Saying goodbye to a loved one at a funeral is among the most challenging and heartbreaking things to face. But, often, what can’t be told in a loved one’s eulogy can be said through song.
During their reign at the top of the music charts, The Beatles wrote and sang some of the most iconic songs ever. While the group’s saccharinely sweet love tunes in their early discography may not work at a funeral, some of their later tunes can strike the right tone.
Here are the best Beatles funeral songs.
“Let It Be” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1970
“Let It Be” was written by Paul McCartney and credited to Lennon/McCartney. It was initially inspired by a dream McCartney had of his mother, Mary, who passed away in 1956. As such, it’s a soothing song put together in a way that makes it fitting for a funeral.
“Yesterday” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1965
Another song dealing with a change in life circumstance, “Yesterday,” would fit during any moment of a funeral. Released on the “Help!” album, Yesterday became a classic song.
It was the first ballad to top the US charts and has since become an iconic part of popular music. This melancholy tune deals with heartbreak and loss, and though the lyrics are touching, even the instrumental version is sufficient to express what we’re feeling in difficult moments.
“The Long and Winding Road” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1970
This song’s title alone suggests finality and an ending to a chapter in life. It was the last song recorded by the band for “Let It Be.” It’s a reflection of uncertainty and the struggles of life.
“The Long and Winding Road” is widely regarded as one of the most emotionally charged songs in the Beatles’ catalog. Nevertheless, the song has been a source of inspiration for many, and its message of hope and perseverance continues to resonate.
“She’s Leaving Home” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1967
There are many ways “She’s Leaving Home” could be taken, especially if this song is a favorite for someone who has passed away. The song tells the story of a young woman leaving home to pursue her own life.
The song was written by Paul McCartney and was inspired by a newspaper article about a teenage girl who ran away from home. Still, this tune could easily be an allegory for a woman heading “home” after a long illness or sudden death.
“In My Life” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1965
Released in 1965 on the album “Rubber Soul,” the song reflects the past and present and is considered one of the most personal songs John Lennon ever wrote. The song is often seen as a reflection of Lennon’s life, with references to people, places, and events from his childhood. This is the type of song easily played at a funeral.
“Free as a Bird” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1995
“Free as a Bird” was written by John Lennon in 1977. However, Lennon was tragically shot three years later. The remaining band members released a studio version of the song as a part of The Beatles Anthology documentary and album trilogy in 1995.
The lyrics speak of loss and shared history with someone. The eerie feeling of freedom can also be perceived as something positive, as we can think of a loved one now being free to fly like a bird.
“Hey Jude” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1968
“Hey Jude” can be either a sad song or something that brings positive feelings to the surface. Still, it’s a song not out of place in a funeral setting. The song was written to encourage Julian Lennon, John Lennon’s son, during his parents’ divorce. Notably, it was the longest single that The Beatles had ever released, clocking in at over seven minutes.
“Blackbird” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1968
Another Paul McCartney standard – especially if you have been to any of his concerts in the past 20 years – “Blackbird” is a simple tune about a bird with a broken wing. However, the bird’s story is the perfect allegory for a funeral situation. The lyrics continuously bring up the bird learning to fly once again, which is ideal for someone who has passed to that next level of living.
“Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1969
“Here Comes the Sun” is one of George Harrison’s most memorable songs for the band. Released with Abbey Road, this tune puts a positive spin on life and would do well in a funeral setting. While death is final, life after death goes on for the loved ones. This song is a reminder that the sun always rises – even during dark times.
“I’ll Follow the Sun” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1964
An early hit for the Liverpool band in 1964, “I’ll Follow the Sun” is a more optimistic song. Written by Paul McCartney, it is one of the earliest compositions he wrote for the band. The upbeat tempo of the song, combined with its catchy chorus, has made it a favorite among Beatles fans.
The lyrics allude to a sense of optimism and remind us that no matter what life throws, we can always find light in the darkness and keep moving forward.
“Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1969
“Golden Slumbers/Carry That Weight” was featured on the iconic album Abbey Road with the composition by McCartney and Lennon. A traditional English lullaby of the same name inspired the lyrics. Some might consider a funeral the ultimate slumber, so a song like this and its sing-songy composition may be a fitting choice.
“Long Long Long” by The Beatles
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9vUCdfwlgw
Song Year: 1968
George Harrison’s strong spiritual influence on the group helped produce this hit from “The White Album.” The song is a slow, meditative acoustic number that expresses Harrison’s faith in God. The song is noted for its extended instrumental coda, which consists of an electric guitar solo and a single, echoing vocal harmony.
“Don’t Let Me Down” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1968
“Don’t Let Me Down” is a powerful and meaningful song that can significantly impact a funeral. It is a tribute to life and love. The lyrics speak of support when one is struggling and can be interpreted to reflect the support of those mourning the deceased. The song also speaks of hope and comfort, which can provide comfort for those left behind.
