21 Worst Songs to Play at a Funeral: Funeral No-Go

Hey there, music lovers and fellow DJs! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, and today I’m diving into a topic that’s a bit offbeat but oh-so-important: the 21 worst songs to play at a funeral.

Now, you might be wondering, “TBone, why are we talking about funeral music on a DJ’s blog?” Well, let me tell you, it’s all about context.

As a DJ and a passionate music enthusiast, I’ve realized that while music can uplift, entertain, and comfort, it can also be wildly inappropriate if not chosen carefully – especially for occasions as sensitive as funerals.

So, I decided to put together this list not only to give you a chuckle but also to offer a friendly reminder about the power of music and the importance of choosing the right tracks for every occasion.

Let’s dive in and explore these musical missteps, ensuring our playlists are always respectful and fitting, no matter the event!

Here are the worst songs to play at a funeral that you can check out:

List Of Worst Songs to Play at a Funeral

Worst songs to play at a funeral in a list format:

1. “Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees

From the album “Saturday Night Fever,” released in 1977 under RSO Records, “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees is an iconic disco track. The song, known for its upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm, became synonymous with the disco era. However, its title and lyrics can be deemed highly inappropriate for a funeral setting. The song’s lively nature and references to staying alive could be seen as insensitive in a situation where mourning the loss of life is central.

2. “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen

Released in 1980 under EMI Records and featured on Queen’s album “The Game,” “Another One Bites the Dust” is a song with a catchy bass line and a funky groove. However, the song’s title and chorus, which repeats the phrase “another one bites the dust,” can come across as callous or disrespectful when played at a funeral, given its connotation of death and loss.

3. “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC

AC/DC’s “Highway to Hell” from their 1979 album of the same name (released under Albert/Atlantic Records) is a hard rock anthem known for its rebellious spirit. While it’s a classic rock staple, the song’s title and lyrics, which speak about a carefree journey to hell, make it a poor choice for a funeral. It could be perceived as insensitive or even offensive to religious attendees.

4. “Ding Dong! The Witch is Dead” from The Wizard of Oz

This song, originally part of the 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz” soundtrack, was released under MGM Records. Although it’s a playful and whimsical song in the context of the movie, playing it at a funeral could be interpreted as celebrating the death of the person, which is disrespectful and hurtful to grieving family and friends.

5. “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor

Released in 1978 under Polydor Records, “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor, from her album “Love Tracks,” is a powerful anthem of resilience and overcoming adversity. However, its themes of survival and moving past a breakup can seem out of place at a funeral, where the focus is on mourning and remembrance.

6. “Burn Baby Burn” by Disco Inferno

This 1976 hit from The Trammps, featured on their album “Disco Inferno” under Atlantic Records, is known for its catchy disco beat. The song’s title and chorus, “Burn baby burn,” can be seen as an inappropriate reference to cremation or hell, which is certainly not suitable for the somber atmosphere of a funeral.

7. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” by Wham!

From the album “Make It Big,” released in 1984 under Columbia Records, “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” by Wham! is a buoyant pop song. Its upbeat and jovial tone, along with lyrics about waking up and going out, contrasts sharply with the somber and reflective mood typically expected at a funeral.

8. “Celebration” by Kool & The Gang

Featured on their 1980 album “Celebrate!” and released under De-Lite Records, “Celebration” by Kool & The Gang is a song that embodies joy and festivities. However, its theme of celebration and partying is completely out of sync with the respectful and mournful atmosphere of a funeral.

9. “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin

This 1988 hit from Bobby McFerrin, found on the album “Simple Pleasures” under EMI Manhattan Records, is known for its catchy acapella and optimistic message. But the song’s carefree and overly positive tone, encapsulated in the lyrics “Don’t worry, be happy,” can seem dismissive of the genuine grief and sadness felt at funerals.

10. “Drop Dead Legs” by Van Halen

From Van Halen’s 1984 album “1984,” released under Warner Bros. Records, “Drop Dead Legs” is a classic rock song with a hard-hitting sound. Despite its musical prowess, the song’s title and some of its suggestive lyrics can be considered in poor taste for a funeral, where respect and sensitivity are paramount.

11. “Gold Digger” by Kanye West ft. Jamie Foxx

From Kanye West’s 2005 album “Late Registration,” released under Roc-A-Fella Records, “Gold Digger” became a massive hit, partly thanks to Jamie Foxx’s catchy hook. However, its lyrics discussing financial opportunism in relationships are far from appropriate for a funeral. The song’s focus on materialism and its upbeat nature clash with the respectful, solemn atmosphere expected at such an occasion.

12. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams’ “Happy,” from the 2013 album “Despicable Me 2” soundtrack and released under Back Lot Music, is known for its infectious, upbeat vibe. While it’s a great track for uplifting spirits, its overly cheerful tone is not suitable for a funeral setting where mourners are reflecting on loss and grief.

13. “Let’s Get It Started” by The Black Eyed Peas

Featured on their 2003 album “Elephunk” and released under A&M Records, “Let’s Get It Started” by The Black Eyed Peas is an energetic party anthem. The song’s title and lyrics, which are all about kicking off a good time, make it an awkward choice for a funeral, where the mood is far from celebratory.

