way You Want It

She said, any way you want it That's the way you need it Any way you want it

I was alone I never knew What good love could do Ooh, then we touched Then we sang About the lovin' things

Who's Crying Now

One love, feeds the fire One heart, burns desire I wonder who's crying now? Two hearts, born to run Who'll be the lonely one? I wonder who's crying now?

Girl Can't Help It

If he could hold her, so close in his arms again If she could show him The letter her heart forgot to send why They're livin' dreams on their own Ooh they'll never stop running

The girl can't help it, she needs more He hasn't found what he's lookin' for They're still standing in the rain He can't help it, and she's just that way

Only the Young

Shadows of a golden age A generation waits for dawn Brave carry on Bold and the strong

Only the young can say They're free to fly away Sharing the same desire Burnin' like wildfire

Ask The Lonely

You've got some fascination With you high expectations This love is your obsession Your heart, your past possession Let down your defenses Won't be up to the one who cares

Just The Same Way

Take a chance now the timing's right. You're free to leave the key to my life. Stay with me. Won't you stay the night, In the mornin' feelin' fine, yeah.

That's the same way you love me. 

Be Good To Yourself

Runnin' out of self-control Gettin' close to an overload Up against a no win situation Shoulder to shoulder, push and shove I'm hangin' up my boxin' gloves I'm ready for a long vacation

Be good to yourself when, nobody else will Oh be good to yourself You're walkin' a high-wire, caught in a crossfire

Touchin', Lovin', Squeezin'

It won't be long, yes, till you're alone When your lover, oh, he hasn't come home 'Cause he's lovin' who he's touchin', he's squeezin' another

He's tearin' you apart Ooh, every day, every day

I'll Be Alright Without You

I'll be alright without you Oh love's an empty face, I can't replace (You don't need it) People wonderin' why we broke apart The great pretender here I go again These things I do (It's all because of you) I'll keep holdin' but I'll try (Try not to think of you)

Mother, Father

Through bitter tears And wounded years, those ties Of blood were strong So much to say, those yesterdays So now don't you turn away.

Hey, mother, father, sister Hey, come back, tryin', believein' Hey, mother, father, dreamer

When You Love A Woman

When you love a woman You see your world inside her eyes When you love a woman (Well) You know she's standing by your side A joy that lasts forever There's a band of gold that shines Waiting somewhere, oh, yeah

The Party's Over (Hopelessly In Love)

So I will tell you this, Our love is in a fix. Just what more can I do. When I'm hopelessly in love with you?

I see your face at the movies I hear your voice on the radio You're making love on the silver screen I want you more than you will ever know Temptation...Infatuation

Suzanne, don't walk away

After The Fall

But a head strong stubborn man Only works it out the best he can Valentines he never sent There's not enough time he's a working man

Can't stop falling Heartaches calling Finds you after the fall

Why Can't This Night Go On Forever

Lost in twilight, the memories Precious moments, you and me We've been old friends, all through the years Picture postcards, sharing tears

What's in our hearts, there's never time, to say Need you tonight, lover don't fade away I've seen your city lights As I walk away Why can't this night...go on forever

After All These Years

A faded wedding photograph You and me in our first dance Our eyes are closed We're lost in one sweet embrace Since those days the world has changed But our love remains the same God knows we've had our share of saving grace

Where Were You

I didn't know what the hell was goin' on, Someday you're gonna break. So don't try to get yourself straight, You're just a little too late.

• Classic Rock

• Songs About Death

60 Great Songs About Death to Help You Grieve

Updated 04/22/2024

Published 10/4/2019

Erin Coriell, BA in Mass Communication/Media Studies

End-of-life care educator and grief worker

Cake values integrity and transparency. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure .

Music helps us get through the tough times. Much like the memories of our deceased loved ones, music carries on for generations. Whether we are facing our own mortality or the death of a loved one or friend, music can bring us peace. 

Through music, we can find quiet reflection to express and feel our emotions. It guides us on a journey of memories and it reminds us that we are not alone. Light a candle, find a relaxing seat, queue up the playlist, and allow these songs to ease your mind and heart. 

Tip: If you recently lost a loved one, our post-loss checklist can help you sort through the complicated tasks and challenges you might be facing. 

Jump to these sections: 

Best new songs about death.

• Best Sad Songs About Death

Best Happy Songs About Death

• Best Upbeat Songs About Death

Best Calming Songs About Death

Best angry songs about death.

Death is a topic that is ever on our minds, and musicians don't disappoint when it comes to expressing the longing, hurt, and grief we all experience. Here are some of the most recent songs about death that have come out.

1. "Ghostin" by Ariana Grande

Grande speaks about the ripple effect mourning and loss can have on a person's life.

Listen on YouTube

2. "When I Get To Heaven" by John Pine

This song imagines what heaven will be like.

3. "Ghost" by Justin Bieber

Bieber's deeply emotional song speaks about the pain of losing someone we love.

4. "The Ones That Didn't Make It Back Home" by Justin Moore

Moore pays tribute to soldiers who served their country and died in the line of duty.

5. "Drowning" by Chris Young

This song was written in tribute to friends of the band who passed away at a young age.

6. "everything i wanted" by Billie Eilish

In this song, Eilish sings about a dream in which she died.

7. "Marjorie" by Taylor Swift

Swift wrote this song in tribute to her grandmother who passed away.

8. "Give Heaven Some Hell" by Hardy

This song is sung with a tear and a smile as the singer tells his deceased loved one to live it up in heaven.

9. "Play This When I'm Gone" by Machine Gun Kelly

This is a message from the singer to his friends and loved ones in case something unexpectedly happens to him.

10. "death bed (coffee for your head)" by Powfu

This song is sung from the perspective of a person who is passing away.

Best Sad Songs About Death 

Sadness is one of the most common emotions when it comes to death. It's important to honor our sadness and allow ourselves to lean into the sadness of death. 

11. “Tears In Heaven” by Eric Clapton 

A reminder that it’s okay to cry and grieve the loss of a loved one. 

12. “I’ll Be Missing You” by Diddy, Faith Evans, 112

A popular 90’s song about turning back time and the shock that death can bring. 

13. “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion

A classic song that reminds us that love carries on beyond death. 

14. “Wake Me Up When September Ends” by Green Day

Death can sometimes feel like a heavy weight on our shoulders and that’s okay. 

15. “Fire and Rain” by James Taylor 

Written by James Taylor in 1970 after finding out about the loss of a good friend. His family attempted to keep this secret and Taylor expresses his feelings about it.  

16. “Hurt” by Johnny Cash

A somber ballad about loneliness and guilt that can occur when facing death. The original is by Nine Inch Nails, but we found the Johnny Cash cover pulled on the heartstrings a bit harder. 

17. “Whiskey Lullaby” by Brad Paisley and Alison Kraus 

A heart-chilling story of a wife losing her husband and facing her own death. 

18. “Angel” by Sarah McLachlan 

Grab some tissues for this one! It’s a heartbreaking song of hope and comfort in a time of deep sorrow. 

19. “If Tomorrow Never Comes” by Garth Brooks 

This song explores the contemplation of death and the hope that our loved ones know how much we love them. 

20. “Time to Say Goodbye” by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman  

A sweet serenade that helps us come to peace with saying goodbye to a loved one at the time of death. 

Death doesn’t always have to be somber. It is a part of life and in some cultures, it's often celebrated.  

21. “Only The Good Die Young” by Billy Joel 

Billy Joel wrote this song as a lighthearted reminder to live life to the fullest.

22. “Beloved” by Mumford & Sons 

A beautiful, upbeat song that reminds us to leave no words left unsaid. 

23. “Spirit in the Sky” by Norman Greenbaum

A foot-tapping tune about facing our mortality and what might come of us after. 

24. “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan

A peaceful contemplation about confronting the fear of death. 

25. “Dream On” by Aerosmith 

A message to seize every moment and embrace life until the bittersweet end. 

26. “American Pie” by Don McLean 

An upbeat song about the death of three famous musicians and the music that lived on. 

27. “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth 

This song reminds us that a bond of love is never lost, even after death. 

28. “One More Day” by Diamond Rio 

This song expresses the desire we often face in hopes we can have one more day with our loved ones. 

29. “Live and Die” by The Avett Brothers 

A sweet song that reminds us that we all have death in common. 

30. “I’ll Fly Away” by Gillian Welch and Alison Kraus (Written by Hank Williams) 

A soothing, upbeat tune about embracing death when it arrives. 

If you're planning a celebration of life or memorial service with a virtual funeral planning service , such as GatheringUs , you can add these happy songs to your custom memorial slideshow or another part of the service.

Best Upbeat Songs About Death 

These tunes remind us that it's okay to add lightness and humor to the topic of death. 

31. “It’s The End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)” by R.E.M. 

A catchy tune that implies death is near and there is nothing to fear. 

32. “(I Just) Died in Your Arms Tonight” by Cutting Crew 

This popular 80’s song explored the little deaths we experience in life. 

33. “Last Kiss” by Pearl Jam 

An upbeat musical arrangement about losing a loved one in a fatal accident. 

34. “I Shot The Sheriff” by Eric Clapton 

A song that explores a battle of life and death between a sheriff and citizen. 

35. “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Oyster Cult 

An invitation for society to drop the taboo around death. 

36. “The Great Gig in the Sky” by Pink Floyd

This song doesn’t have lyrics because it’s intended to be a rhythmic exploration of death.   

37. “Driving Nails in My Coffin” by Ernest Tubb

 An old country classic that talks about becoming closer to death. 

38. “People Who Died” by The Jim Carroll Band 

It’s almost impossible not to tap your foot while listening to this graphic song about death. 

39. Highway to Hell by AC/DC 

This rock tune explores what being on a journey to hell might be like. 

40. “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen 

A song that explores impermanence and symbolizes that death is happening every moment. 

When death weighs heavy on your heart, crank up the volume and let these tunes soothe you. 

41. “I Will Follow You Into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie 

A sweet song to represent a special bond between a friend or lover. 

42. “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler 

A heartfelt song to remind our loved ones what they mean to us. 

43. “I’ll Stay With You” by Beth Hart

This song highlights the bond with a deceased loved one and suggests an afterlife. 

44. “Live Like You Were Dying” by Tim McGraw 

An invitation to live the life of our dreams before it’s too late. 

45. “Let It Be” by The Beatles 

This encouraging song reminds us that we can face death with peace and acceptance. 

46. “If I Die Young” by The Band Perry 

A young perspective on embracing death, detailing a beautiful reflection on life.  

47. “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers

A popular tune that transcends time and warms the heart. 

48. “The Last Goodbye” by Billy Boyd 

An emotional and heartfelt reflection on the final chapter of life. 

49. “I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe 

A religious song about someone embracing a continuation after death.  

50. “Remember Me” by Miguel 

This sweet lullaby became popular in the Pixar film, CoCo, where a little boy explores the Land of The Dead. 

Death is something that evokes a lot of emotions. It’s healthy to allow ourselves to tap into our anger around death. 

51. “Until the Day I Die” by Story Of The Year 

An angsty song that compares heartbreak to death. 

52. “Black Parade” by My Chemical Romance 

A son’s recount of his father talking to him about death. 

53. “Fade to Black” by Metallica 

This song explores feeling angry about life and calm about death. 

54. “Slipped Away” by Avril Lavigne 

Written for her grandfather, Avril Lavigne expresses her deep sadness and regret about his passing. 

55. “Ready to Die” by The Notorious B.I.G 

Speaks to murder and not being afraid to die out of spite. 

56. “Gone Away” by The Offspring 

A song that belts out about the pain and sting of death. 

57. “Here Without You” by 3 Doors Down

A song about loneliness and longing for someone who has died. 

58. “I Will Not Say Goodbye” by Danny Gokey 

This song gives us permission to stay in our grief for as long as we need. 

59. “Soil” by System of A Down 

A song that explores the emotional state of guilt and regret after the death of a close friend.  

60. “Dead” by My Chemical Romance 

Not all relationships end on a positive note at the time of death. This song explores the feelings of saying goodbye to someone you didn't like. 

Looking for more? Take a look at our picks for the best funeral songs for loved ones , too. 

Categories:

• Grief Support Groups

You may also like

42 Best Songs About Growing Up & Getting Older

50+ Best Funeral Songs of All-Time

50+ Beautiful Songs About Daughters

34 heartbreaking songs about losing a child.

90 Best Songs to Help with Grief, Loss, and Death

Losing someone or something you love is like having a piece of your heart ripped out, isn’t it? That’s where songs to help with grief come in. They don’t just fill the silence, they understand it. 

When Eric Clapton strums the first chords of “Tears in Heaven,” or Ed Sheeran tenderly unfolds “Supermarket Flowers,” you feel it deep down. You’re not just hearing a beautiful song. You’re connecting to a shared experience of emotional pain and the healing process.

Think about those tough times. The dark rooms you’ve sat in, playing the same sad song on repeat. Maybe it’s Avril Lavigne echoing your own grief. Or Green Day’s “When September Ends” bringing back memories of loss. 

These songs, they’re not just melodies. They’re life rafts in the ocean of grief. They remind us we’re not alone in feeling lost or broken. And isn’t it oddly comforting to know that someone, somewhere, turned their heartache into a melody that speaks right to your soul?

So, let’s go on this journey together. With a playlist of songs that understand the grieving process better than any words could. Songs that promise, in the midst of your darkest hours, you’ll find a glimmer of hope.

Table of Contents

Songs to Help with Grief: Classic and Timeless Songs

These songs are like old friends, timeless in their ability to comfort and heal. From the soulful melodies of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel to the poignant lyrics of “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton.

They all offer a familiar embrace, guiding us through the journey of grief with their enduring messages of hope and resilience.

1) “Fire and Rain” by James Taylor 

This song captures the essence of loss and the journey of healing, reflecting on Taylor’s personal experiences of tragedy and recovery.

2) “Last Kiss” by Pearl Jam 

A poignant tale of loss and love, this song resonates with anyone who has experienced the sudden departure of a loved one.

