Tag Archives: Memorial Songs

“Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton

A touching ballad asks unanswerable questions

The death of a child is the most devastating loss a person can experience. Many people never recover completely from the overwhelming sense of loss and grief. Marriages crumble; relationships fall apart; despair becomes a part of the fabric of … Continue reading

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“Memphis Skyline” by Rufus Wainwright

A beautiful memorial song dedicated to Jeff Buckley

Envy and deep respect are in perfect harmony in Rufus Wainwright‘s touching tribute song, “Memphis Skyline.” As a longtime fan of the late singer Jeff Buckley, Wainwright penned the tune to honor Buckley’s unexpected death at a young age. Today, it … Continue reading

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“Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M. Consoles and Inspires

Song for funeral or memorial brings mourners together

The experience of grief can include rapidly fluctuating, intense feelings such as depression, hopelessness, anger, apathy, frustration, and fear. For many of us, it will be the closest we come to feeling totally, completely unhinged, groundless, and alien to the whole … Continue reading

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“Lay Me Down” by Sam Smith

Heartfelt song gives a voice to grief beyond reason

We have all been there: standing before a stark reality and wishing against all reason that what we know to be true isn’t so. A common trait encouraged in children is to be moderate, thoughtful and temperate with their emotions … Continue reading

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“Grace” by Jeff Buckley

A stunning funeral song that celebrates both life and death

Like many of Jeff Buckley’s songs, “Grace” has taken on new meaning almost 20 years after the singer’s death. Buckley dives into an interesting paradox in the song: Life feels short and fragile, yet it also moves at a molasses-like pace. … Continue reading

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Funeral Music: The Uplifting Gospel of “I’ll Fly Away” by Albert E. Brumley

Covered by countless artists, this hymn stands the test of time

This is black history month and so I have uplifting gospels on my mind. Sometimes, simplicity is everything. When you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, or you’re coping with your own mortality, nothing is more soothing than a handful … Continue reading

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