“While My Guitar Gently Weeps” by The Beatles
Song Year:
George Harrison has another winning song here, and it’s perfect for a loved one who enjoyed hard rock hits such as this. Harrison wanted to express his feelings about the world’s suffering through song and nailed it here.
The song was recorded with the help of Eric Clapton, who added his distinctive guitar solo and soon became a classic. It remains one of The Beatles’ most beloved songs.
“A Day in the Life” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1967
“A Day in the Life” is fitting for a funeral because of the lyrics. The song depicts a day of emotions and memories, from laughter to sorrow and everything in between.
The music inspires hope and purpose, reminding us that life is precious and should be enjoyed. It’s a beautiful reminder to cherish the life of the person who has passed and to celebrate the memories they have left behind.
“Something” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1969
While a noted powerful love song, “Something” is a meaningful choice to include in a funeral service. The song’s simple yet poignant lyrics express a deep love and appreciation for someone special. The chorus, in particular, captures a feeling of loss and longing.
This song can provide comfort to those mourning the passing of a loved one and help to create a meaningful and heartfelt service.
“Girl” by The Beatles
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8l3ntDR_lI
Song Year: 1965
Using this iconic song at a funeral could be a unique and touching way to honor a loved one. The song’s lyrics about the innocence of love and the beauty of nature can be a reminder of the beauty and joy in life. The haunting melody and beautiful lyrics could also provide comfort to those who are grieving.
“Photograph” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1973
A photograph is already a snapshot of pleasant and beautiful memories, and what a fantastic song choice it can be for a funeral. Ringo Starr’s “Photograph” speaks of cherishing memories of a loved one, and its gentle, acoustic guitar melody and lyrics offer a comforting reminder that the person will never be forgotten.
“Eleanor Rigby” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1966
While a darker choice among The Beatles’ more hopeful tunes, “Eleanor Rigby” is hard to ignore on this list. The song’s title character is lonely and isolated, but her story is one of hope, as the town’s people remember her. The song is a poignant reminder that we are never alone and that those who have passed are retained, even if it’s just by name.
“Julia” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1968
“Julia” is a beautiful, sad piece that can be used as a tribute. The poetic lyrics speak of a loss that is both heartbreaking and inevitable. In addition, the song features a gentle guitar rhythm that creates a peaceful atmosphere that can help people to mourn and honor the deceased.
“Ob-La-Di Ob-La-Da” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1968
It might be strange to consider this exceptionally upbeat hit at a funeral, but hear us out. This lighthearted tune is a great way to pay tribute to a loved one while also providing a moment of joy and fun. The lyrics of the song are uplifting and remind us that life goes on even after the passing of a loved one.
“I Saw Her Standing There” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1963
Another classic rock love song, “I Saw Her Standing There,” is perfect for a loving tribute and goodbye. The song’s lyrics can be interpreted in a way that reflects on the deceased’s life, and the melody can be uplifting and inspiring during a time of mourning.
In addition, the song is sure to bring a smile to the faces of those in attendance and can be a great way to commemorate the life of the honored person.
“With a Little Help From My Friends” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1967
This song is fitting for a funeral if it’s mainly about the shared friendship between mourners and the deceased. It speaks of friendship and companionship and how they will never be alone even though someone may have passed away. The lyrics provide healing to those who have lost a particular person and can be a powerful way to celebrate their life.
“I’ve Got a Feeling” by The Beatles
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTZ804WxpGg
Song Year: 1970
A moving and impactful addition to any funeral can be “I’ve Got a Feeling.” The song’s lyrics encourage us to enjoy life and treasure our time together. The song is upbeat, reminding us that life is a precious gift and that our loved ones are never truly gone as long as we keep them in our hearts.
“Dear Prudence” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1968
“Dear Prudence” may offer consolation when saying goodbye to a loved one by encouraging listening to one’s inner strength and peace. The song’s serene and uplifting composition sets the ideal mood for a funeral with its understated yet effective arrangement. It serves as a reminder that even in trying circumstances, we can all find joy and love within.
“All Things Must Pass” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1970
During a trying time, George Harrison’s “All Things Must Pass” can serve as a reminder that everything has to come to an end. In addition, the song urges us to take advantage of the time we have left.
Those who are grieving can find solace and hope in the song’s uplifting melody and positive message. Although death will come to all of us, it serves as a reminder that life is still valuable and deserving of being cherished.
“Across the Universe” by The Beatles
Song Year: 1969
Known for its dreamy, poetic lyrics, which explore themes of love and peace, Across the Universe is the kind of song that can create a peaceful atmosphere. The song was inspired by John Lennon’s meditation practice and painted a colorful picture that would send anyone off on a high note. So if you need a message of positivity, this is the song you need.
Best Beatles Funeral Songs, Final Thoughts
Though they’ve written many upbeat pop hits, The Beatles have also produced a plethora of gentle and loving songs ideal for saying goodbye to our loved ones at a funeral. We hope you’ve found a song on this list that will provide you with comfort and ease the process of saying the final goodbye.