3) “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon & Garfunkel 

Offering a message of hope and support, this classic assures listeners that they are not alone in their times of hardship.

4) “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers 

A timeless reminder of the power of friendship and support during difficult times.

5) “Let It Be” by The Beatles 

This song delivers a comforting message of acceptance and finding peace amidst turmoil and uncertainty.

6) “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong 

A song that encourages listeners to find beauty and hope in the world, even in moments of sorrow.

7) “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole 

A beautiful tribute to everlasting love and memories that remain timeless even after someone has passed.

8) “The Rose” by Bette Midler 

A song about the resilience of love and the emergence of hope even after the harshest winters of loss.

9) “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King 

An anthem of enduring support and solidarity in the face of life’s challenges.

10) “Forever Young” by Rod Stewart 

A wishful ode to staying brave, joyful, and hopeful through all of life’s changes.

11) “The Living Years” by Mike + The Mechanics 

This song speaks to the importance of communication and understanding with loved ones before it’s too late.

12) “Somewhere” by Barbra Streisand 

A powerful ballad longing for a place where love and dreams are fulfilled, often associated with longing for those we’ve lost.

13) “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd 

A touching reflection on absence and the feeling of missing someone deeply.

14) “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother” by The Hollies

A song about the strength found in carrying each other’s burdens through tough times.

15) “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles

A hopeful tune signifying the end of a dark period and the beginning of better days.

16) “Time to Say Goodbye” by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman 

A moving farewell song that speaks to the heartache of parting but also the hope of meeting again.

17) “Smile” by Nat King Cole 

Encourages finding the strength to smile through pain and sorrow, highlighting resilience in adversity.

18) “In My Life” by The Beatles 

A reflective melody about cherishing memories and honoring the people who have impacted our lives.

19) “Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland 

A timeless song that evokes a sense of hope and yearning for a peaceful and happier place away from current troubles.

20) “Hurt” by Johnny Cash

Cash’s rendition adds a depth of raw emotion and reflection on life, loss, and regret.

21) “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler 

Celebrates the unseen heroes in our lives who lift us up during our lowest moments.

22) “No More Tears” by Ozzy Osbourne 

A song that expresses the pain of loss and the determination to carry on in spite of it.

Songs to Help with Grief: Contemporary Reflections

In this collection, modern voices like Ed Sheeran’s “Supermarket Flowers” and Linkin Park’s “One More Light” resonate with the current generation’s experiences of loss and healing. 

These songs, contemporary in sound but ageless in emotion, provide a relatable and comforting presence during times of grief .

23) “One More Light” by Linkin Park

Addresses the profound impact of a loss, emphasizing that every individual matters.

24) “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus

Inspires resilience and hope, acknowledging life’s struggles and the journey through them.

25) “If I Die Young” by The Band Perry

Reflects on the beauty and brevity of life, resonating with those experiencing untimely loss.

26) “Fly” by Celine Dion

Offers a comforting message about letting go and finding peace after a loss.

27) “Gone Too Soon” by Michael Jackson

A touching tribute to lives lost prematurely, capturing the sentiment of unexpected loss.

28) “Goodbye’s the Saddest Word” by Celine Dion

Emphasizes the emotional depth of saying farewell to a loved one.

29) “Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran

A personal, poignant reflection on the loss of a loved one and cherishing their memory.

30) “See You Again” by Carrie Underwood

Captures the feeling of longing and the hope of reuniting with lost loved ones.

31) “Who You’d Be Today” by Kenny Chesney

A contemplative song about missing someone and wondering about their life had they lived.

32) “Goodbye My Lover” by James Blunt

Deals with the deep personal loss and the lingering feelings of love and sorrow.

33) “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion

A powerful song about love living on despite death and separation.

34) “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton

A deeply moving and personal song about loss and the question of reuniting in the afterlife.

35) “Shine” by Take That

A song of encouragement and finding light in dark times.

36) “Live Like You Were Dying” by Tim McGraw

Encourages embracing life fully, often resonating with those who’ve experienced loss.

37) “Breathe Me” by Sia

Explores themes of vulnerability and seeking support in times of overwhelming emotional pain.

38) “The Prayer” by Andrea Bocelli and Celine Dion

A soulful request for guidance and protection during challenging times.

39) “How to Save a Life” by The Fray

Touches on themes of regret and the desire to have helped someone in distress.

40) “You Are Not Alone” by Michael Jackson

Offers a comforting message of companionship and support in times of loneliness and sorrow.

41) “Go Rest High on That Mountain” by Vince Gill

A song of farewell and peace, offering solace with its soothing melody and lyrics.

42) “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole

A hopeful song about a better place, offering comfort in its dreamlike vision of peace.

43) “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” by Pink Floyd

A tribute to a lost friend, reflecting on memories and impact.

44) “Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M.

An empathetic reminder that pain is universal, encouraging listeners to hold on through difficult times.

45) “Fix You” by Coldplay

Offers solace and support, aiming to uplift someone going through a hard time.

46) “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol

A song about cherishing moments with loved ones and the desire to pause time.

Songs to Help with Grief: Uplifting and Hopeful Tunes

Filled with messages of strength and optimism, this theme is a beacon of light amidst the shadows of sorrow. 

Songs like “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban and “Hero” by Mariah Carey serve as gentle reminders. That even in our darkest moments, there is hope and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

47) “You’ve Got a Friend” by Carole King

This song offers a message of unwavering support and friendship, reassuring those in grief that they are not alone.

48) “Hero” by Mariah Carey

Encourages finding inner strength and resilience in times of hardship and loss.

49) “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban

A powerful ballad about finding strength and inspiration in times of trouble.

50) “I Will Remember You” by Sarah McLachlan

A tender reminder to cherish memories of loved ones who have passed.

51) “Angel” by Sarah McLachlan

Offers solace with its soothing melody and lyrics, touching on themes of comfort and peace.

52) “Dance with My Father” by Luther Vandross

A heartfelt tribute to a lost father, reflecting on cherished memories and longing.

53) “Keep Holding On” by Avril Lavigne

Encourages perseverance and hope during difficult times.

54) “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack

An uplifting song that inspires hope and the embracing of life’s possibilities.

55) “Heaven” by Bryan Adams

Reflects on the pain of loss but also the hope of an eternal connection.

56) “Only Time” by Enya

A soothing melody that brings a sense of peace and the passage of time in healing wounds.

57) “Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M.

58) “to where you are” by josh groban.

A touching song about feeling close to someone who has passed away.

59) “Beautiful Day” by U2

Inspires optimism and finding beauty in life despite challenges and loss.

60) “I Believe I Can Fly” by R. Kelly

A song about believing in oneself and overcoming obstacles, even in the darkest times.

61) “The Show Must Go On” by Queen

An anthem of resilience and facing adversity despite personal loss.

62) “Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane

Captures the longing for a place of comfort and familiarity during times of change.

63) “Better Days” by Goo Goo Dolls

Offers hope for brighter times ahead, even after periods of sorrow.

64) “Into My Arms” by Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds

A soulful plea for comfort and love in times of deep sorrow.

65) “True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper

A song about love and acceptance, revealing the true strength that lies within during tough times.

66) “Fields of Gold” by Sting

A serene and nostalgic song, reflecting on the beauty and preciousness of life’s moments.

67) “Love Will Keep Us Alive” by Eagles

Speaks to the enduring power of love to sustain us through the toughest times.

68) “The Heart of the Matter” by Don Henley

Focuses on forgiveness, healing, and moving forward after loss.

69) “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley

A song of reassurance with its famous lyric “every little thing is gonna be alright.”

70) “In the Arms of the Angel” by Sarah McLachlan

A comforting song often associated with solace and peace during times of loss.

Songs to Help with Grief: Songs for Remembrance and Tribute

This theme is a heartfelt homage to loved ones lost, with each song serving as a tribute to cherished memories and unbreakable bonds. 

From the haunting beauty of “My Immortal” by Amy Lee of Evanescence to the reflective calm of “In the Arms of the Angel” by Sarah McLachlan, these songs help us celebrate lives well-lived and love everlasting.

71) “I’ll Be Missing You” by Puff Daddy and Faith Evans

A tribute to a lost loved one, blending a sense of longing with remembrance.

72) “Candle in the Wind” by Elton John

A moving tribute originally written for Marilyn Monroe and later re-written for Princess Diana, evoking the fragility of life.

73) “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan

A poignant reflection on mortality and the transition to the afterlife.

74) “Wake Me Up When September Ends” by Green Day

A song that captures the feeling of loss and yearning for a simpler time.

75) “Ronan” by Taylor Swift

A heartfelt tribute to a young boy who passed away from cancer, capturing the deep pain of losing a child.

76) “One Sweet Day” by Mariah Carey

A hopeful song about reuniting with loved ones who have passed away.

77) “My Immortal” by Amy Lee of Evanescence

Expresses the pain of living with the memory of a lost loved one.

78) “Under the Bridge” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

Though not directly about grief, it conveys feelings of loneliness and longing for connection.

79) “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

A powerful ballad about enduring love, often interpreted as a farewell to a loved one.

80) “In the End” by Linkin Park

Reflects on the feelings of loss and the impermanence of life.

81) “Streets of Philadelphia” by Bruce Springsteen

Captures the loneliness and despair associated with loss and the struggle to find meaning.

82) “The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel

A contemplative song about isolation and the search for understanding amidst darkness.

83) “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri

A love song that speaks to the enduring nature of love beyond physical existence.

84) “Everybody’s Free (To Wear Sunscreen)” by Baz Luhrmann

Offers life advice and wisdom, evoking a sense of nostalgia and the passing of time.

85) “Nothing Compares 2 U” by Sinéad O’Connor

A deeply emotional song about the profound sense of loss and longing after a breakup.

86) “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin

A song filled with metaphors about life, death, and what lies beyond, often associated with mourning and reflection.

87) “Imagine” by John Lennon

While not specifically about grief, its message of peace and unity brings comfort in times of loss.

88) “Yesterday” by The Beatles

A song about loss and longing for a time before things changed.

89) “Purple Rain” by Prince

A song about love and loss, blending sadness and hope.

90) “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen

An epic narrative of life, regret, and acceptance, touching on themes of mortality.

Songs To Help With Grief FAQ

What is the song to comfort someone who is grieving.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all song for comforting someone in grief as music’s impact can be deeply personal. However, “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton and “Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran are widely regarded for their empathetic, soothing tones that resonate with those in mourning.

What is the best comfort for grief?

The best comfort for grief varies greatly from person to person. Common sources of solace include talking to loved ones, joining support groups, engaging in personal hobbies, or seeking professional counseling. The key is finding what feels most supportive and healing for the individual.

Do songs help with grief?

Yes, songs can significantly help with grief. They provide emotional release, a sense of understanding, and often articulate feelings that might be hard to express otherwise. Music can act as a therapeutic tool, aiding in the processing and healing of grief.

What helps people cope with grief?

People cope with grief in various ways, including seeking support from friends and family, engaging in creative activities like writing or art, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and sometimes seeking professional counseling. Physical activity and connecting with nature can also be beneficial.

What are the 3 C’s of grief?

The 3 C’s of grief are: Choose, Commit, and Continue. Choose to confront the reality of the loss, Commit to the process of adjusting to life without the deceased, and Continue to move forward in life while keeping their memory alive.

What are the 7 stages of grief?

The 7 stages of grief, as commonly referenced, are: Shock and denial, pain and guilt, anger and bargaining, depression, the upward turn, reconstruction and working through, and finally, acceptance and hope. These stages are not linear and can vary widely in duration and intensity for each individual.

Embracing The Melody of Healing

We’ve been there, haven’t we? Staring into space, feeling that void, wishing we could just hear their voice one more time. It’s tough, really tough. That’s where the power of music comes in to provide harmony in healing. 

Those songs to help with grief? They’re like friends in the silence, understanding every unspoken word of your heartache.

Think of it as a journey, where every note, every lyric, is a step towards healing. Sure, the road’s bumpy, and some days are harder than others. But you’ve got this incredible tool at your fingertips. A playlist of understanding, a harmony of shared experiences. 

These songs, they’re more than just melodies. They’re a shoulder to lean on, a gentle reminder that it’s okay to feel, to remember, to cry, and eventually, to smile again.

So crank up the volume, let these songs wrap around you like a warm embrace, and let them guide you through. They’re here to help you navigate this winding road, to light up the path towards a place where memories bring more smiles than tears. 

And remember, in this symphony of life, every note counts, every moment matters. You’ve got the strength, the music, and a whole community here with you. Together, we’ll get through this, one song at a time.

Similar Posts

How Long to See Results From Intermittent Fasting?

You’ve probably been eyeing that calendar, marking off days, wondering “How long to see results from intermittent fasting?”  It’s like waiting for that slow drip coffee to fill your cup on a Monday morning. You know it’s coming, but oh, the wait can be excruciating.  You’ve been juggling your eating windows, maybe even swapping your…

Yoga vs Meditation: Your Guide to Health and Mindfulness

Have you ever been engulfed in a very busy day, with your heart beating like an untamed stallion? I have. On those days, I often find myself thinking about yoga vs meditation. Are they two sides of the same coin? Or entirely different?  What if there’s more to them than just bending bodies and silent…

The Fastest Way To Calm Anxiety: 16 Tips For Relief

The fastest way to calm anxiety might not be what you think. It’s not a secret potion or a one-size-fits-all solution.  I know the drill. You’re cruising through your day and wham, anxiety hits like a ton of bricks. Your heart’s racing, and you’re swamped with anxious thoughts before you can say “deep breaths.” Imagine…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Manage Account

Journey’s 10 Best Songs

Sure, "Don't Stop Believin'" -- but there's a whole lot more.

By Gary Graff

• Share on Facebook
• Share to Flipboard
• Share on Pinterest
• + additional share options added
• Share on Tumblr
• Share on Reddit
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share on Whats App
• Send an Email
• Print this article
• Post a Comment

Though it arrives amidst lawsuits , social media sniping and infighting, Journey is turning 50 this year.

