When planning a funeral or wake for someone who cherished their Irish heritage, music can truly play a part in bringing people together to remember the person who has passed. Choosing the right music helps create a moment of connection and farewell, blending the shared memories of the departed.
Whether you’re from Ireland or simply drawn to the beauty of Irish funeral songs, this curated list of 30 best songs will help you find a way to say goodbye with meaning and heart.
Finding the Right Irish Farewell Songs
If your mind feels blank or you already have ideas in mind, exploring Irish farewell songs can open new possibilities. These melodies often reflect a loved one’s personality and bring comfort as they’ve likely been listened to themselves.
Each tune is worth looking into, offering a window into themes of loss, love, and cherished memories. By finding the perfect Irish music, you ensure a heartfelt farewell that allows those gathered to reflect on the life shared and the bonds unbroken.
Irish Funeral Songs Overview
Irish funeral songs hold a special place in honoring the memory of a loved one. Each tune carries a unique blend of tradition and emotion, reflecting the deep cultural roots of Ireland.
The 30 Songs
1.Danny Boy
2.The Parting Glass
3. Mná na hÉireann
4.The Fields Of Athenry
5.She Moved Through The Fair
6.Carrickfergus
7.Down by the Salley Gardens
8.Isle of Innisfree
9.The Lark in the Clear Air
10.Be Thou My Vision (Traditional hymn)
11.The Last Rose of Summer
12. Grace
13.The Mountains of Mourne
14.The Rare Old Times
15.The Band Played Waltzing Matilda
16. My Laglan Love
17. Ragland Road
18. The Green Fields of France
19. Black Velvet Band
20. Baidin Fheilimi
21.Rocky Road to Dublin by The Dubliners
22.Galway Girl” by Steve Earle (or by Sharon Shannon)
23.Whiskey in the Jar by The Dubliners
24.A Million Miles Away by Rory Gallagher
25.”Dancing in the Moonlight (It’s Caught Me in Its Spotlight) by Thin Lizzy
26.May It Be by Enya
27.Linger by The Cranberries
28.Nothing Compares To You by Sinead O Connor
29.Ellis Island by Mary Black
30.Red Is The Rose The High Kings
What Makes an Irish Funeral Song Special?
Irish funeral songs have a way of connecting with the heart through their blend of melancholy and beauty, making them a perfect choice for funerals, wakes, or memorial services. Whether it’s a traditional tune or a heartfelt ballad, these songs set a fitting backdrop for mourning and reflection, offering comfort to the bereaved.
Their themes of loss, longing, and resilience evoke powerful emotions, helping families navigate the grieving process. The communal nature of Irish music brings people together, encouraging participation through singing or listening, and fostering a sense of solidarity and shared experience among mourners.
Rooted in rich heritage and spirituality, many Irish hymns and Celtic tunes carry meaningful messages of faith, love, and remembrance. These songs, often tied to Catholic traditions, offer a profound respect for the deceased while honoring their life and legacy.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Irish Farewell Song
Selecting an Irish farewell song is a deeply personal decision that should reflect the significance of the departed life. A fitting song is often one that was a favorite of the deceased or a tune that resonates with their story and captures their unique personality and spirit.
Personal Significance
These songs not only honor the memory of the deceased but also create a comforting space for loved ones to connect and grieve. By identifying a song that holds personal significance, you pay tribute to their life and the bond shared with those gathered.
Whether it’s a melody that sparks joy, reflection, or peace, the right song becomes a vessel for expressing the profound love and respect felt by family and friends.
Importance of Lyrical Content
The lyrics of an Irish farewell song should be considered carefully, as they carry the weight of the emotions and messages you wish to convey during the service.
These songs often explore themes of love, loss, hope, and remembrance, offering a way to connect with the departed while comforting the grieving.
Choosing a song with appropriate words for the occasion helps reflect the sentiments you want to express, creating a meaningful tribute that honors the life being celebrated.
Musical Style and Mood
Irish music offers a wide range of styles, from traditional tunes to contemporary ballads, making it adaptable to any funeral service.
The mood of the chosen song should match the tone you want to organize, whether it’s a somber and reflective tune for a more traditional service or a lively, celebratory melody for a wake or memorial.
