Music is the heartbeat of any ceremony. Whether it’s a wedding overflowing with joy, a funeral filled with reflection and love, or any milestone moment in between, the right song speaks directly to the soul. As an independent celebrant, Shelley Bell Celebrant knows just how transformative music can be—it grounds us, moves us, and helps us express what words sometimes cannot.
In this blog, we explore the top 10 most common wedding songs, top 10 most common funeral songs, and why music plays such a powerful role in every ceremony.
Top 10 Most Popular Wedding Songs
Choosing the perfect wedding music is one of the most enjoyable parts of planning your ceremony. These songs continue to top playlists for couples saying “I do,” thanks to their timeless romance, emotional sincerity, and cinematic beauty.
1. “A Thousand Years” – Christina Perri
A modern classic for aisle walks and first dances.
2. “At Last” – Etta James
Elegant, romantic, and full of soul.
3. “Perfect” – Ed Sheeran
A favourite for couples who want a deeply personal love story expressed in song.
4. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Elvis Presley (or Kina Grannis version)
A tender, timeless choice for processions.
5. “All of Me” – John Legend
Intimate lyrics celebrating real, imperfect love.
6. “Marry You” – Bruno Mars
Fun, upbeat and brilliant for recessions or celebrations.
7. “You Are the Best Thing” – Ray LaMontagne
A warm, joyful track—ideal for signing or exit music.
8. “How Long Will I Love You” – Ellie Goulding
Soft, simple and emotional.
9. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World” – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
Gentle, hopeful, and beautifully atmospheric.
10. “Your Song” – Elton John
A heartfelt, iconic British classic.
Top 10 Most Popular Funeral Songs
Funeral music holds immense emotional significance. It helps families honour a life, express grief, and find comfort. These songs remain among the most requested for their beauty, their messages, and their ability to connect people in moments of remembrance.
1. “Time to Say Goodbye” – Andrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman
Majestic, powerful, and deeply moving.
2. “My Way” – Frank Sinatra
For people who lived life boldly and authentically.
3. “Wind Beneath My Wings” – Bette Midler
An emotional tribute to love and gratitude.
4. “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
Peaceful and uplifting—a celebration of hope.
5. “You Raise Me Up” – Josh Groban
A reminder of strength, support and resilience.
6. “Supermarket Flowers” – Ed Sheeran
A heartfelt choice, especially for younger lives or close family tributes.
7. “Angels” – Robbie Williams
One of the UK’s most requested funeral songs.
8. “What a Wonderful World” – Louis Armstrong
A beautiful celebration of a life well-lived.
9. “Forever Young” – Bob Dylan or Youth Group
A blessing, a memory, and a promise.
10. “Ave Maria” – Various Artists
Classical and spiritual, often chosen for its serenity.
Why Music Is Essential in Every Ceremony
1. Music Creates Emotion
When words fall short, music fills the space between. It elevates joyful moments, comforts in sorrow, and guides people on emotional journeys during weddings, funerals, namings, and milestone ceremonies.
2. It Sets the Tone
The first notes a guest hears instantly shape the atmosphere. Whether elegant, fun, reflective or celebratory, music is the emotional narrator of the day.
3. It Personalises the Experience
As an independent celebrant, Shelley Bell Celebrant helps families and couples craft ceremonies that feel authentically theirs. Music is one of the most powerful ways to do this—every song choice tells a story.
4. It Brings People Together
Music creates unity. A shared melody connects people, whether they’re singing along to a joyous wedding exit or quietly absorbing a reflective funeral hymn.
5. It Helps Us Remember
Long after a ceremony ends, the music stays with us. A single song can transport someone back to vows exchanged, a loved one honoured, or a life milestone marked.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a wedding full of celebration or a funeral filled with love and remembrance, music matters. It shapes the emotional arc of the day, honours your story, and helps express what the heart feels most deeply.
With the support of an independent celebrant like Shelley Bell Celebrant, your ceremony can be crafted with meaningful musical moments that reflect your values, your memories and your vision.
If you’d like help choosing music for your upcoming ceremony or want support designing a bespoke, heartfelt service, Shelley is here to guide you every step of the way.
Picture courtesy of Pexels
written in conjunction with ChatGPT