During that half century, the group has sold more than 100 million records worldwide, logging 11 platinum-or-better albums (including Diamond certifications for 1981’s Escape and 1988’s Greatest Hits) , earning eight top 10 albums on the Billboard 200 and 25 hits on the Billboard Hot 100. It’s also been a reliable ticket-selling act for most of its career, and in 2017, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Journey’s is the story of eras. When the group originally formed in San Francisco in 1973, original manager Herbie Herbert helped bring together guitarist Neal Schon and keyboard player/vocalist Gregg Rolie from Santana, bassist Ross Valory and rhythm guitarist George Tickner from Frumious Bandersnatch and drummer Prairie Prince from The Tubes. Prince would be replaced by David Bowie/Frank Zappa skins man Aynsley Dunbar, while Tickner would leave after Journey’s self-titled first album in 1975. The remaining quartet recorded two more albums before Steve Perry came on board for 1978’s Infinity, which began the band’s run of multi-platinum smashes — also marking the first appearance of Alton Kelley and Stanley Mouse’s iconic scarab logo for the band. Dunbar was replaced by Steve Smith for 1979’s Evolution , and Rolie would leave in 1980 with Jonathan Cain of The Babys joining to help elevate the band to even greater fortunes on Escape and Frontiers .

The palette has been diverse, but there are common elements among Journey’s best songs — sturdy melodies and sing-along choruses, usually leading into one of Schon’s majestic guitar solos. But within that mold there’s also been plenty of invention and clever arrangements that have never been as formulaic as some of the band’s detractors (particularly during their early ‘80s heyday) would have you believe.

Journey has gone through its fair share of lineups, with singer Arnel Pineda on board since 2007 — the longest continuous tenure of any Journey frontman. The group released Freedom , it’s first new studio album in 11 years, in 2022, and despite the current legal fractures (which you can read about in detail here ), still they ride, as the Escape track says — and may they keep on runnin’ for a long time.

With all that in mind, here are our picks for Journey’s 10 best songs — not all of which come from the biggest hits.

"Someday Soon" ( Departure , 1980)

This album track from Rolie’s finally studio effort with the band is a hypnotic tone poem, with a ringing, cushy ambience and a hippie kind of optimism – not to mention the best give-and-take Perry and Rolie achieved during their time together in the band. It’s of course been eclipsed by Journey’s myriad hits (“Any Way You Want It” is the enduring top 40 Hot 100 hit from Departure ), but it’s a gem worthy of discovery.  Listen here.

"Escape" ( Escape , 1981)

The title track from Journey’s Billboard 200-topping studio album straddled the hard rock/pomp attack of the group’s mid-‘70s output with the melodic sensibility of the Perry-Cain axis. Its five-minute length provides room for the arrangement to stretch out and flow from one song part to the next, with a crunch that was part of Journey’s palette at the time. Listen here.

"Of a Lifetime" ( Journey , 1975)

The Journey of 1973-77 was certainly a different creature than the hitmaking colossus so many know and love. The group’s initial lineups flexed instrumental muscles, smoothly knitting together a number of styles more interested in the journey (ba- dum ) than any commercial destination. The first track from its first album is a prototype, leaning into blues, psychedelic rock and a touch of Latin, with the first of what would become many standout Schon solos, and a tuneful sturdiness delivered by Rolie’s soulful vocal. Listen here.

"Faithfully" (Frontiers , 1983)

The melody of this top 20 Hot 100 hit came to Cain in a dream on a tour bus, and his paean to the struggle between home and the road was written in a half-hour. The result was a swoon-inducing ballad tailor-made for a sea of lighters (back then) and cellphone flashlights (now), capturing one of Perry’s best recorded performances and one of Schon’s most inspired solos. One of its great side stories is that Prince contacted Cain after he wrote “Purple Rain,” concerned that it might be too similar to “Faithfully.” Cain determined it wasn’t, but joked to Billboard that, “After seeing what it became, I should have asked for a couple of points….”

"Ask the Lonely" (single, 1983)

Recorded for Frontiers , this one wound up in the romcom Two of a Kind (starring the Grease duo of John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John) and rocked its way to No. 3 on the Mainstream Rock Airplay chart. Like “Only the Young,” which wound up in Vision Quest two years later, it showed that Journey was on roll – and well-suited for big soundtrack moments. Listen here.

"Who's Crying Now" ( Escape, 1981)

The best of Journey’s swoon songs — started by Perry while driving into Los Angeles and finished with Cain — has a subtlety and dynamic build that sets it apart from the many others of its ilk they’d create. The verse slips into the chorus with a soulful ease, and Schon’s guitar accents deftly build up to his searing solo at the end. The Escape single reached No. 4 on the Hot 100. Listen here.

"Feeling That Way" ( Infinity , 1978)

If fans at the time wondered how Steve Perry and Gregg Rolie would co-exist, this was the answer — an ebb-and-flow tradeoff that proved they could complement each other as lead singers as well as harmonize smoothly together (first evidenced by Infinity ‘s lead track “Lights”). Its medley-like pairing with the next track, “Anytime,” was gravy that would become a motif on the next few Journey albums. Listen here.

"Just the Same Way" ( Evolution , 1979)

Journey’s fifth album had a punchier sound than Infinity — though they shared producer Roy Thomas Baker — which worked to the benefit of the album’s first single. Led by Rolie’s piano and muscular lead vocal, with Perry responding on the choruses and bridge, it reached No. 58 on the Hot 100 in 1979. In a perfect world this would have been as big as anything from Escape or Frontiers, but it’s still a convincing introduction to the Rolie era of the band. Listen here.

"Don't Stop Believin'" ( Escape , 1981)

More than a billion Spotify streams, a Library of Congress National Recording Registry placement and plays at virtually every sporting event around the world don’t lie — this one is Journey’s pinnacle of success. Created during a rehearsal at the group’s warehouse HQ in Oakland, Calif., it gave us the “streetlight people” of Hollywood’s Sunset Strip and put the non-existent South Detroit on the map. And it saves the chorus for the song’s end, after the guitar solo. A cross-generational hit? Believe it, gleefully.

"Stone in Love" ( Escape , 1981)

Schon reportedly called this “Stoned in Love” when he wrote the riff, and it’s certainly an addictive track that’s the best roll-down-the-windows-and-crank-it-up Journey fix you could ask for — not to mention a frequent show opener. A No. 13 Mainstream Rock Airplay hit in 1981, the song is practically a deep cut today. But its anthemic chorus is a spirit-lifter and the dynamic breakdown that segues into the song-closing guitar solo harks back to the ambitious musicality of the first few albums. “Stone” is a gem that still shines bright. Listen here.

Get weekly rundowns straight to your inbox

Want to know what everyone in the music business is talking about?

Get in the know on.

Billboard is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Billboard Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

optional screen reader

Charts expand charts menu.

• Billboard Hot 100™
• Billboard 200™
• Hits Of The World™
• TikTok Billboard Top 50
• Songs Of The Summer
• Song Breaker
• Year-End Charts
• Decade-End Charts

Music Expand music menu

• R&B/Hip-Hop

Videos Expand videos menu

Culture expand culture menu, media expand media menu, business expand business menu.

• Business News
• Record Labels
• View All Pro

Pro Tools Expand pro-tools menu

• Songwriters & Producers
• Artist Index
• Royalty Calculator
• Market Watch
• Industry Events Calendar

Billboard Español Expand billboard-espanol menu

• Cultura y Entretenimiento

Get Up Anthems by Tres Expand get-up-anthems-by-tres menu

Honda music expand honda-music menu.

Songs About Grief: 30 Sad Songs About Death & Loss

The loss of a loved one is always a hard thing to navigate. We often ask ourselves questions like: Why him/her? How am I going to manage without them? And what now? In times of grief and sadness, many people find comfort in listening to music.

Music can help us navigate our emotions, reflect on our relationships, and find peace. Now. you might be asking yourself, there are billions of songs out there, what are the best songs for someone who is grieving? Thankfully, there are many types of songs to listen to when grieving such as happy, sad. uplifting, angry, and calming.

The key is to listen and to let yourself feel those emotions. Although not all songs will speak to you. when you hear the right song or songs for you. you will find it easier to navigate those grief emotions. It is safe to say that most if not all genres of music have songs to listen to when grieving.

To get you started, I have listed 30 of my choice songs for grieving. Please note, this list is in no particular order and covers many different types of songs for grieving.

“My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion

Of course, this is the iconic song from Titanic. But. as a song for someone who is grieving, this song speaks to the power of love and how no matter how long your loved one has been gone, they will always be there in your heart.

It speaks to the connection that we can maintain with our departed loved ones through our dreams and in our hearts. This song is a good choice for someone who has recently experienced a loss, as it brings hope and understanding that their life and love live on in our hearts.

“Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton

In this song, Eric Clapton sings of the possibilities should he visit his dearly departed loved one in heaven and the realities that he will have to wait. For someone, who dreams of that connection with their loved one in heaven, this song asks those questions but also supports the understanding that it is not time for answers to these questions.

This song is calming and a good choice when selecting songs for grieving This song brings peace to the listener.

“(In the Arms of an) Angel”

by Sarah McLachlan ~ Sarah McLachlan sings this song with the voice of an angel, about being supported by angels. This song is one that speaks to many people about always being cared for and supported by angels no matter what we are going through.

This song brings the listener on a journey of grieving to understanding. This song provides the listener comfort in hope that the person they lost is being cared for by the angels.

“Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran

The loss of a parent is an especially hard journey for anyone to navigate. In this song. Ed Sheeran sings about the experience of having to go through the personal effects of his grandmother.

Reliving the love and experiences with the loved one and celebrating their homecoming to heaven. This song is could be very comforting for someone who has recently lost a parent (or someone that they have to handle the personal effects of).

For the listener to be able to listen to his journey of facing the empty home and having to clean up the final days of someone’s life, allows them to feel connected to someone going through something similar.

“Knocking on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan

This song is sung from the perspective of the person dying. With the feeling that the end is near. Bob Dylan sings of addressing a loved one (mama in particular) for that one last time, letting them know to take his things because his time is up.

Although, this may not speak to everyone experiencing grief, for those Bob Dylan fans or someone who experienced their loved one knowing their time is near, this song brings a bit of understanding that sometimes our loved ones know their time is near.

“Fire and Rain” by James Taylor

The journey that this song takes the listener on is hearing the initial news that a loved one has been lost and the impact of the understanding you will never see them again.

In the song, you will hear him asking Jesus for support to make it through this grief. This is a good song for that person stuck on the thought that they will never see their loved one again.

“See you again” by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth

With the loss of a loved one. we often struggle with the fact that we won’t be able to talk to them anymore. This is a song that addresses the impact of grief from losing a loved one. The consideration of being able to “see you again”, helps to ease the pain and brings the listener comfort.

The mesh of melodic singing with a bit of rap brings life to this song . This song allows the listener to remember the journey together but also the hope that there will be a day when they get to see their loved one again.

“One Sweet Day” by Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men

This collaboration between Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men. brings the listener on the journey of the regrets that one may have when losing their loved one combined with the understanding that they are watching over us and that one day they will be together with them again.

This song is passionate and emotional, taking the listener through the pain and hope felt by losing a loved one.

“One more day” by Diamond Rio

This song sings to the possibility of “one more day”. After losing a loved one. we all wish for that one more day. knowing that it’ll never be enough. For a country music fan. this is one of those songs that could really touch close to their hopes of one more day. This song takes the listener on a journey of comfort and hope.

“Remember Me” by Miguel (from Disney/Pixar Coco)

A song from the Disney/Pixar movie ‘Coco”, although this song is initially sung from a father to a child as he must travel for work, it also speaks well to the remembrance of a departed loved one.

As with the day of the dead (what the story is about), our departed loved ones remain alive in our memories. For someone grieving a loved one. this song speaks to the knowledge that you will always feel their love if we always remember them.

“I follow you into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie

The connection we have to our closest loved ones is a connection we never want to let go of. This song sings to the ability to keep that connection beyond this world.

This song could be comforting to someone on their deathbed with a promise that they won’t be alone in the journey. Although this song may be considered a little dark, the romance of not wanting to live without their loved one may connect with certain listeners.

“Gone Away” by The Offspring

This song is a powerful one about the grief someone is going through losing their loved one. Illuminating the distance between them, the pain they go through, and the helplessness felt by the person who is left here among the living. For someone who needs to yell out their grief, this could be an ideal selection.

Expert Tip: For a grieving listener, this song would be a good choice to play loud and alone. Its magnitude can help someone feel the emotions they are likely trying to shy away from.

“One hell of an Amen” by Brantley Gilbert

This song is a tribute to a fallen soldier, someone fighting cancer, or essentially about someone taken too early in life. It is a powerful country song with a positive message about saying goodbye, the best way they can.

For the listener, this song speaks to the heartache that comes when death is unexpected. The power of this song is felt by the honor to those that have sacrificed their lives for our freedoms, to honor the battle someone endures with cancer and reinforces that the best we can do is to honor their lives.

“Gone too soon” by Daughtry

Miscarriages are one of the hardest losses a parent can experience, asking all the questions unknown of a dearest loved one they felt they knew, even though they never met. Daughtry brought this amazing song to honor the love, connection, and emotions that come with the loss of an unborn child.

This song may be a great selection for someone struggling with the loss of a baby. The song illuminates the truths of this loss. Some listeners may find comfort in the lyrics and understand that people going through the same struggle have the same questions and thoughts they do.

“Funeral” by Lukas Graham

With a bit of a lighter approach. Lukas Graham sings about his own funeral and expectations. In this song, he sings of the expectation that people should enjoy a drink and ‘party for me’.

This is one of those songs that has a place when celebrating the life of a loved one. Although this song is not for everyone, it does bring the listener consideration of what they would want for their funeral and may help with understanding what their loved one would’ve wanted.

