Top 10 Beatles songs for funerals

The Beatles have an extensive discography spanning various themes and emotions, making it possible to find songs suitable for a funeral. Here are ten Beatles songs for funerals with more detailed explanations of their significance and lyrics that could be considered fitting for when you are planning a funeral:

10. Let It Be (1970)

"Let It Be" is a song of comfort and hope in challenging times. It was written by Paul McCartney, inspired by a dream he had of his mother, Mary, who passed away when he was 14. The song's message of solace and acceptance can provide support for grieving loved ones. The line, "And when the night is cloudy, there is still a light that shines on me, shine until tomorrow, let it be," offers an uplifting reminder that even in times of darkness, there is hope and becomes our top choice for Beatles funeral songs.

9. In My Life (1965)

"In My Life" is a reflective song written by John Lennon that pays tribute to the people and places that have left a lasting impact on one's life. Its introspective lyrics evoke feelings of love and gratitude for those who have come and gone, making it a fitting choice for a funeral. The line, "Though I know I'll never lose affection for people and things that went before, I know I'll often stop and think about them, in my life, I love you more," conveys the enduring nature of love and memories.

8. Here Comes the Sun (1969)

"Here Comes the Sun" is a song of optimism and renewal, written by George Harrison after a long, cold winter. While it has a more upbeat melody, the song's message of hope and new beginnings can provide comfort at a funeral, reminding mourners that even after the darkest times, there is light. The lyric, "Little darlin', it's been a long, cold lonely winter, little darlin', it feels like years since it's been here, here comes the sun," captures this sentiment.

7. Blackbird (1968)

"Blackbird" is a good pick for funeral songs by the Beatles, a metaphorical song written by Paul McCartney about finding strength and hope amid adversity. Inspired by the American Civil Rights Movement, the song's lyrics can resonate with those grieving, encouraging them to persevere and find their own inner strength. The line, "Blackbird singing in the dead of night, take these broken wings and learn to fly, all your life, you were only waiting for this moment to arise," suggests the possibility of growth and healing after loss.

6. Across the Universe (1969)

"Across the Universe" is a contemplative song written by John Lennon that evokes a sense of unity and connection. Its introspective lyrics can provide solace to those grieving, reminding them that they are not alone in their loss. The line, "Images of broken light which dance before me like a million eyes, they call me on and on across the universe," captures the idea of interconnectedness and the vastness of existence.

5. Yesterday (1965)

Another Beatles classic fitting for a funeral is "Yesterday", a nostalgic song written by Paul McCartney that expresses longing for times gone by. Its melancholic tone and theme of loss can resonate with those mourning a loved one, evoking memories of happier times. The lyric, "Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away, now it looks as though they're here to stay, oh, I believe in yesterday," conveys the desire to return to a simpler, happier time. 

Beatles has a strong connection with Croyden with several performances here and their songs could be part of the funeral service. Ask your funeral director in Croyden for help choosing the right song, it could be Yesterday.  

4. Golden Slumbers (1969)

"Golden Slumbers" is a lullaby-like song based on a 17th-century poem by Thomas Dekker. With its soothing melody and lyrics, it can be interpreted as a farewell, making it a fitting choice for a funeral. The line, "Once there was a way to get back homeward, once there was a way to get back home, sleep pretty darling, do not cry, and I will sing a lullaby," offers a sense of comfort and reassurance, suggesting that the deceased is now at peace and free from pain.

3. The Long and Winding Road (1970)

"The Long and Winding Road" is a reflective song written by Paul McCartney about the journey of life and the memories created along the way. Its introspective lyrics and poignant melody make it suitable for a funeral or cremation, as it evokes feelings of longing and nostalgia. The line, "The long and winding road that leads to your door will never disappear, I've seen that road before, it always leads me here, leads me to your door," illustrates the idea that no matter how much time passes or how many twists and turns life takes, we remain connected to the ones we love and it's a good choice for Beatles funeral songs.

2. Eleanor Rigby (1966)

"Eleanor Rigby" is a poignant song written by Paul McCartney that tells the story of a lonely woman and a priest, both seeking connection and meaning in their lives. Its sombre tone and theme of isolation can resonate with those attending a funeral, reminding them of the importance of love and companionship. The lyric, "Ah, look at all the lonely people, where do they all come from? All the lonely people, where do they all belong?" emphasises the human need for connection and the pain that can come from its absence.

1. While My Guitar Gently Weeps (1968)

"While My Guitar Gently Weeps" is an introspective song written by George Harrison that explores themes of love, empathy, and the passage of time. Its reflective lyrics and emotional melody make it a fitting choice for a funeral, as it can evoke feelings of both sorrow and hope. The line, "I look at the world, and I notice it's turning, while my guitar gently weeps, with every mistake we must surely be learning, still my guitar gently weeps," suggests that even in the face of loss and pain, there are lessons to be learned and growth to be experienced.