These songs can serve as a powerful way to focus on celebrating life while creating a meaningful atmosphere for the occasion.
Cultural and Religious Considerations
When planning a funeral service that includes religious elements, it’s important to choose a song that aligns with the spiritual beliefs and practices of the deceased and their family. Traditional Irish hymns and sacred songs can be a beautiful addition, as they add a layer of cultural and religious reverence to the service.
These melodies carry deep emotional and spiritual significance, making them a perfect farewell choice for honoring a loved one. This thoughtful selection highlights the enduring respect for the departed and provides comfort to grieving families.
Choosing the Right Irish Funeral Songs
When deciding on Irish funeral songs for your loved one’s farewell, it’s essential to consider the tone and atmosphere you want to create. The right choice depends on the wake or funeral you are planning.
Irish music comes in many versions and tempos, ranging from upbeat and rowdy tunes that celebrate life to softer and more haunting melodies that evoke deep reflection. Each song carries a unique emotion, making it easier to find one that resonates with the life and legacy of the person being honored.
With such a wide range of Irish funeral songs, you can honor your loved one in a way that feels personal and true to their memory.
Upbeat Irish Funeral Songs
If you’re looking for upbeat Irish funeral songs that celebrate life and bring a sense of energy to a funeral, these lively tunes are a great choice. Irish music has a unique ability to uplift and connect, especially when performed by talented Irish artists like The Dubliners, The Wolftones, Thin Lizzy, or Rory Gallagher.
Their songs can provide a comforting mix of joy and remembrance, creating a heartfelt yet vibrant atmosphere for the occasion.
5 Examples of Upbeat Irish Songs
- Rocky Road to Dublin – Performed by The Dubliners, this lively and upbeat Irish funeral song is perfect to use for celebrating a loved one’s life.
- Galway Girl – A classic tune by Steve Earle or Sharon Shannon that brings joy and energy to a funeral gathering.
- Whiskey in the Jar – Another favorite from The Dubliners, this song’s spirited melody makes it an ideal choice for a meaningful yet uplifting tribute.
- A Million Miles Away – A soulful yet vibrant piece by Rory Gallagher, fitting for a heartfelt farewell.
- Dancing in the Moonlight (It’s Caught Me in Its Spotlight) – By Thin Lizzy, this iconic and celebratory track adds warmth to any memorial occasion.
Sad Irish Funeral Songs
For those moments of deep reflection and remembrance, sad Irish funeral songs can create a meaningful and emotional atmosphere. These softer melodies often evoke sadness while offering comfort through their heartfelt music.
Performed by renowned Irish artists like Enya, Sinead O Connor, and Dolores O Riordian from The Cranberries, these songs provide a deeply melancholic feel that resonates with mourners.
5 Examples of Sad Irish Songs
Here are five sad Irish funeral songs that beautifully capture the emotions of loss and remembrance. These songs can use tender melodies and heartfelt lyrics to offer comfort during a funeral service:
- May It Be – By Enya, this serene and reflective piece is perfect for creating a peaceful atmosphere.
- Linger – From The Cranberries, this song’s poignant tone and evocative lyrics resonate deeply with mourners.
- Nothing Compares To You – Sung by Sinead O Connor, this emotional classic expresses longing and grief with timeless beauty.
- Ellis Island – A touching ballad by Mary Black that captures themes of nostalgia and farewell.
- Red Is The Rose – Performed by The High Kings, this traditional tune offers a soothing way to honor the memory of a loved one.
These selections blend sorrow and solace, making them fitting choices to pay tribute to the departed.
Traditional Irish Funeral Songs
Traditional Irish funeral songs carry a deep sense of history and emotion, offering timeless melodies that honor both the departed and the rich heritage of Ireland. These songs, often rooted in Irish culture, evoke themes of love, loss, and reflection, making them a meaningful addition to a funeral service.
Tunes like Be Thou My Vision create a peaceful and reverent atmosphere, allowing mourners to reflect on the life of their loved one.
5 Examples of Traditional Irish Funeral Songs
- Mná na hÉireann – A haunting and timeless melody that honors the strength and beauty of Irish women.