“Whiskey Lullaby” by Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss

This is a sad song about a man who has given up after having his heartbroken and then the girl who broke his heart, blames herself and gives up as well.

Whereas this song may not be right for everyone grieving, this song is performed in such a way that you can feel the pain and sorrow that both felt. A well-sung country song by Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss.

“Time to say goodbye” by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman

This version of the song is sung in Italian with some parts in English. This is an emotional, powerful, and very beautiful song that sings about the emptiness felt from the loss of a loved one but with the understanding that the time has come to say goodbye.

This song is known to bring those stifled emotions to the surface if you let it. “You’ll be in my heart” by Phil Collins ~ This song was written for Disney’s ‘Tarzan”. It tells a story of the comfort we can give someone who has lost their loved ones, and that we can love them just as much as they need.

This is an uplifting song that could be able to bring comfort to someone feeling very alone after a loss.

“Wind beneath my Wings” by Bette Midler

This song is known from the movie ‘Beaches” but is also a popular choice of song to be played during a service to honor a life lost. The song sings of messages to tell someone you have lost about their impact on your life and how their ongoing support will help you soar higher than you ever thought you could.

This uplifting song is a great way to honor a departed loved one that has had a significant impact on your life and how you make decisions. This song can easily take the listener on an emotional journey and has a tendency to help get those emotions flowing.

“The greatest man I never knew” by Reba McEntire

This is a song about the relationship between a busy father and daughter. It sings of how her father worked hard , worked, late, was quiet, and the impact of how they lived their lives had on their relationship.

This is a sad song but also illuminates the understanding that the greatness of a loved one is still there, even if they had a hard time showing it. This song would be a good selection for someone grieving a loved one that maybe they didn’t have the greatest relationship with, but the loss is felt more than they expected.

“I’ll be missing you” by Puff Daddy and Faith Evans

This is an uplifting song about missing someone taken too soon but knowing that they will always be there for you. This song was originally created to honor Notorious B.I.G. and has since become a song that many people turn to when remembering their loved ones. The song takes the listener on a journey of remembrance, hope, and comfort.

“Heaven” by Beyonce

This song is a sad song about a loved one taken too soon. In this song. Beyonce sings with the pain of loss and remembering a loved one that Heaven just couldn’t wait for. The emotion of this song can truly be felt.

This would be a good song for any Beyonce fan but also someone working through their emotions of losing a loved one too soon.

“Jealous of the Angels” by Donna Taggert

This song tells a story about someone who has suddenly lost a loved one but puts their trust in God’s decision. Donna Taggert sings of the hope that this is all a dream, the understanding that it is not, and the acceptance that love will live on so long as we hold on tight.

This song focuses on letting go of why and accepting that there is a reason for this loss. It is a calming song that focuses on the trust in God for the reason.

“In loving memory” by Alter Bridge

This song tells a story about thanks, sorrow, and understanding. The power that is received from knowing someone we have lost is living on through your love and memories is illuminated by this uplifting song. The emotion felt in this song is something that will allow many listeners to relate to the turmoil we go through when grieving a loved one.

“Hurt” by Christina Aguilera

This is an emotional song that explores the many questions that someone asks themselves when they experience a sudden loss of a loved one. The thread of sadness to this song is relatable for many people and the regrets they may feel when they have suddenly lost someone without having the chance to make things right.

This song takes the listener on a journey of self­reflection. sorrow, and wishes that we may have following the death of a loved one.

“If heaven was needing a hero” by Jo Dee Messina

This is a calming song about the loss of a loved one too soon. Jo Dee Messina sings of the regrets, memories, and faith that someone’s time ends when it is supposed to.

The song sings to honor all that they were and although she sings of the struggles of understanding, she believes that heaven was needing a hero. The calmness and message of this song could bring comfort to the listener.

“Hear me you” by Jimmy Eat World

This is a calming song about the question of what our departed loved one might think of us now. After losing someone, who has impacted our lives significantly, we may consider what they would think of us now.

This song also includes the hope that angels have welcomed the departed. This song is sung in a way that brings peace and calmness to the listener.

“Scars in Heaven” by Casting Crowns

This song is a calming and reassuring song that allows the listener to go on a journey of hope and comfort that the departed loved one is now at peace. This song refers to the only scars belonging to the one that holds your now (Jesus). It brings the listener peace to consider that their loved one is now without pain, wounds, and now healed because they are in heaven.

“From where you are” by Lifehouse

This is a song about missing someone, although not specifically about the death of a loved one. Often, the death of a loved one feels like the loss of a relationship.

This song could bring a grieving listener the comfort of knowing that they are not alone in missing their loved one. It is a calming song that continually reinforces the message of missing someone, missing the years since, and wishing they were here.

“Visiting Hours” by Ed Sheeran

This is a new song by Ed Sheeran and another hit. This song is all about the wish that we could visit someone in heaven. In this song, he sings about wanting to share the journey of kids growing up and all the changes since the loved one has passed.

As with many of us. we wish we could ask for that advice we always used to get and to be able to update our lost loved ones on our lives. To the listener, this song is comforting and beautifully put together.

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is an individual journey and finding any way to help you navigate the emotions and turmoil you may be feeling is a positive in my book. Although music is often thought to help us celebrate and bring joy the use of music to help with grief is just as powerful.

Music allows us to take an emotional journey. Many of the songs listed , and so many more, ask the questions we are all asking when we are grieving the loss of a loved one. They also provide possible answers to those questions, bringing comfort to the listener.

These songs take us on a journey of pain, understanding, comfort, and all our minds to process the emotions. A song may remind you of your lost loved one. or it may speak directly to the thoughts that you have, in any way that a song reaches you. it is helping you process.

The songs listed above are only a small collection, there are hundreds of songs for grieving in every genre. If you don’t know where to start listen to the songs on this list and build off of the songs that speak to you the most. There is no right or wrong answer to what are the best songs for grieving there is only the feeling that the songs give you as the listener.

If the song speaks to you, allows you to feel the emotions you’ve been hiding from, or helps you find peace with what has happened, then it did exactly what it was designed to do.

Lastly, should you be close to someone who has lost a loved one, do not hesitate to share this list or specific sonas that spoke to vou or remind vou of their lost loved one. the power of music will help

About Jayden Buckley

Hi, my name is Jayden and I am author/editor for PlayTheTunes. I remember the first time I hopped on the drums, I was hooked. Music has played an enormous part of my life, and I'm honored I get to share my experiences with you!

PlayTheTunes

All your music needs, wrapped up in one website. PlayTheTunes is the worlds leading music & instrument source.

Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2023 - PlayTheTunes

All Rights Reserved

Amazon Associates Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

23 Best Songs About Death, Grief, & Loss

If you’re struggling with grief, these songs might bring you some comfort.

Death is the only guarantee in life, so it’s not surprising that there are hundreds of songs about death from all types of singers and music genres.

Whether they’re tragic songs lamenting the passing of a loved one or tracks that offer an undercurrent of hope and optimism, songs about death are ubiquitous.

In this article, you’ll find the best songs exploring this sensitive topic, from classic rock songs to contemporary chart-topping pop music.

Table of Contents

The 23 Best Songs About Death

With songs about death coming from all genres and eras, we’ve aimed to cover as broad a range of music on the subject as possible.

This ranges from country music classics and rock ballads to more unusual death songs to help ensure this list is as definitive as possible.

Let’s get started and begin our playlist of the 23 best songs about death, grief, and loss:

23. “A Hero’s Death” – Fontaines D.C.

Fontaines D.C. approaches the topic of death with “A Hero’s Death,” their fast-paced rock song laced with irony.

The vocals repeat the lyrics “Life ain’t always empty” as they sing about someone who is dying and might also be a hero.

The Irish post-punk band released the song on their 2020 album, A Hero’s Death , earning praise from critics and fans.

22. “Hurt” – Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera’s take on death in the 2006 pop song “Hurt” discusses her feelings about losing her father.

“Seems like it was yesterday when I saw your face,” sings Aguilera, capturing how loved ones take time to fade from our memories once they’re gone.

A hugely popular mainstream singer, Aguilera also performed one of the best songs about fighting , “Fighter,” released in 2002.

21. “I’ll Be Missing You” – Puff Daddy (feat. Faith Evans & 112)

Perhaps one of the most popular songs about death came from Diddy, working in collaboration with Faith Evans and 112.

“I’ll Be Missing You” sings about the day “when you went away, what a life to take, what a bond to break.”

Its popularity came in part due to being based on another hit song, “Every Breath You Take” by The Police.

20. “Who You’d Be Today” – Kenny Chesney

While death is always regrettable, the death of someone young is perhaps more tragic, as Kenny Chesney covers in “Who You’d Be Today.”

This song about death wonders what would have become of someone had their life not been tragically cut short.

It echoes familiar themes about how the good die young, and the song reminds us to cherish those around us whenever we can.

19. “Hallelujah” – Jeff Buckley

“Hallelujah” is one of those songs about death that has been covered many times, with Jeff Buckley releasing his version in 1994.

It’s a touching song that anyone who grieved will likely be moved to tears when hearing, and it is one of Buckley’s best covers.

A prolific singer-songwriter, Jeff Buckley also performed one of the best songs about flowers , a cover of Ertha Kitt’s “Lilac Wine.”

18. “I’ll Be Seeing You” – Cat Power

Cat Power took a tender and downbeat approach to “I’ll Be Seeing You,” her 2022 indie song about a recently deceased loved one.

It reflects the concept of how we see dead loved ones in the world around us, from the morning sun to a new full moon.

Powers released the track on her 2022 album Covers , which included her cover songs for artists such as Lana Del Ray and Iggy Pop.

17. “See You Again” – Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood has written many sad songs throughout her career, with “See You Again” contributing to the long list of death songs. 

The lyrics capture this perfectly, singing, “Said goodbye, turned around and you were gone, gone, gone, faded into the setting sun.”

Carrie Underwood is no stranger to receiving accolades for her music, with 16 nominations and eight Grammy Awards won in her career.

16. “Play Dead” – Björk

One of the most unique and idiosyncratic performers of her generation, Björk has established a reputation for authenticity.

With “Play Dead,” she worked with producer David Arnold to create a quirky, catchy song about death that takes a more unconventional approach.

She also produced and performed one of the best songs about silence , “It’s Oh So Quiet,” released on her 1995 album Post .

15. “Dead And Gone” – The Black Keys

Returning to songs about death to have emerged from the rock scene, The Black Keys released “Dead and Gone” on their album El Camino .

Death here is a state of mind, reflecting the singer’s feelings of isolation and loneliness rather than explicitly singing about a dead person.

It’s another classic rock tune from The Black Keys, who have been producing albums since the early 2000s and mixing blues, psychedelia, and classic rock.

14. “The Devil You Know” – Kovacs

A conversation about death wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the devil, representing the dark underbelly of the concept.

Kovacs brings him into the picture with their song “The Devil You Know,” a catchy tune that doesn’t take the subject too seriously.

Dutch singer Kovacs has collaborated with renowned electronic music producer Liam Howe, known for his work with Ellie Goulding and FKA Twigs.

13. “Die A Happy Man” – Thomas Rhett

The manner in which we die is often more important than death itself, as Thomas Rhett appreciates with his song “Die A Happy Man.”

Here, happiness equates to love, with the lyrics, “Oh, if all I got is your hand in my hand, Baby, I could die a happy man.”

Released on Rhett’s 2015 album Tangled Up , it’s one of the more popular country songs about death from the genre.

12. “Doing It To Death” – The Kills

The Kills takes a darker, albeit slightly tongue-in-cheek, approach to death with their hit single “Doing It To Death.”

This song is about overdoing things and making bad life decisions in the heat of the moment or when drunk on the town.

The Kills released this as their lead single from their fifth studio album, Ash and Ice , released in 2016.

11. “If I Die Young” – The Band Perry

The Band Perry brings us back once again to a song about death coming too early, with “If I Die Young.”

The song highlights how someone who dies young can still impact the world and can help us find inner peace if we’ve lost someone early.

It’s an especially encouraging song for parents who have had the misfortune of outliving their children and need something to lift them up.

10. “Clubbed To Death (Matrix Soundtrack)” – Rob Dougan

Rob Dougan’s track “Clubbed to Death” will be familiar to anyone who has seen the hit science fiction movie The Matrix .

It’s a powerful and impactful piece of music that brings back memories of the movie and can also make you reflect on death from a new angle.

Dougan is known for effortlessly blending multiple genres, and his production skills are fully displayed in this powerful song.

9. “Whiskey Lullaby” – Brad Paisley ft. Alison Krauss

While death is often a tragic loss, losing someone due to suicide can be even more heartbreaking, as “Whiskey Lullaby” explores.

Brad Paisley uses the song to recount the story of a man who takes his own life after being betrayed by his lover.

Stricken by guilt, the lover then takes their own life as well in one of the saddest songs about death you’re likely to hear.

8. “Lazarus” – David Bowie

David Bowie has produced dozens of songs throughout his career, with “Lazarus” perhaps the most prescient of them all.

Seen by some as predicting his death, the song was written after he discovered he had cancer and reflects his emotional response.

Bowie’s status as one of the greatest musicians who ever lived is reflected in some of the best songs of all time , including his 1971 masterpiece, “Life on Mars?”

7. “ She Thinks His Name Was John ” – Reba McEntire

“She Thinks His Name Was John” by Reba McEntire is another melancholy song about death with a dream-like quality.

A vague memory of someone lost permeates the lyrics, “And in the end when she was barely hanging on, all she could say is she thinks his name was John.”

McEntire released “She Thinks His Name Was John” in 1994 on her album Read My Mind , and it was the first country song to address the topic of AIDS.

6. “Brendan’s Death Song” – Red Hot Chili Peppers

There are no prizes for guessing the subject matter of the Red Hot Chili Peppers song “Brendan’s Death Song,” dedicated to Brendan Mullen.

It’s also, in its way, one of the most upbeat songs about death, perhaps in memory of the positive note Brendan left on their lives.

