Music has an incredible way of capturing emotions that words alone often can’t express, especially in moments of loss and remembrance. The 1970s gave us countless timeless songs, many of which speak to the complex feelings experienced at funerals, memorials, and celebrations of life. From songs of comfort and reflection to those that celebrate life and love, this era of music offers a meaningful soundtrack for honoring a loved one’s memory. In this post, we’ve gathered 25 songs from the 1970s, each accompanied by the first verse of lyrics and an explanation of why they are well-suited for a funeral.
A printable version of this list is available at the bottom of the page. Click here.
See also:
- Songs from the 1940s suitable for funeral
- Songs from the 1950s suitable for funeral
- Songs from the 1960s suitable for funeral
- Songs from the 1970s suit for funeral (this post)
- Songs from the 1980s suitable for funeral
- Songs from the 1990s suitable for funeral
- Songs from the 2000s suitable for funeral
- Songs from the 2010s suitable for funeral
1. “Bridge Over Troubled Water” – Simon & Garfunkel (1970)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“When you’re weary, feeling small,
When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all.”
Why it’s suitable:
This song offers comfort, with its soothing melody and themes of unconditional support. It reminds mourners that they are not alone during difficult times.
2. “Let It Be” – The Beatles (1970)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“When I find myself in times of trouble, Mother Mary comes to me,
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.”
Why it’s suitable:
“Let It Be” is a gentle, spiritual song that encourages acceptance and peace in the face of loss, making it ideal for a memorial.
3. “Fire and Rain” – James Taylor (1970)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“Just yesterday morning, they let me know you were gone,
Suzanne, the plans they made put an end to you.”
Why it’s suitable:
With its reflective nature on loss and unexpected tragedy, this song expresses the deep pain of losing someone while also sharing hope for healing.
4. “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” – Bob Dylan (1973)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“Mama, take this badge off of me,
I can’t use it anymore.”
Why it’s suitable:
The metaphor of knocking on heaven’s door speaks to the idea of passing on and moving toward peace, making it appropriate for a funeral or celebration of life.
5. “Imagine” – John Lennon (1971)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“Imagine there’s no heaven,
It’s easy if you try.”
Why it’s suitable:
Lennon’s timeless plea for unity and peace offers a hopeful, serene outlook, bringing comfort in moments of grief.
6. “The Long and Winding Road” – The Beatles (1970)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“The long and winding road
That leads to your door.”
Why it’s suitable:
This reflective song symbolizes life’s journey and the longing for home or peace, which resonates well with funeral themes.
7. “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” – Stevie Wonder (1973)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“You are the sunshine of my life,
That’s why I’ll always stay around.”
Why it’s suitable:
This beautiful song celebrates the joy and warmth someone brought into life, making it perfect for a memorial or celebration of life.
8. “Wild World” – Cat Stevens (1970)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“Now that I’ve lost everything to you,
You say you want to start something new.”
Why it’s suitable:
The song’s bittersweet reflection on change and letting go resonates with the feelings of parting that accompany funerals.
9. “I Will Always Love You” – Dolly Parton (1974)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“If I should stay,
I would only be in your way.”
Why it’s suitable:
This heartfelt farewell song expresses the deep emotions of love and letting go, which is ideal for a tribute to a loved one.
10. “Landslide” – Fleetwood Mac (1975)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“I took my love, I took it down
Climbed a mountain and I turned around.”
Why it’s suitable:
“Landslide” reflects on life’s changes and the inevitability of time, making it a poignant choice for a funeral or memorial service.
11. “Time in a Bottle” – Jim Croce (1973)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“If I could save time in a bottle,
The first thing that I’d like to do.”
Why it’s suitable:
This song reflects the desire to hold onto precious moments, making it a moving tribute to a loved one’s memory.
12. “American Pie” – Don McLean (1971)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“A long, long time ago
I can still remember how that music used to make me smile.”
Why it’s suitable:
While known for its complex narrative, “American Pie” is a nostalgic reflection on loss and the end of an era, making it suitable for reflection at a memorial.
13. “If You Leave Me Now” – Chicago (1976)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“If you leave me now,
You’ll take away the biggest part of me.”
Why it’s suitable:
This song speaks to the deep pain of losing someone and the emotional void they leave behind. With its heartfelt plea and tender melody, it’s a poignant tribute for a funeral, reflecting the lasting impact a loved one has on our lives.
14. “We’ve Only Just Begun” – The Carpenters (1970)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“We’ve only just begun to live,
White lace and promises.”
Why it’s suitable:
This soft ballad can remind mourners of the new beginnings even after death and the continuity of life’s journey.