- She Moved Through The Fair – This reflective tune captures themes of love and loss, perfect for creating a serene atmosphere.
- Down by the Salley Gardens – A gentle and melancholic song that evokes emotions of nostalgia and remembrance.
- Baidin Fheilimi – A lively traditional song, offering a connection to Ireland’s folk heritage.
- Be Thou My Vision (Traditional hymn) – A deeply spiritual piece that brings comfort through its heartfelt lyrics and uplifting melody.
15 Examples of Funeral Songs to Play at a Funeral
We’ve included 12 well-known Irish funeral songs below that you can play during your loved one’s wake, funeral, or memorial service. These songs beautifully capture themes of love, grief, and resiliency, rooted in Irish history.
From lively tunes to eerie and reflective melodies, this selection offers a way to honor the memory of the departed while creating a meaningful atmosphere for all who gather.
1- “Danny Boy”
Danny Boy is an Irish song written by the English songwriter Frederic Weatherly in 1913, with its melody originating from the Londonderry Air. Known for its melancholic and poignant lyrics, the song beautifully expresses themes of love, longing, and farewell.
Its emotional depth and timeless appeal make it an iconic and beloved choice for funerals, wakes, and memorial services. The reflective tone resonates deeply with mourners, allowing them to connect with the sentiments of loss and remembrance.
As a popular funeral song, Danny Boy carries a unique blend of nostalgia and reflection, offering a perfect farewell for honoring the departed. Whether played at a quiet funeral service or during a communal wake, its ability to evoke heartfelt emotions makes it a centerpiece in celebrating the life of a loved one.
2- “The Parting Glass”
The Parting Glass is a cherished Irish song that has long been a popular farewell choice for funerals and other gatherings. Its heartfelt lyrics capture the essence of bidding farewell and parting ways, filled with sentiments of longing, hope, and the inevitability of passing time.
The song reflects on themes of separation, distance, and even death, making it a deeply meaningful tribute during moments of loss. With its bittersweet tone, it evokes both sadness and nostalgia, inviting listeners to reflect on shared memories, cherished experiences, and the enduring connection to their loved ones.
This folk song resonates deeply with its universal emotions, as it honors the farewell while embracing the hope of a meeting someday. Whether played during an intimate funeral service or a larger event, it brings a sense of togetherness and solace to those gathered.
3- “The Fields of Athenry”
The Fields of Athenry is a deeply moving Irish song that tells the story of Michael, a man facing hardship and exile during the Great Irish Famine. Set against the backdrop of Athenry, a small town in County Galway, Ireland, the song reflects the struggles and suffering of the Irish people during this devastating period in history.
Its lyrics resonate with themes of sadness, longing, and resilience, making it a powerful choice for funerals and wakes.
This song’s ability to stir feelings of patriotism and grief connects mourners as they reflect on loss and the enduring spirit of the departed. Often sung loudly and proudly, it brings people together in a heartfelt sing-song during a wake or memorial.
Its poignant tribute to the past offers solace to those gathered, providing a meaningful way to bid farewell to a loved one while honoring their life and legacy.
4- “Isle of Innisfree”
Isle of Innisfree is a beautiful Irish song inspired by a poem written by William Butler Yeats, evoking a deep yearning for peace, tranquility, and a return to nature. The narrator longs to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and retreat to an idyllic island where the worries and cares of the world disappear.
Its lyrics paint a picture of a serene and quiet place, offering a moment of reflection and solace to those mourning the loss of a loved one. The gentle melody and peaceful atmosphere of this song create a contemplative space during a funeral service, allowing mourners to reflect on the beauty of life’s journey and its ultimate passage to rest.
With themes of longing and comfort, Isle of Innisfree is a fitting choice to bid farewell to a loved one, bringing calm and solace to all gathered.
5- “The Lark in the Clear Air”
The Lark in the Clear Air is a delicate Irish song that captures the themes of love, beauty, and the wonders of nature. Its lyrics paint a serene image of a lark singing joyfully in the clear, open sky, evoking a sense of peace and admiration for life.
The ethereal melody is both uplifting and gentle, making it a perfect choice for creating a contemplative atmosphere during a funeral service. This song allows mourners to reflect on the life of the departed and find solace in its tender tones.
