Tag Archives: Memorial Songs

“Copenhagen” by Lucinda Williams

A haunting song that encapsulates how the psychological and emotional severity of grief and loss knows no age boundaries

In 2011, this beautifully haunting song, written and sung by the immensely talented Lucinda Williams, appeared on her album, Blessed. Williams wrote “Copenhagen” after the sudden death of her manager, Frank Callari. In Lucinda Williams’ own words, “We were in Copenhagen … Continue reading

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“Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again” from “The Phantom of the Opera”

The young heroine grieves the loss of her father in an unforgettable memorial song

Christine Daaé, once an obscure ballerina, is given a lead singing role in “Don Juan”, an opera written by the Phantom of the Opera, a disfigured man who is obsessed with the lovely, young woman. This opera is actually a … Continue reading

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 “Death With Dignity” by Sufjan Stevens

A memorial song that captures loss, longing and the pain of coming to terms with a parent's personal failures

In the first few lines in the first song off his newest album, Sufjan Stevens invokes a sacred silence, desire, confusion and fear: “Spirit of my silence I can hear you / But I am afraid to be near you.” In … Continue reading

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“Wake Me Up When September Ends” by Green Day

This mournful song acts as a reminder to cherish our loved ones while we have them

The iconic modern-punk band Green Day is no stranger to writing and performing mournful and nostalgic ballads. As we’ve seen before, their early song, “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life),” has served as an inspiration to many who play it … Continue reading

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“Here Comes Those Tears Again” by Jackson Browne

A haunting and reflective memorial song that touches on the narrator’s struggle with his deep grief over the loss of a lover

When Jackson Browne — best known for his hits like “Doctor My Eyes” and “Running On Empty” — lost his first wife to suicide, he channeled his grief into the hauntingly beautiful “Here Comes Those Tears Again” that was partially … Continue reading

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”There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” by The Smiths

Morrissey croons about love conquering death in this classic memorial song from The Smiths

The Smiths’ frontman Morrissey isn’t squeamish about death. He’s mused on the subject dozens of times throughout his expansive career in The Smiths and as a solo artist. His fascination with death is showcased best in the 1992 hit “There … Continue reading

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