15. “Dust in the Wind” – Kansas (1977)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“I close my eyes, only for a moment, and the moment’s gone.”
Why it’s suitable:
A reminder of the impermanence of life, this song brings a reflective tone to funerals, encouraging contemplation of life’s fragile nature.
16. “I’ll Be There” – The Jackson 5 (1970)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“You and I must make a pact,
We must bring salvation back.”
Why it’s suitable:
This song’s promise of eternal presence and love makes it a comforting choice for a funeral or memorial service.
17. “Always and Forever” – Heatwave (1976)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“Always and forever, each moment with you.”
Why it’s suitable:
A romantic and tender song that can be used to express the enduring nature of love, even after loss.
18. “My Sweet Lord” – George Harrison (1970)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“My sweet Lord,
Mmm, my Lord.”
Why it’s suitable:
With its spiritual tones and peaceful energy, this song can bring comfort to those grieving and inspire thoughts of the afterlife.
19. “I Can See Clearly Now” – Johnny Nash (1972)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“I can see clearly now, the rain is gone,
I can see all obstacles in my way.”
Why it’s suitable:
This uplifting song encourages clarity and hope after the storm of grief has passed, making it a positive choice for a celebration of life.
20. “You’ve Got a Friend” – Carole King (1971)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“When you’re down and troubled
And you need a helping hand.”
Why it’s suitable:
A heartfelt reminder that friendship and love remain strong even after someone is gone, offering solace to the grieving.
21. “Wonderful Tonight” – Eric Clapton (1977)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“It’s late in the evening,
She’s wondering what clothes to wear.”
Why it’s suitable:
This gentle, loving tribute can remind mourners of the beauty in the simple moments of life, creating a touching memory.
22. “How Deep Is Your Love” – Bee Gees (1977)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“I know your eyes in the morning sun,
I feel you touch me in the pouring rain.”
Why it’s suitable:
This tender love song expresses a deep emotional connection, making it a meaningful choice for a funeral or memorial.
23. “Lean on Me” – Bill Withers (1972)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“Sometimes in our lives, we all have pain,
We all have sorrow.”
Why it’s suitable:
Offering comfort and solidarity, “Lean on Me” serves as a reminder that we can lean on others during hard times of grief.
24. “Free Bird” – Lynyrd Skynyrd (1973)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“If I leave here tomorrow,
Would you still remember me?”
Why it’s suitable:
Its themes of freedom, moving on, and remembrance make it a fitting tribute to someone who has passed.
25. “Simple Man” – Lynyrd Skynyrd (1973)
Lyrics (1st Verse):
“Mama told me when I was young,
Come sit beside me, my only son.”
Why it’s suitable:
A timeless reminder to live simply and fully, this song offers guidance and solace for both the living and those remembering the departed.
These songs from the 1970s evoke powerful emotions, offering comfort, reflection, and hope. Each one carries a message that resonates with themes of love, loss, remembrance, and the beauty of life’s journey. Whether you’re honoring a loved one’s memory, seeking peace during a difficult time, or celebrating the life they lived, these timeless tracks help create a meaningful and heartfelt tribute.
Want just the basic list? Here it is:
Songs from the 1970s suitable for a funeral: A summary list.
Grab a printable version from Google Docs: CLICK HERE
- “Bridge Over Troubled Water” – Simon & Garfunkel (1970)
- “Let It Be” – The Beatles (1970)
- “Fire and Rain” – James Taylor (1970)
- “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” – Bob Dylan (1973)
- “Imagine” – John Lennon (1971)
- “The Long and Winding Road” – The Beatles (1970)
- “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” – Stevie Wonder (1973)
- “Wild World” – Cat Stevens (1970)
- “I Will Always Love You” – Dolly Parton (1974)
- “Landslide” – Fleetwood Mac (1975)
- “Time in a Bottle” – Jim Croce (1973)
- “American Pie” – Don McLean (1971)
- “If You Leave Me Now” – Chicago (1976)
- “We’ve Only Just Begun” – The Carpenters (1970)
- “Dust in the Wind” – Kansas (1977)
- “I’ll Be There” – The Jackson 5 (1970)
- “Always and Forever” – Heatwave (1976)
- “My Sweet Lord” – George Harrison (1970)
- “I Can See Clearly Now” – Johnny Nash (1972)
- “You’ve Got a Friend” – Carole King (1971)
- “Wonderful Tonight” – Eric Clapton (1977)
- “How Deep Is Your Love” – Bee Gees (1977)
- “Lean on Me” – Bill Withers (1972)
- “Free Bird” – Lynyrd Skynyrd (1973)
- “Simple Man” – Lynyrd Skynyrd (1973)