It’s an ideal way to pay tribute to the deceased, celebrating their legacy while fostering a sense of connection and admiration. With its timeless elegance, The Lark in the Clear Air truly embodies the spirit of a meaningful funeral song.
6- “The Last Rose of Summer”
The Last Rose of Summer is a classic Irish song that beautifully reflects on the passing of time and the inevitability of change in the circle of life. Using the metaphor of a single rose blooming in the late summer, the song evokes feelings of nostalgia and deep reflection.
Its lyrics are filled with a quiet melancholy, as the narrator contemplates the fleeting nature of life, the loss of the loved ones, and the delicate balance between joy and sorrow. The imagery of a fading rose serves as a poignant symbol of mortality and the impermanence of life, reminding us to treasure every moment.
A popular funeral song, it’s often chosen for funerals and wakes, as it touches on profound aspects of life and death. Its timeless message resonates deeply with mourners, offering a way to honor the departed while cherishing the shared memories.
7- “Grace”
Grace is a deeply sad Irish song that tells the story of Grace Gifford and Joseph Plunkett, who were married in Kilmainham Gaol just hours before his execution for his role in the 1916 Easter Rising in Ireland. The song beautifully explores themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity, making it both moving and poignant.
Its historical and political context adds depth, though it might feel unconventional for a funeral; however, for families with strong Irish heritage, it is an ideal choice for a wake or memorial. The lyrics of Grace touch on profound emotions of loss and death, reflecting the enduring strength of love even in the darkest times.
Its ability to blend a tragic story with a beautiful melody makes it a fitting way to honor the deceased while offering comfort to their family. This song resonates with those looking to pay tribute to the legacy and sacrifices of their loved ones in a deeply personal and meaningful way.
8- “The Mountains of Mourne”
The Mountains of Mourne is a beloved traditional Irish song that tells the story of a man who reflects on his longing for the beauty of the Mourne Mountains in County Down, Northern Ireland.
The lyrics, written from the perspective of an Irish emigrant who has left Ireland seeking better opportunities, capture the emotional toll of economic hardship and the yearning for home.
As the narrator reminisces about the lush greenery, flowing rivers, and picturesque landscapes of the Mournes, the song evokes a sense of nostalgia and deep connection to nature.
Its heartfelt melody and vivid imagery make it a moving tribute for a funeral, providing a space for mourners to reflect on the enduring bond between people and the places they love.
9- “The Rare Old Times”
The Rare Old Times by The Dubliners is a song rich in emotional resonance and nostalgic reflection, making it a popular choice for funerals. It speaks of Dublin’s past, capturing the changes in the city and the longing for simpler, happier days.
The song’s poignant melody and heartfelt lyrics create a reflective atmosphere that offers comfort to mourners while honoring the life of the deceased. The enduring connections made through shared memories make this a perfect Irish farewell song.
Its ability to evoke solace and a sense of community through its sing-song nature makes it a fitting addition to any wake or memorial service. Whether sung with a group or played during a quiet moment, The Rare Old Times resonates deeply, making it a meaningful way to celebrate the life of the departed.
10- “The Band Played Waltzing Matilda”
The Band Played Waltzing Matilda by The Pogues is a powerful Irish farewell song that captures the emotional depth and human cost of war. This song reflects on the devastating impact of conflict on individuals, families, and communities, making it deeply moving for funerals.
Its narrative touches on sacrifice, the futility of war, and the lasting scars left behind. The haunting melody and heartfelt delivery create a somber and reflective atmosphere, inviting mourners to reflect on the loss of their loved ones.
Often chosen for veterans’ funerals or for those with military service, this song’s powerful lyrics and emotional impact resonate strongly with anyone reflecting on the cost of war. It serves as a meaningful way to honor the memory of the departed while fostering a sense of remembrance and shared grief.
11- “My Lagan Love”
My Lagan Love is a traditional Irish folk song that tells the tale of unrequited love along the River Lagan in Ireland. The lyrics express the narrator’s longing and deep devotion to their beloved, using natural imagery like flowers, birds, and the river itself to convey the deep connection felt.
The haunting melody and evocative lyrics create a somber and reflective atmosphere, offering comfort and solace to mourners during a time of grief.