There’s an acceptance of death that runs through its core and how it can pave the way for inspiration and new beginnings as we move forward.

5. “Everybody Dies” – Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish cuts straight to the point and tells it how it is with her iconic song “Everybody Dies,” turning this dark thought into captivating music.

“Everybody dies, surprise, surprise,” Eilish sings in the song, continuing, “We tell each other lies, sometimes, we try.”

It was released as part of the ironically-titled 2021 album Happier Than Ever , which further cemented her reputation as one of the icons of pop music.

4. “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away” – Justin Moore

Country music is perhaps the most common genre to produce songs about death, such as “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away” by Justin Moore.

Moore uses death songs to connect with those loved ones who can no longer be reached and whose wisdom he still seeks.

He released it as a single from the album Outlaws Like Me , leading to his second number-one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts in 2011.

3. “Slipped Away” – Avril Lavigne

Popular singer Avril Lavigne has penned several powerful tracks, including one of the best songs about change and many more hit releases.

With “Slipped Away,” Lavigne tackles the topic of death with typical lyricism and delicacy as she reflects on her recently deceased grandfather.

She was on tour at the moment of his death and wrote the song to reflect her tragic loss and what it would be like to live without his presence.

2. “The Dance” – Garth Brooks

Garth Brooks takes the concept of death and looks at it through the prism of dancing as a metaphor for the interplay between two people.

For a moment, all the world was right,” he sings before adding, “But how could I have known that you’d ever say goodbye.”

The song is one of many releases by Brooks to have picked up an award from an illustrious career at the forefront of country music.

1. “Wake Me Up When September Ends” – Green Day

The title of the song “Wake Me Up When September Ends” comes from Green Day’s lead singer and is about the death of his father when he was ten years old.

It discusses how he locked himself away in his room on the news of his father’s cancer, not wanting to face the reality of his impending death.

Green Day is also known for one of the best karaoke songs of all time , “Boulevard of Broken Dreams,” about the failure of the American Dream.

So that’s it for our complete guide to the best songs about death you can listen to if you’re struggling with grief or reflecting fondly on a deceased loved one.

While death can be depressing, these songs have shown how diverse music can be when tackling how death impacts our lives.

Since death is perhaps the only certainty in life, we can anticipate many more songs to explore the concept in fresh and exciting ways in the years to come. 

Which songs about death have moved you the most over the years? Leave a comment below.

21 Best Songs About Spring Of All Time

23 Best Songs About Gratitude & Being Thankful

Andy has been producing music since the early days of Cubase and spent much of the 2000s mixing house and techno with his trusty Technics 1200s. Fast forward two decades, you'll find him in his home studio experimenting with the latest music production software, tinkering with Ableton plug-ins, and occasionally trying (and failing) to complete Cuphead for the hundredth time.

You may like

Latest articles.

21 Best Songs About Blood

Great songs exploring the essence of the human body.

21 Best Songs About Thursday

Great music to pass the time until the weekend arrives.

21 Best Songs About Colors

Exploring songs about colors from the world's leading musicians.

The Best Songs Curated For You

19 Heartfelt Songs About Death & Grief: Healing Melodies

Death is an inevitable part of the human experience that has been explored through various forms of art, with music being one of the most powerful mediums. Songs about death often touch the deepest chords of our hearts, bringing to the surface emotions that are sometimes difficult to express in words.

These songs about death not only provide comfort and solace in times of grief but also help us celebrate and remember the lives of our loved ones. They can be cathartic, allowing us to process our feelings and find peace within ourselves. From ballads and dirges to more upbeat and hopeful tunes, the range of songs about death is as diverse as our experiences with loss. Each song provides a unique perspective on death, helping us to understand and navigate this complex and often difficult aspect of human existence.

In this article, we will explore some of the most poignant and memorable songs about death, delving into the lyrics and melodies that have captured the essence of this universal human experience.

Table of Contents

19 Heartfelt Songs About Death

1. “tears in heaven” – eric clapton.

• Singer: Eric Clapton
• Writer: Eric Clapton and Will Jennings
• Release Year: 1992

“ Tears in Heaven ” is one of the most touching songs about loss and grief ever written. Eric Clapton wrote this song after the tragic death of his four-year-old son, Conor. The lyrics express Clapton’s pain and hope that he will be reunited with his son in heaven. This song resonates with anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one, making it a timeless piece.

The emotional melody and Clapton’s heartfelt singing add to the song’s poignancy. “Tears in Heaven” won three Grammy Awards and is often listed among the greatest songs of all time. Its popularity has not waned over the years, and it continues to be a source of comfort for many people in their time of grief.

2. “My Heart Will Go On” – Celine Dion

• Singer: Celine Dion
• Writer: James Horner and Will Jennings
• Release Year: 1997

“ My Heart Will Go On ” by Celine Dion is one of the most recognizable and popular songs about loss and moving on. Written as the main theme for the blockbuster film “Titanic,” the song tells the story of everlasting love that survives even after death. Celine Dion’s powerful voice and emotional melody make this song an anthem for those who have lost a loved one. The song became synonymous with the film and won numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Song.

It has since become one of Celine Dion’s signature songs and a classic in its own right. “My Heart Will Go On” continues to be a favorite among fans and is often played at memorials and tributes, making it one of the greatest songs about death of all time.

3. “Hallelujah” – Leonard Cohen

• Singer: Leonard Cohen
• Writer: Leonard Cohen
• Release Year: 1984

“ Hallelujah ” by Leonard Cohen is a hauntingly beautiful song that explores themes of love , loss, and redemption. The lyrics are rich with biblical references and metaphors, making it a deeply emotional and complex song. Over the years, “Hallelujah” has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own unique interpretation to the song. It has become a staple in popular culture, often used in movies and TV shows during emotional scenes.

The song’s popularity surged after it was featured in the movie “Shrek,” introducing it to a new generation of listeners. “Hallelujah” is often considered one of the greatest songs ever written, and its timeless melody and profound lyrics continue to resonate with people all over the world.

4. “I Will Always Love You” – Whitney Houston

• Singer: Whitney Houston
• Writer: Dolly Parton

“ I Will Always Love You ” by Whitney Houston is one of the most powerful and emotional songs about saying goodbye. Originally written and performed by Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston’s version for the soundtrack of “The Bodyguard” turned the song into a global phenomenon. The song is about leaving someone you love and hoping they will remember you fondly.

Houston’s powerful vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics have made it a classic. “I Will Always Love You” won numerous awards, including the Grammy for Record of the Year. The song remains one of Whitney Houston’s signature hits and continues to be a popular choice for tributes and memorials. Its enduring popularity and emotional depth make it one of the best songs about death of all time.

5. “Candle in the Wind” – Elton John

• Singer: Elton John
• Writer: Elton John and Bernie Taupin
• Release Year: 1973

“ Candle in the Wind ” by Elton John is a timeless song that has become synonymous with mourning and tribute. Originally written in honor of Marilyn Monroe, the lyrics reflect on the fragility of life and the tragedy of a life cut short. Elton John later re-wrote the song as a tribute to Princess Diana after her untimely death in 1997, turning it into one of the best-selling singles of all time.

The song captures the sadness and loss felt by millions around the world and has become an anthem for mourning public figures. The emotional melody and poignant lyrics make “Candle in the Wind” a classic song about death that continues to resonate with people today.

6. “The Show Must Go On” – Queen

• Singer: Freddie Mercury
• Writer: Queen
• Release Year: 1991

“ The Show Must Go On ” by Queen is a powerful anthem about facing adversity and continuing to persevere, even in the face of death. Written by the band while lead singer Freddie Mercury was battling AIDS, the song is a testament to Mercury’s strength and determination to continue making music despite his illness. The lyrics reflect Mercury’s inner turmoil and his desire to live life to the fullest, while the music adds to the song’s emotional depth.

“The Show Must Go On” has since become one of Queen’s most iconic songs and a favorite among fans. Its message of hope and perseverance in the face of death has resonated with people all over the world, making it one of the greatest songs about death ever written.

7. “Supermarket Flowers” – Ed Sheeran

• Singer: Ed Sheeran
• Writer: Ed Sheeran, Johnny McDaid, and Benjamin Levin
• Release Year: 2017

“ Supermarket Flowers ” by Ed Sheeran is a touching song that explores themes of loss and remembrance. Written in the perspective of Ed’s grandmother, the song reflects on the simple yet profound moments that make up a life. The lyrics are filled with imagery and metaphors that paint a picture of a loved one’s life, while the melody adds to the song’s emotional impact.

“Supermarket Flowers” has been praised for its honesty and vulnerability, resonating with listeners who have lost a loved one. The song’s popularity has grown over time, making it one of Ed Sheeran’s most beloved tracks and a poignant addition to the list of greatest songs about death.

8. “Angel” – Sarah McLachlan

• Singer: Sarah McLachlan
• Writer: Sarah McLachlan

“ Angel ” by Sarah McLachlan is a beautiful and ethereal song that explores themes of comfort and hope in the face of loss. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, reflecting on the pain of losing someone and the hope that they are at peace. The melody is haunting and adds to the song’s emotional depth. “Angel” has been used in numerous movies and TV shows to underscore emotional scenes, and its popularity has only grown over the years.

The song is often associated with the ASPCA’s animal rescue commercials, which has helped to raise awareness and funds for the organization. “Angel” is a testament to the healing power of music and its ability to bring comfort in times of grief.

9. “Black” – Pearl Jam

• Singer: Eddie Vedder
• Writer: Eddie Vedder and Stone Gossard

“ Black ” by Pearl Jam is a poignant song about love, loss, and the passage of time. The lyrics reflect Eddie Vedder’s personal experiences and emotions, making the song relatable to anyone who has experienced the pain of losing a loved one. The music adds to the song’s emotional impact, with its haunting melody and powerful vocals. “Black” has been praised for its raw honesty and emotional depth, and it remains one of Pearl Jam’s most beloved tracks.

The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, with many fans citing it as one of the greatest songs about death ever written. Its timeless message and emotional resonance make “Black” a classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world.

10. “Wind Beneath My Wings” – Bette Midler

• Singer: Bette Midler
• Writer: Larry Henley and Jeff Silbar
• Release Year: 1988

“ Wind Beneath My Wings ” by Bette Midler is an uplifting song about the power of love and support in the face of adversity. The lyrics are a tribute to someone who has been a source of strength and inspiration, and the melody adds to the song’s emotional impact. “Wind Beneath My Wings” has been used in numerous movies and TV shows, most notably in the film “Beaches,” where it underscored the theme of friendship and loss.

The song won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year and has since become one of Bette Midler’s signature hits. Its message of hope and gratitude in the face of death has resonated with listeners all over the world, making it one of the greatest songs about death ever written.

11. “See You Again” – Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth

• Singer: Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth
• Writer: DJ Frank E, Charlie Puth, Wiz Khalifa, and Andrew Cedar
• Release Year: 2015

“ See You Again ” by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth is a heartfelt tribute to the late actor Paul Walker , known for his role in the Fast and Furious franchise. The song was featured in “Furious 7” as a tribute to Walker, who died in a car crash. The lyrics express the hope of being reunited with a loved one in the afterlife and the pain of saying goodbye. Charlie Puth’s soulful singing combined with Wiz Khalifa’s poignant rapping created a moving and emotional song that resonated with many people, not just fans of the movie or Paul Walker.

“See You Again” became a huge commercial success, breaking records and topping charts worldwide. The music video, featuring clips of Paul Walker, added to the song’s emotional impact, making it one of the most memorable songs about death.

12. “I’ll Be Missing You” – Puff Daddy, Faith Evans ft. 112

• Singer: Puff Daddy, Faith Evans ft. 112
• Writer: Sting, Faith Evans, and Todd Gaither

“ I’ll Be Missing You ” by Puff Daddy , Faith Evans , and 112 is a song dedicated to the late Notorious B.I.G., a friend, and collaborator of Puff Daddy. The song samples The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” and features heartfelt lyrics about loss and remembrance. Faith Evans, the widow of Notorious B.I.G., adds an emotional depth to the song with her soulful singing.

“I’ll Be Missing You” became a massive commercial success, topping charts worldwide and winning a Grammy Award. The song resonated with many people who have lost a loved one, and it remains a poignant and powerful tribute to those we have lost.

13. “Wake Me Up When September Ends” – Green Day

• Singer: Billie Joe Armstrong
• Writer: Green Day
• Release Year: 2004

“ Wake Me Up When September Ends ” by Green Day is a deeply emotional song that touches on themes of loss and grief. Written by lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong about the death of his father, the song’s poignant lyrics and haunting melody capture the pain and sadness that come with losing a loved one. The song became an anthem for many people dealing with loss and grief, and its music video, which depicted the impact of war, added another layer of meaning to the song. “Wake Me Up When September Ends” became one of Green Day’s biggest hits, solidifying its place as one of the most powerful songs about death.

14. “Live Like You Were Dying” – Tim McGraw

• Singer: Tim McGraw
• Writer: Tim Nichols and Craig Wiseman

“ Live Like You Were Dying ” by Tim McGraw is an uplifting song about living life to the fullest in the face of death. The song tells the story of a man who is diagnosed with a terminal illness and decides to live his life to the fullest, doing all the things he always wanted to do.

The song’s message of living life with no regrets resonated with many people and became a huge commercial success, topping the country charts and winning several awards, including the Grammy for Best Country Song. “Live Like You Were Dying” is a powerful reminder to live life to the fullest and cherish every moment.

15. “In the Arms of an Angel” – Sarah McLachlan

“ In the Arms of an Angel ” by Sarah McLachlan is a beautiful and haunting song that has become synonymous with mourning and remembrance. The lyrics tell the story of finding comfort and solace in the midst of pain and loss, and the melody adds to the song’s emotional depth.

“In the Arms of an Angel” has been used in numerous movies and TV shows to underscore emotional scenes, and it has become a popular choice for memorials and tributes. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it remains one of the most powerful and moving songs about death.

16. “If I Die Young” – The Band Perry

• Singer: The Band Perry
• Writer: Kimberly Perry
• Release Year: 2010

“ If I Die Young ” by The Band Perry is a poignant song that reflects on the fragility of life and the beauty of living each moment to its fullest. The lyrics, written by lead singer Kimberly Perry, talk about the sadness of a life cut short but also the beauty that can be found in each moment. The melody, combined with the heartfelt lyrics, creates a moving and emotional song that resonates with listeners who have experienced loss or are grappling with their own mortality.

“If I Die Young” was a commercial success, topping the country charts and receiving critical acclaim. Its message of finding beauty in every moment, even in the face of death, has made it a powerful and memorable song about death.

17. “Dance with My Father” – Luther Vandross

• Singer: Luther Vandross
• Writer: Luther Vandross and Richard Marx
• Release Year: 2003

“ Dance with My Father ” by Luther Vandross is a touching tribute to his late father. The lyrics tell the story of a son’s longing to have one more moment with his deceased father, reflecting the deep pain and grief that comes with losing a loved one. The song’s emotional depth is enhanced by Vandross’s soulful voice and the beautiful melody.

“Dance with My Father” won several awards, including the Grammy for Song of the Year, and became one of Luther Vandross’s most popular and enduring songs. Its heartfelt message and emotional impact have made it a classic and one of the most moving songs about death.

18. “One More Day” – Diamond Rio

• Singer: Diamond Rio
• Writer: Bobby Tomberlin and Steven Dale Jones
• Release Year: 2000

“ One More Day ” by Diamond Rio is a heartfelt song about the wish to have just one more day with a loved one who has passed away. The lyrics express the deep sadness and longing that comes with losing someone close, and the desire to have just a little more time with them. The melody, combined with the heartfelt lyrics, creates a moving and emotional song that resonates with listeners who have experienced loss.

“One More Day” was a commercial success, topping the country charts and receiving critical acclaim. Its message of cherishing every moment with loved ones has made it a powerful and memorable song about death.

19. “The Dance” – Garth Brooks

• Singer: Garth Brooks
• Writer: Tony Arata
• Release Year: 1990

“ The Dance ” by Garth Brooks is a classic country song that reflects on the bittersweet nature of life and the beauty of experiencing joy and pain. The lyrics, written by Tony Arata, talk about the value of the journey, even when it ends in heartache. The melody, combined with Brooks’s emotive singing, creates a moving and emotional song that has resonated with many listeners.

“The Dance” was a commercial success and became one of Garth Brooks’s signature songs. Its message of embracing the ups and downs of life has made it a timeless and powerful song about death.

In conclusion, songs about death provide an essential outlet for expressing the complex emotions that come with loss and grief. They give voice to our deepest sorrows and help us find solace, understanding, and even hope in the face of death. Just like a compassionate friend who sits with us in silence, these songs wrap around us, offering comfort and empathy when we need it the most. Through relatable lyrics and poignant melodies, we are reminded that we are not alone in our pain and that it’s okay to grieve, remember, and honor our lost loved ones.

Songs about death carry the powerful message that love transcends physical presence, and that the bonds we share with those who have passed away continue to live on in our hearts and memories. By reflecting on the messages in these songs, we may find a pathway to healing and a gentle reminder that love, like music, is eternal.

Related posts:

• Top 21 Songs About Rain [Rainy Melodies]
• Best Songs About Moms: 20 Timeless Classics
• 20 Most Beloved Songs About Love Ever
• 17 Heartfelt Songs Addressing Suicide

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

19 Heartfelt “Celebration of Life” Songs to Honor a Loved One

by Renaissance Funeral Home | Funeral Prep , PrePlan

Music is the language of the heart, and there is no better time to express our emotions through song than at a Celebration of Life for a loved one. We gather to honor their memory and reflect on their beautiful life. And the perfect soundtrack can give us pause for thought and help us to cherish each memorable moment. Here we take a look at the standout celebration of life songs for funeral services. From timeless classics to heartwarming modern anthems – they are sure to evoke vivid memories and make your loved one’s memorial time meaningful.

Uplifting Funeral Songs Bring Hope

Uplifting funeral songs can be challenging to find, but they’re worth the search! The right songs can give funeral-goers a hopeful perspective amid the pain of loss. Popular memorial songs often bring grief to the surface as a song reminds us of a loved one’s life. The sweet memories of our loved one’s personality help us share our memories with others.

Part of grieving is often remembering the unique qualities of our loved one and speaking of our pain with others who understand. Sharing funeral songs at a celebration of life service is just what we need to help our hearts heal. 

Popular funeral songs help us celebrate life: the happy, the heartbreaking, and the bittersweet. These always authentic emotions dwell in the deepest parts of our hearts.

Celebration of Life Songs for Funeral Services

The perfect song can make all the difference at the right moment in a Celebration of Life service. So, let’s get started helping choose songs for your celebration of life ceremony.

1- One Sweet Day by Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men

One of the most popular and timeless celebration of life songs for funerals is “One Sweet Day” by Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men. This emotional ballad was released in 1995 and is a moving tribute to a lost loved one. It captures both the heartache of loss and the hope of reunion in the afterlife.

The song’s lyrics express the grief and longing of someone who has lost a loved one, and the desire to reunite with them in the future. The opening lines are especially poignant: “Sorry I never told you all I wanted to say / And now it’s too late to hold you / ‘Cause you’ve flown away, so far away.”

The song’s chorus is incredibly uplifting and powerful, with soaring harmonies calling out to their loved one in the afterlife: “And I know you’re shining down on me from heaven / Like so many friends we’ve lost along the way / And I know eventually we’ll be together / One sweet day.”

2- Time of Your Life by Green Day

“Time of Your Life” by Green Day is another popular celebration of life song often played at funerals and memorial services. The song, released in 1997, was an instant hit, capturing the hearts of millions of people worldwide with its poignant lyrics and simple yet powerful melody.

The song reflects on life’s journey and encourages us to appreciate the moments we have with our loved ones. The opening lines of the song are particularly touching: “Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road / Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go / So make the best of this test, and don’t ask why / It’s not a question, but a lesson learned in time.”

3- To Where You Are by Josh Groban

Josh Groban’s voice soars as he sings “To Where You Are.” The song talks about living forever and how our loved ones watch over us. The song is an excellent reflection on the eternity of existence.

In the song, Groban sings about how our loved ones are still with us no matter how far away they may be. It speaks of having faith that as long as we carry their memory, they will always remain close to us: “If God has taken you back, I’ll find my way back too / To where you are.”

The song describes the journey to find solace and comfort in knowing their loved one will always be with them: “I know you’re shining down on me from Heaven / Like so many friends we’ve lost along the way.” Groban’s heartfelt performance of this beautiful song makes it an ideal selection for a celebration of life service.

4- My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion

Celine Dion is a well-known powerhouse of a musician and has many moving songs for a funeral or celebration of life service. One of her most popular songs in this context is “My Heart Will Go On.”

The song’s lyrics are about moving forward after a loss, with lines like “Near, far, wherever you are / I believe that the heart does go on” and “You’re here, there’s nothing I fear / And I know that my heart will go on.”

Its themes of love, loss, and moving forward make it a popular choice for a funeral. It speaks to the idea that even though our loved ones may no longer be with us in physical form, they will always live on in our hearts.

5- I’ve Had the Time of My Life by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes

“I’ve Had the Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes is an iconic celebration of life song often played at funerals as a poignant reminder to cherish the time spent with our loved ones. 

The song’s stirring melody and heartwarming lyrics capture the essence of treasuring the fond memories of our loved ones and striving to make the most of our time on this earth.

Its uplifting chorus, “I’ve had the time of my life, and I owe it all to you,” has become synonymous with moments of celebration and gratitude. 

Whether played as a slow dance or sung as a heartfelt tribute, “I’ve Had the Time of My Life” is a timeless classic that captures the essence of life’s precious moments.

6- What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong

One of the most timeless classics for celebrating life is the eternally happy song, “What a Wonderful World.” Armstrong’s soulful and warm voice captures the essence of appreciating life’s beauty, even amid grief.

This song has become a beloved anthem for celebrating the life of a loved one who has passed. It’s timeless lyrics and uplifting melody make it the perfect choice for a funeral service. Its message of hope and appreciation for the simple things in life reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there is always something to be grateful for.

7- The Last Song by Elton John

“The Last Song” by Elton John is a heartfelt tribute to lost loved ones. The song was written as a dedication to John’s close friend, Ryan White, who died of AIDS-related complications in 1990.

The Last Song captures the essence of a father-son relationship with the healing of a rift. The song references the afterlife, emphasizing that death isn’t the end but rather the beginning of an eternal journey.

8- Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton

“Tears in Heaven” is a heart-wrenching ballad written by Eric Clapton after the tragic death of his four-year-old son, Conor, in 1991. Clapton’s emotional and raw vocals, combined with the haunting melody make this song a powerful choice for a celebration of life service.

The modern funeral song encapsulates the heartache of losing someone close to us while paying tribute to their memory. Clapton, who struggled with addiction throughout his life, found solace in his music and used “Tears in Heaven” to process his grief.

9- Ribbon in the Sky by Stevie Wonder

“Ribbon in the Sky” is a moving ballad released by Stevie Wonder in 1982. The song details the desire to reach out to a loved one who has passed away and connect with them once more.

Wonder offers a profoundly poetic and metaphorical tribute that has become one of the best songs to celebrate life. The ‘ribbon’ is a metaphor for the connection that binds us, as an eternal ribbon, forever wrapping around a lost love.

The beauty of “Ribbon in the Sky” lies resonates with anyone who has ever faced loss. It is an uplifting and powerful song that can help to ease the pain of grief.

10- I Look to You by Whitney Houston

“I Look to You” is a beautiful and touching tribute to the power of faith, hope, and resilience. The song was written as a prayer in difficult times and serves as an inspiring reminder that no matter how dark our days may seem, there is always light at the end of the tunnel.

The song’s poignant lyrics will bring comfort to mourners and serve as a reminder of the power of love and hope at a celebration of life service. Its uplifting melody will surely bring joy and peace in an otherwise difficult moment.

11- Unforgettable by Nat King Cole

“Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole is a classic celebration of life song that is often included in a traditional funeral service. The song’s lyrics, “Unforgettable, that’s what you are” perfectly capture the sentiment of remembering the unique qualities and personality of a loved one. 

Cole’s smooth and soulful voice adds a warm nostalgia to the song, making it a touching tribute to the joys that our loved ones brought into our lives.

12- You’ve Got a Friend by James Taylor

This is the song to remember a loved one who was always there for their friends, no matter what. It helps us remember to call on the special people in our lives and know that no matter what happens, we always hold a piece of their loving spirit with us as long as we live.

“You’ve Got a Friend” is a touching tribute to the enduring bonds of friendship. Taylor’s warm and comforting voice shines through in the song, offering solace to those grieving the loss of a loved one. The lyrics, “You just call out my name, and you know wherever I am, I’ll come running to see you again” capture the essence of true friendship and the constant support that it brings.

13- My Sweet Lord by George Harrison

“My Sweet Lord” is a powerful and uplifting song that celebrates the spiritual side of life. The song was written and performed by former Beatles member George Harrison and released in 1970.

The song is a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, with a stirring gospel choir and elements of Indian classical music.

In “My Sweet Lord,” Harrison sings, “I really want to see you, Lord, but it takes so long, my Lord.” This lyric expresses many people’s longing for a connection with a higher power and the sense of searching and seeking that often accompanies spiritual exploration.

14- My Way by Frank Sinatra

One of Frank Sinatra’s best-known and most beloved songs that has become popular for funerals is “My Way.” This iconic ballad is a favorite song for a funeral. It’s message of self-assurance and individuality is a fitting tribute to a life well-lived.

The lyrics, “I did it my way,” celebrate a life lived on one’s own terms and the unique contributions a person makes to the world. This sentiment is especially poignant at a funeral, where mourners reflect on the legacy of the person they have lost.

Sinatra’s peerless vocal performance, combined with the song’s inspirational lyrics, make “My Way” a stirring and uplifting choice for a funeral.

15- Amazing Grace by Alan Jackson

“Amazing Grace” is a beautiful and emotional tribute to the power of faith and redemption. Originally a Christian hymn written in the late 1700s by John Newton, the song has become an uplifting funeral song for those looking for hope at a memorial service.

Jackson’s version of the song is a simple and stripped-down interpretation, with just his voice and acoustic guitar. Jackson’s deep, resonant voice perfectly captures the solemnity and reverence of the song.

The lyrics of “Amazing Grace” tell the story of a person saved from a life of guilt and condemnation and delivered into the light of God’s grace. The opening lines, “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound / That saved a wretch like me,” express a sense of awe and gratitude for the transformative power of faith. His rendition of the line, “I once was lost, but now am found / Was blind, but now I see,” is particularly moving, conveying a sense of liberation and rebirth.

16- On the Wings of An Eagle by John Denver

John Denver’s “On the Wings of An Eagle” is a poignant and uplifting tribute to the power of love and the eternal bond between loved ones. Released in 1990, it quickly became a popular choice for funerals and memorial services.

The song is a profoundly emotional testament to the feelings of grief and loss that follow the passing of a loved one. Its opening lines, “It’s just another morning / In a world that’s full of pain,” capture the profound sense of emptiness and longing many people experience during mourning.

The chorus, with its refrain of “On the wings of an eagle / My love will carry me,” is a powerful reminder that love transcends even the most incredible distances and can carry us through even the darkest times.

17- Meet Me in Heaven by Johnny Cash

“Meet Me in Heaven” is a poignant and reflective song by the legendary Johnny Cash. It was released in 2002 and quickly became popular for funerals and memorial services. This great song is a touching tribute to reunification with loved ones after death.

Cash’s voice grows soulful and vibrant at the chorus with its call-and-response structure and message of hope. “Meet me in heaven / We’ll join hands together / Meet me by the Savior’s side / Meet me in heaven.”