The contemporary version of this song by Hozier has added new layers to its emotional depth, making it an ideal farewell song for funerals and wakes. It speaks to the enduring power of love and loss, creating a space for reflection and remembrance as loved ones gather to say goodbye.
12- “Raglan Road”
Raglan Road is a beautiful and poignant Irish song, famously sung by Luke Kelly of The Dubliners. The lyrics, adapted from the poem Dark Rosaleen by Patrick Kavanagh, are filled with vivid imagery and symbolism, capturing the deep longing and despair of unrequited love.
The song paints a picture of autumn leaves, wild birds, and moonlight, creating a melancholic tone that evokes both mourning and the pain of loss. This traditional song with its rich Irish roots is a powerful farewell choice for funerals, as its themes of unrequited love and loss resonate deeply with those who grieve.
The narrator’s reflections on love and longing offer a space for mourners to connect with the heritage of the departed while honoring their life and legacy.
13- “The Green Fields of France”
The Green Fields of France is a powerful song that evokes remembrance and reflection on the lives lost in conflict and hardship. Its heartfelt lyrics and haunting melody create a solemn and contemplative atmosphere that encourages mourners to pay respects while contemplating the lasting impact of war on individuals and communities.
The song’s deep themes of farewell resonate with anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one, particularly those who have given their lives in service. This song stands out as a poignant tribute, honoring the memory of the departed while highlighting the emotional weight of their sacrifice.
It invites mourners to reflect on the profound cost of conflict, making it a fitting choice for those seeking to acknowledge the sacrifices of individuals who have been affected by war and its consequences.
14- “Black Velvet Band”
Black Velvet Band is an upbeat Irish song that tells the story of a man who is deceived by a woman, leading to his imprisonment and transportation to Australia for a crime he didn’t commit.
Despite its lively melody and catchy chorus, the song touches on deep themes of betrayal, injustice, and longing for freedom. While it may seem an unconventional choice for funerals, its ability to resonate with mourners makes it a fitting farewell song in certain contexts.
The traditional folk tune captures the feeling of hardship and loss, making it an emotional piece for those who seek a song that reflects both the joy and sorrow in life.
Its themes of betrayal and freedom connect with anyone who has experienced deep personal challenges, making it a powerful way to honor the memory of a loved one who fought for justice or struggled for their freedom.
15- “Carrickfergus”
Carrickfergus is a deeply emotional Irish song that originated in the town of Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland. The lyrics tell the story of a narrator who reflects on longing for a lost love and the memories tied to the landmarks of the town, such as the castle and the sea.
The song evokes nostalgia and a deep sense of missing a happy past. As the narrator reflects on their experiences, they also face the pain of knowing they can never return to those moments, symbolizing the impossibility of recapturing what is lost.
It serves as a poignant tribute to the departed, offering a way to honor their memory while acknowledging the acceptance that they will never see them again. This song’s emotional depth makes it a fitting choice for moments of remembrance and farewell.
FAQs
What is a beautiful Irish song for a funeral?
Danny Boy is a beautiful and emotional Irish song often chosen for funerals. Its heartfelt lyrics and melody make it a timeless choice for saying goodbye.
What is the most played song at a funeral?
Amazing Grace is one of the most played songs at funerals worldwide, known for its emotional depth and comfort during times of grief.
What is the farewell song for the Irish?
The Parting Glass is a popular Irish farewell song, capturing the bittersweet emotions of saying goodbye while celebrating the life of the departed.
What is the saddest Irish song?
The Fields of Athenry is often considered one of the saddest Irish songs, reflecting the deep loss and hardship faced during the Irish Famine.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Irish funeral songs for your loved one’s farewell is an important part of honoring their memory. Whether you select traditional ballads, melancholic tunes, or uplifting melodies, these songs carry deep emotional resonance that help mourners reflect on the life and legacy of the departed. Songs like Danny Boy, The Parting Glass, and The Fields of Athenry capture themes of love, loss, and resilience, offering comfort during moments of grief. By incorporating Irish music into the service, you not only connect to a rich cultural heritage but also provide a meaningful and memorable farewell that brings together family and friends.
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