18- Will the Circle Be Unbroken by the Randy Travis

“Will the Circle Be Unbroken” was first recorded by the Carter Family in 1935 and has since been covered by countless artists.

Travis’ voice creates a sense of warmth and comfort, perfect for a funeral or memorial service. The chorus, with its repeating line of “Will the circle be unbroken / By and by, Lord, by and by,” is a powerful reminder of the cyclical nature of life and death.

19- The Lord Is My Shepherd by Bobby Mcferrin

One of Bobby McFerrin’s most popular songs for a Celebration of Life service is “The Lord Is My Shepherd.” This song is based on the well-known Psalm 23 and is a soothing hymn that brings comfort and hope to those grieving.

This modern take on an old scripture opens with the line “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want,” which speaks of the comfort and confidence of placing our trust in God. The simplicity of the arrangement allows the lyrics to take center stage, conveying the message of hope and peace that is so important during a celebration of life service.

As the song progresses, the choir’s voices grow more robust, conveying hope and comfort to all gathered to remember their loved one. The song’s final lines sum up its central message: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

It IS a Wonderful World

Sometimes the pain of loss can make us forget that we live in a world full of hope and beauty, even amidst our struggles. When we’re in the valley without light, we often forget there was ever a sunny mountaintop.

Funeral goers are especially in need of remembering the good times with others. Celebration of Life songs can bring a loving and hopeful perspective to an otherwise dreary event. Choosing a happy funeral song to mix in with the more heartfelt songs can make any traditional funeral service feel more uplifting.

The right music can express what a special person you’ve lost. No one can say that life is easy or we don’t face pain and sorrow. However, finding what we can be grateful for, even amid pain, can help us cope with daily life after a death in the family.

We Can Help

We understand the importance of celebrating life at Renaissance Funeral Home and Crematory. Our experienced and caring staff take special care to ensure that a Celebration of Life service reflects the spirit and personality of your loved one perfectly.

We believe that creating the perfect tribute for a loved one is essential to honoring their memory. And we are proud to offer our creative expertise in helping you create the perfect celebration of life service.

We offer a wide range of services, including pre-plan funeral services, a cremation tribute center, music selection assistance, and more. Please call us today to learn more about how we can help you make plans and gather with your family to celebrate a loved one.

Recent Posts

• My Husband Passed Away. What Do I Do?
• Uplifting Comfort: Grief Quotes to Revive Your Soul
• What Not to Do When Someone Dies: 10 Common Mistakes
• Your Life, Your Legacy: Funeral Preplanning for Your Final Farewell
• Stress-Free Funeral Planning in Raleigh: 8 Easy Steps to Done
• Buddhist Funerals
• Catholic Funerals
• Disposition
• Funeral Prep
• Green Burial
• Hindu Funerals
• Jewish Funerals
• Traditional Burial

Follow The Ringer online:

• Follow The Ringer on Twitter
• Follow The Ringer on Instagram
• Follow The Ringer on Youtube

Site search

• House of the Dragon
• What to Watch
• Bill Simmons Podcast
• 24 Question Party People
• 60 Songs That Explain the ’90s
• Against All Odds
• Bachelor Party
• The Bakari Sellers Podcast
• Beyond the Arc
• The Big Picture
• Black Girl Songbook
• Book of Basketball 2.0
• Boom/Bust: HQ Trivia
• Counter Pressed
• The Dave Chang Show
• East Coast Bias
• Every Single Album: Taylor Swift
• Extra Point Taken
• Fairway Rollin’
• Fantasy Football Show
• The Fozcast
• The Full Go
• Gambling Show
• Gene and Roger
• Higher Learning
• The Hottest Take
• Jam Session
• Just Like Us
• Larry Wilmore: Black on the Air
• Last Song Standing
• The Local Angle
• Masked Man Show
• The Mismatch
• Mint Edition
• Morally Corrupt Bravo Show
• New York, New York
• Off the Pike
• One Shining Podcast
• Philly Special
• Plain English
• The Pod Has Spoken
• The Press Box
• The Prestige TV Podcast
• Recipe Club
• The Rewatchables
• Ringer Dish
• The Ringer-Verse
• The Ripple Effect
• The Rugby Pod
• The Ryen Russillo Podcast
• Sports Cards Nonsense
• Slow News Day
• Speidi’s 16th Minute
• Somebody’s Gotta Win
• Sports Card Nonsense
• This Blew Up
• Trial by Content
• Ringer Wrestling Worldwide
• What If? The Len Bias Story
• Wrighty’s House
• Wrestling Show
• Latest Episodes
• All Podcasts

Filed under:

• Video Games
• Pop Culture

The Appeal of Playing Together, Alone

They don’t dominate the online multiplayer conversation like ‘Fortnite,’ but games such as ‘Elden Ring,’ ‘Dragon’s Dogma,’ ‘Death Stranding,’ and ‘Journey’ have broadened the possibilities of online play by letting players forge fleeting, tenuous, yet meaningful connections

Share this story

• Share this on Facebook
• Share this on Twitter
• Share All sharing options

Share All sharing options for: The Appeal of Playing Together, Alone

Playing together, alone. It sounds like a paradox, yet the idea has yielded some of the most memorable moments in the past 15 years of gaming. Think of the primordial landscape in Death Stranding , lit up like a Christmas tree by the holographic messages of other players. In Journey , you’re collaborating with strangers in a glittering, gold desert and maybe spending a magical 90 minutes with them ascending a mountain. Perhaps you recall walking up to a giant, slumbering tortoise in FromSoftware’s magisterial open-world role-playing game, Elden Ring , only to be stopped in your tracks by that message, or a version of it: “ Behold, dog .”

For many, these games will manifest in their mind’s eye as single-player experiences: You step out into their adventure-promising worlds as a lone avatar, and you will, for the greater part of their durations, traipse about with little more than your own thoughts for company.

Yet humming beneath these single-player facades of exquisitely detailed worlds and rich narratives are multiplayer components that, just as much as finely honed world-building, breathe life into these virtual settings. In the case of Elden Ring , as well as the other Soulsborne games dating all the way back to 2009’s Demon’s Souls , multiplayer presents itself not through competitive, sports-like encounters but via more ethereal connections. With the Friday release of Shadow of the Erdtree , the highly anticipated expansion to the modern action RPG classic, more of these connections are set to be made. Players will yet again leave cryptic (and not-so-cryptic) messages for those following in their footsteps while also roaming about their game world as phantoms, the bloodstained ghosts of their former selves. Messages are etched into the terrain of Elden Ring ’s game world; its very air is suffused with phantoms.

If there is a term that accurately describes Elden Ring ’s multiplayer experience, and that captures the wider atmospheric allure of playing together, alone , it’s “ambient multiplayer.” Keza MacDonald used the term to describe Journey ’s multiplayer in her 2012 review of the game for The Guardian , noting how being paired up with strangers heightened the game’s emotional impact . Writing for The Verge about Dragon’s Dogma 2 , Capcom’s 2024 open-world RPG hit, Alexis Ong referred to its Pawn system (in which you create non-player character companions that can be downloaded by other players) as “ambient multiplayer.” In Journey , you fleetingly occupy the same virtual space as another player; in Dragon’s Dogma 2 , you don’t—yet in both games, the presence of other players is woven into the texture of the game world like any other element.

There are further examples of ambient multiplayer: Drei , an underappreciated yet beautifully designed game from 2013 in which players collaborate to solve physics-based puzzles; 2018’s Ashen , an artful, indie take on FromSoftware’s Souls formula in which players can unexpectedly arrive in the game worlds of others. Grand space exploration game No Man’s Sky is a rare title whose multiplayer (added in a 2018 update ) is explicitly referred to by its makers as “ambient.” There is scarcely a more thrilling social moment in a video game than when you bump into another spacefarer in the farthest reaches of No Man’s Sky ’s vast, procedurally generated galaxy and exchange a few emotes, and perhaps a gift or two.

None of these games (not even the cultural juggernaut Elden Ring ) feature heavily in the conversation about the current golden age of multiplayer , yet together they have unequivocally broadened the tonal possibilities of online play. They’re a far cry from the titles synonymous with this multiplayer boom: synchronous, mostly competitive shooters such as Fortnite , Overwatch , Call of Duty , and Counter-Strike , games that, between them, can boast more than 60 million active players in a single day. These are games of death matches and battle royales decided by headshots and killstreaks, and they are underpinned by robust matchmaking systems and high-speed internet.

“There is a lot of logistics and technical overhead to stand up a server and have people play live,” says Jamie Smith, a principal designer at People Can Fly, the studio behind the 2021 online co-op shooter Outriders . Smith doesn’t see a “solid” definition for ambient multiplayer but notes the way it often incorporates elements of asynchronous multiplayer, i.e., multiplayer that doesn’t rely on people’s ability to be online at the same time. He draws a useful comparison: If synchronous multiplayer is dependent on raw logistics to function, then ambient multiplayer, which can be asynchronous in nature, is either about “overcoming” such logistics or obscuring them entirely.

Patrick Klepek, an editor for Remap Radio , emphasizes the emotional tenor of these atypical multiplayer experiences: “There is something about being with an anonymous player which is just a little more serene, calming, and enjoyable than when it’s in the context of ranked players, usernames, and kill/death stats.”

In the summer of 2001, Capcom game director Hideaki Itsuno had just wrapped up work on the fighting game Capcom vs. SNK 2 . He and his colleagues were sitting in the office of their employer in downtown Osaka brainstorming ways to build upon Capcom’s 1996 arcade game Dungeons & Dragons: Shadow Over Mystara . Itsuno wanted to create a more “realistic” take on that game, one in full 3D; he also intended to incorporate “online network” features, no mean feat in the early aughts, a time when most people’s internet arrived via a noisy phone line prone to intermittently cutting out. His workaround for these logistical challenges was captivatingly elegant: a game which, unlike synchronous experiences, “relied on the very short time of being connected.”

It would take a full 11 years for Itsuno’s idea to eventually become Dragon’s Dogma (he was busy helming three entries in the blockbuster action series Devil May Cry ). By 2008, when the game was in development, broadband was slowly creeping into the mainstream, while online multiplayer was well-established on consoles, thanks to games like Halo 2 and SOCOM U.S. Navy SEALs . The technical barriers of years prior were removed, yet Itsuno remained committed to his original asynchronous vision for the Pawn system: He wanted users to download NPC companions rather than play with other gamers via wholesale, real-time co-op. Itsuno would draw inspiration from old-school bulletin board systems and other unlikely sources: an odd PlayStation game from 1999 called Doko Demo Issyo , and, yet more bizarrely, PostPet , a 1997 email client system featuring mail-delivering animals.

In Doko Demo Issyo , it’s possible to teach the meanings of words to computer-controlled characters you train and then have them play word games with other users using rudimentary network features. In PostPet, when another person’s pet arrives bearing an email, you’re able to communicate with it by praising, petting, poking, and teasing it, after which the pet reports back to its owner about those interactions. The key point, explains Itsuno via email, is that customization is always an “expression of the player,” and, to some extent, a “substitute for real-time communication.”

A version of this plays out in the ambient multiplayer of both Dragon’s Dogma and its 2024 sequel. As with PostPet’s asynchronous communication (the pet returns to the user bearing evidence of its travels), a Pawn that has been downloaded by other players returns to its own player’s game world bearing gifts and information about where it’s been. Logging back into the game after a few weeks is never less than a delight as your Pawn unfurls practically an entire treasure chest’s worth of goodies: expensive jewelry (if you’re lucky); a ferrystone, perhaps (crucial for fast travel); aged scrag (a curative meat); and, in all likelihood, more than a few rotten apples.

“Since players are playing the same game, they have a common understanding of the value of each item, how hard it is to get, how expensive, how useful, etc.,” writes Itsuno. “So when players receive a gift, they can feel in a very real way how much the journey with their Pawn was enjoyed.” The system even allows for high-level items (relative to the receiver), and those that might disrupt the story line, to be exchanged. Itsuno believes “this allows the player’s emotions, such as surprise and gratitude to play a much larger role.”

In 2012, like today, online usage fees applied to real-time competitive and cooperative play, but, says Itsuno, a “small amount of [data] storage could be used for free.” Dragon’s Dogma took advantage of this storage reserved on free servers, the result, the director stresses, “of many meetings with the engineers of the hardware manufacturers of the time.” It was all in service of a more “casual” form of online play, one implemented within the “scope of a free service.”

One can wax lyrical about the thematic significance of the Pawns within the larger franchise story: the way they must be sacrificed to reach the true ending of Dragon’s Dogma 2 and the existential questions they pose—are they mindlessly servile or some doomed fragment of our former selves? Yet the system also arose from a more straightforwardly humble desire; Itsuno had just reached his 30s when conceiving Dragon’s Dogma in 2001. Prior to that moment, the director had dedicated himself to the visceral, real-time combat of fighting games (credits include seminal titles of the Y2K era such as Power Stone and Rival Schools: United by Fate ). Now he was searching for a different type of experience.

“After work, when you are tired, when you want to take a break, when you feel like playing a long session, I wanted to be able to play without having to adjust to other people,” he says. Dragon’s Dogma would come to embody the oxymoronic appeal of such ambient multiplayer experiences—a desire for connection but, crucially, not too much . “I wanted to be able to play freely without worrying about others,” continues Itsuno. “But I also wanted to be able to connect with other people and have adventures together.”

According to the creative director of Journey , Jenova Chen, the advancing age of designers was a big factor behind the takeoff of this flavor of unorthodox multiplayer in the late aughts and early 2010s. “People were getting old,” he says. “Developers were getting to the age where they didn’t just want to be a space marine or a soldier.” Chen points to the online co-op of 2008’s Left 4 Dead and Elden Ring ’s ultimate antecedent, 2009’s Demon’s Souls , as originating genuinely new online interactions. “We were bored. We had played enough competitive games,” he continues. “We were wondering, is there anything more than killing each other?”

Journey debuted in 2012 to rapturous acclaim partly because of the way it hewed traditional synchronous multiplayer down to its core: spatial presence. There is no violent gameplay in Journe y, no aggravating voice and text chat, and certainly no option to crouch (thus removing the potential for teabagging ). Nor is there traditional matchmaking: Instead, the game connects players based on their locations within the game world, a design choice, Chen explains, made in an effort to sync people up according to their gameplay interests. Prefer to venture off the beaten path in search of secrets? Journey will pair you with a player who is exploring the same pocket of outlying desert, driven, presumably, by a similarly deeply held desire for undiscovered treasures. “In that situation, the connection is genuine,” says Chen. “It’s not forced.”

What did Sony, the game’s publisher, make of this minimalist take on multiplayer? “They didn’t like it,” says Chen. “They said, ‘Right now, multiplayer games are popular. You’ve got to allow people to invite their friends to play with [them]. That will increase your sales.’” Chen pushed back because, he argued, friend invitations would create an expectation of being able to speak with others over voice chat. If you can talk to friends that way, why not strangers? It would cause the game’s “serendipitous human encounters” to become meetings between “specific” people with “specific accents.” The game’s fiction, its retelling of the hero’s journey in broad, deliberately universal strokes, and thus its emotional resonance, would be undermined by such specificity. Chen wanted to avoid this at all costs.

Sony might not have been enthusiastic that Journey was forgoing friend invitations, but at least forgoing that functionality was a straightforward technical process. That wasn’t the case for obscuring player names, whose silliness (and sometimes distastefulness) would also disrupt the carefully crafted emotional register Chen was aiming for. “As soon as you connect to someone online, PlayStation broadcasts the player’s name across the media box,” he explains. “You pause the game, and you can see who you’re playing with.” This wouldn’t do, so Chen and his colleagues devised an ingenious and subversive solution. “We made a hack so that the player name wasn’t even sent to the operating system,” he says. This time, Sony’s response was marginally warmer: “They respected us for sticking to our guns.”

The resulting in-game encounters are arguably as close to pure magic as video games have yet come: Dressed in billowing red robes, players seem to almost miraculously appear out of the ether, like some kind of deified companion. In a celebratory 10-year anniversary piece on the game for The Verge , Jay Peters wrote about the wordless “rapport” he built up with a stranger and the way their death made him feel like he had “actually lost a friend.” In a broader sense, Klepek remains enraptured by the “brief, shared, communal experiences” for which Journey has set the standard. “You have none of the tactile information that we normally associate with social experiences: conversation, text, things like that. So you have to imbue it with meaning yourself,” he says. “You have to interpret their actions. You have to apply how you felt about the experience, how they interacted or didn’t interact with you.”

Drei could be considered a cousin of Journey , released just a year later in 2013 yet conceived of in the mid-aughts as an exercise in fostering connectivity between strangers. Its makers, Christian Etter and Mario von Rickenbach, didn’t market the physics-based puzzle game as a multiplayer experience. Rather, its online encounters occurred seamlessly if a number of factors were satisfied: Players had to be in the same level; they had to be geographically close to one another; and, crucially, their internet connections had to be of comparable quality. As in Journey , communication was deliberately curtailed, which fostered a unique culture of communication. Bobbing up and down in the game’s weightless environments quickly became an expression of joy that then propagated throughout the network as players copied one another. “In this weird, abstract world, emergent behavior developed,” says Etter, “a behavioral language.”

Journey ’s and Drei ’s communicatively sparse multiplayer experiences also double as an ingenious moderation solution, suggests Klepek. Many developers, particularly at indie studios (for whom monitoring and policing what players say and do is a gigantic logistical and financial issue), have told Klepek the same thing: “It’s a lot easier just to not let players say the racial slurs at all.”

“ Try finger, but hole .” The players of FromSoftware games have devised innumerable ingenious ways of expressing themselves precisely because they cannot write whatever messages they want; they are limited by the vocabulary FromSoftware offers them. In a game world of opaque lore, arcane dialogue, and tangled, mazelike environments, these messages function like a player-driven guide system: a helping hand from the community when the designers themselves appear to deliberately withhold information and even attempt outright deception.

Yet for every helpful pointer left by a conscientious fellow traveler, there is a corresponding shitpost scrawled by a troll. Both can elicit a smile: one grateful, the other wry. Klepek sees the comedic nature of the messaging system as a “direct extension” of the trickery and comedy of Souls games themselves. He doesn’t go as far as saying the messaging system has been designed outright to facilitate such jokes, but he isn’t “surprised that’s where it ended up.” For a maker of high-fantasy series that are dark, oppressive, and isolating, says Klepek, FromSoftware goes out of its way to “create a sense of community” amid this aesthetic.

The culture expressed in the multiplayer of FromSoftware’s games—the banter, memes, and, throughout it all, sense of camaraderie—offers a clue as to why ambient multiplayer experiences haven’t proliferated to a greater degree. “They tend to be tailored to the core experience,” says Smith, who references one memorable synchronous element in Demon’s Souls multiplayer: the Old Monk boss. That particular enemy, located beyond a fog door at the top of a winding staircase, may either be controlled by AI or by another player —an act of devious trickery on the part of FromSoftware. “You couldn’t take that example and put it in Call of Duty because it’s so specific to a melee encounter in a third-person game that’s very hostile in which you’re constrained by the environment,” says Smith. “It’s unique to that experience.”

The elusive, hard-to-define ambient multiplayer is perhaps resistant to the type of convergence that has occurred in synchronous, competitive multiplayer over the past 10 years. Many of the biggest competitive titles riff on similar (and oftentimes identical) game modes, monetization models, and means of forging connections. The specificity of ambient and asynchronous multiplayer doesn’t “limit its potential,” says Smith. It simply helps “elevate such experiences”—causing them to linger in the mind long after you’ve set down the controller.

Ambient multiplayer was forged in the crucible of the late aughts and early 2010s: advancing hardware; the rise of broadband; aging developers who, as per Chen’s contention, were searching for an emotional gratification that lay beyond the reticle of a gun. The period was one of increasing experimentation for indie developers, who had access to better tools, and larger studios, whose budgets had not yet swollen to today’s eye-watering sizes ( Horizon Forbidden West reportedly cost $212 million to develop over a five-year period). Put simply, technology, studio, and market conditions enabled greater creative risk-taking.

Etter doesn’t shy away from the reactionary nature of Drei or any of these other titles, the way they were created in opposition to the popular multiplayer games of the era like Call of Duty and FIFA . “It was certainly a response to that,” he says of Drei . “It was certainly trying to break the mold a little bit for others. It was about realizing you can make a game about anything. It doesn’t need to be in these preset narratives.”

This anything-can-be-a-game (or, at least, anything-can-inspire-a-game) philosophy permeates Elden Ring ’s progenitor and a trailblazer of ambient multiplayer: Demon’s Souls . FromSoftware’s inaugural entry in its Souls series evokes some of the most well-worn, archetypal design principles in all of gaming: an uncompromising level of challenge that gradually gives way to a hard-earned sense of mastery; labyrinthine spaces of Gothic grandeur that simultaneously invoke dread and wonder. The game also traffics in quintessential medieval fantasy tropes: knights swinging swords taller than themselves; fire-breathing dragons with scaly weak spots. Yet the phantoms, the flickering mainstays of the Soulsborne games for 15 years, the elements that arguably contribute the most to their ambient multiplayer, emerged from less insular influences.

As the story goes, game director Hidetaka Miyazaki had the idea for phantoms after his car, and those behind it, became trapped in snow on a hill. The cavalcade of vehicles, starting with one at the very back, began to push one another up the hill before disappearing into the dead of night without even exchanging a word. “I couldn’t stop the car to say thanks to the people who gave me a shove. I’d have just got stuck again if I’d stopped,” Miyazaki told Eurogamer in 2010. “On the way back home I wondered whether the last person in the line had made it home, and thought that I would probably never meet the people who had helped me. I thought that maybe if we’d met in another place we’d become friends, or maybe we’d just fight.”

Miyazaki called this wintry chance meeting “a connection of mutual assistance between transient people,” which sums up the collaborative core of ambient multiplayer. This is precisely what it means to build physical infrastructure (bridges, ladders, zip lines) in Death Stranding , helping other players traverse the vertiginous terrain, all while the “ keep on keeping on ” hologram chimes in your (and their) ears. In Journey , the kind of ephemeral encounter that Miyazaki describes elevates the game from a stylistically ravishing third-person adventure to a genuinely profound meditation on human nature in the age of the internet. Now we have Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree , a vast and sprawling living text created not just by the developers at FromSoftware but also by the legion of players whose ghostly actions and often charmingly idiotic messages are an indelible yet evanescent part of the in-game mythology. In an era when our real lives have begun to resemble a kind of ambient multiplayer game (replete with the “self-destructing” messages of Snapchat and Instagram Stories), these games make communication feel vital, surprising, and playful rather than like an exhausting chore.

With his reflections on that incident in the car, it’s as if Miyazaki inadvertently articulated the fundamentals of ambient multiplayer design. Nearly 15 years later, it still feels as if game makers are only scratching at the surface of its potential. These shared, mostly anonymous moments do not last forever, which is precisely the point, and the well from which they draw much of their emotional potency. “Simply because it’s fleeting, I think it stays with you a lot longer,” said Miyazaki. “Like the cherry blossoms we Japanese love so much.”

Lewis Gordon is a writer and journalist living in Glasgow who contributes to outlets including The Verge , Wired , and Vulture .

Next Up In Video Games

Nintendo news and ‘elden ring: shadow of the erdtree’ impressions.

• Ringer-Verse Recommends: May 2024
• Build the Best Video Game Remake Roster Draft
• The 2004 Video Game Draft
• ‘Knuckles’ and ‘Stellar Blade’ Reactions
• ‘Fallout’ Season 1 Reactions

Sign up for the The Ringer Newsletter

Thanks for signing up.

Check your inbox for a welcome email.

Oops. Something went wrong. Please enter a valid email and try again.

Plus, the biggest news from this week’s Nintendo Direct, gaming’s stacked release schedule for 2024, and what the Switch 2’s launch lineup could look like

The Lakers Hire JJ Redick, LeBron’s Window, and Our Worst Takes From the Season

Logan, Raja, and Howard also talk about the Alex Caruso–Josh Giddey trade and how it helps OKC

The Greatest Shot in Tournament History, UNC’s Redemption Run, and JJ Redick’s Lakers Era With Kris Jenkins

Tate talks to NCAA champion Kris Jenkins about "the shot" vs. North Carolina in the national title game, the "Villanova Knicks," the current state of the Big East, his choice for this year’s no. 1 overall draft pick, and more

Kenya Moore Suspended Indefinitely! Plus ‘Jersey’ and ‘Dubai.’

Rachel Lindsay and Callie Curry react to the recent news of Kenya Moore’s suspension from ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta,’ Margaret’s screenshot arsenal on ‘The Real Housewives of New Jersey,’ and the "tiki tiki" of it all from ‘The Real Housewives of Dubai’

We Break Down England Vs. Denmark

The Football Fill-In is in Germany, and this time, we are breaking down the England vs. Denmark game

The Nine Movie Roles—and TV Cameo—That Defined Donald Sutherland

From his spellbinding ‘JFK’ scene to the trauma-horror of ‘Don’t Look Now’ to his ‘Simpsons’ cameo, these are some of the standouts from Sutherland, who died this week at 88

• Share full article

For more audio journalism and storytelling, download New York Times Audio , a new iOS app available for news subscribers.

• June 21, 2024   •   33:22 America’s Top Doctor on Why He Wants Warning Labels on Social Media
• June 20, 2024   •   30:15 The Mysterious Gun Study That’s Advancing Gun Rights
• June 18, 2024   •   32:00 A Novel Legal Strategy for Mass Shooting Victims’ Families
• June 17, 2024   •   25:41 Abortion United Evangelicals and Republicans. Now That Alliance Is Fraying.
• June 14, 2024   •   34:50 How to Retire as Early as Humanly Possible
• June 13, 2024   •   31:20 Inside Trump’s Search for a Vice President
• June 12, 2024   •   27:55 The Criminal Conviction of Hunter Biden
• June 11, 2024   •   24:11 Biden’s Hard-Line Effort to Close the Border
• June 10, 2024   •   33:44 The Rise and Fall of Congestion Pricing in New York
• June 7, 2024   •   30:00 Real Teenagers, Fake Nudes: The Rise of Deepfakes in American Schools
• June 6, 2024   •   23:38 The Fight Over the Next Pandemic
• June 5, 2024   •   30:42 Biden’s Push to End the War in Gaza

America’s Top Doctor on Why He Wants Warning Labels on Social Media

The surgeon general says parents should be aware that using the platforms might harm adolescents’ mental health..

Hosted by Sabrina Tavernise

Produced by Lynsea Garrison ,  Rob Szypko ,  Alex Stern and Rikki Novetsky

Edited by Lexie Diao and Michael Benoist

Original music by Dan Powell and Chelsea Daniel

Engineered by Alyssa Moxley

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube

Warning: This episode contains mentions of bullying and suicide.

A rising tide of mental health problems among teenagers has sent parents, teachers and doctors searching for answers. This week, the U.S. surgeon general, Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, offered one: social media.

Today, Dr. Murthy discusses his proposal to require platforms such as YouTube, TikTok and Instagram to include warning labels, like those that appear on tobacco and alcohol products.

On today’s episode

Dr. Vivek H. Murthy , the U.S. surgeon general.

Background reading

Dr. Murthy cannot unilaterally impose warnings on social media; the action requires approval by Congress .

Read a guest essay by Dr. Murthy: Why I’m Calling for a Warning Label on Social Media Platforms .

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson, Nina Lassam and Nick Pitman.

An earlier version of this episode misstated one of Donald Sutherland’s most notable roles. He starred in the film M*A*S*H, not the television series that followed.

How we handle corrections

Advertisement