14. “Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes

This classic from the 1987 film “Dirty Dancing,” released under RCA Records, is a romantic song often associated with joyous occasions. “Time of My Life” implies a celebration of life at its peak, which can be seen as insensitive or out of place during the mourning process at a funeral.

15. “Wake Me Up” by Avicii

Released in 2013 under PRMD/Island Records, Avicii’s “Wake Me Up” from the album “True,” blends upbeat electronic music with soulful lyrics. However, its themes of awakening and starting anew might not resonate well in a funeral context, where the focus is on closure and bidding farewell.

16. “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi

Bon Jovi’s hit “Livin’ on a Prayer” from their 1986 album “Slippery When Wet,” released under Mercury Records, is a rock anthem about holding on and making it through tough times. While it’s an uplifting song, its energetic and raucous nature doesn’t align with the reflective and somber mood of a funeral.

17. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson

From the 1982 album of the same name and released under Epic Records, Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” is a groundbreaking track known for its iconic music video. The song’s references to horror and supernatural themes, though popular at parties and Halloween events, are inappropriate and potentially disturbing in the context of a funeral.

18. “I Feel Good” by James Brown

James Brown’s “I Feel Good,” from the 1965 album “I Got You” under King Records, is a funk classic that exudes positivity and high energy. This song’s jubilant and upbeat nature can be perceived as insensitive to the feelings of grief and loss typically present at a funeral.

19. “Rock and Roll All Nite” by KISS

Featured on their 1975 album “Dressed to Kill” and released under Casablanca Records, “Rock and Roll All Nite” by KISS is an anthem for partying and enjoying life. Its message of non-stop celebration and raucous lifestyle is a stark contrast to the respectful and solemn atmosphere of a funeral.

20. “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper

Cyndi Lauper’s hit “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” from her 1983 album “She’s So Unusual” and released under Epic Records, is a pop anthem celebrating joy and freedom. However, its light-hearted and carefree message is not in line with the respectful and somber mood typically associated with funerals.

21. “SexyBack” by Justin Timberlake

From Justin Timberlake’s 2006 album “FutureSex/LoveSounds,” released under Jive Records, “SexyBack” is a catchy, upbeat pop song known for its bold lyrics and danceable rhythm. However, its focus on sex appeal and the phrase “I’m bringing sexy back” is highly inappropriate for a funeral, a setting where respect and solemnity are paramount. The song’s playful and provocative nature clashes with the dignified and reflective atmosphere of mourning and remembrance.

Fun Facts: Worst Songs to Play at a Funeral

“Stayin’ Alive” by Bee Gees

• Iconic Movie Connection: “Stayin’ Alive” gained immense popularity as part of the soundtrack for the 1977 film “Saturday Night Fever,” starring John Travolta. The song is synonymous with the disco era, largely due to its prominent use in the movie.
• CPR Rhythm: Interestingly, the song’s tempo of 103 beats per minute is close to the recommended rate for performing CPR chest compressions, making it a useful memory aid for first aid training.

“Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen

• Backward Message Controversy: This song sparked controversy with claims that when played backwards, it contained hidden messages. Queen dismissed these claims, attributing them to coincidence.
• Chart-Topping Success: It became one of Queen’s biggest hits, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

“Highway to Hell” by AC/DC

• Final Album with Bon Scott: “Highway to Hell” is the last album featuring lead singer Bon Scott, who passed away in 1980. The album marks a significant chapter in the band’s history.
• Tribute to Tough Touring: The song was actually a reference to the grueling touring schedule the band endured, metaphorically likening it to a “highway to hell.”

“I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor

• Empowerment Anthem: Originally released as the B-side to a cover song, “I Will Survive” quickly became a symbol of female empowerment and a gay anthem, resonating with audiences worldwide for its themes of resilience.
• Award-Winning Hit: The song won the only Grammy Award ever given for Best Disco Recording in 1980.

“Let’s Get It Started” by The Black Eyed Peas

• Original Title Controversy: The original version of the song was titled “Let’s Get Retarded,” which was changed to “Let’s Get It Started” for its radio release due to concerns about insensitivity.
• NBA Connection: The edited version gained popularity after being used in promotions for the NBA Playoffs in 2004.

“Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes

• Academy Award Winner: This song won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1987, solidifying its place in movie and music history.
• Iconic Dance Scene: The song is forever linked with the iconic final dance scene in “Dirty Dancing,” contributing significantly to the film’s enduring popularity.

“Wake Me Up” by Avicii

• Genre-Blending Hit: Avicii’s “Wake Me Up” was notable for blending electronic music with elements of folk and country, a fusion that was unusual at the time but proved to be highly successful.
• Global Phenomenon: The song reached number one in many countries and became one of the most streamed songs on Spotify.

“Thriller” by Michael Jackson

• Groundbreaking Music Video: The music video for “Thriller,” directed by John Landis, was a landmark in music video production, blending music with a narrative film style and elaborate choreography.
• Best-Selling Album: The “Thriller” album is one of the best-selling albums of all time, showcasing Michael Jackson’s immense influence in the music industry.

“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper

• Feminist Anthem: Originally written from a male perspective, Cyndi Lauper transformed “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” into a feminist anthem, emphasizing female joy and empowerment.
• Iconic Music Video: The song’s music video was a staple of early MTV, known for its colorful and playful style, and helped establish Lauper as a pop culture icon.

“SexyBack” by Justin Timberlake

• Reinventing an Image: With “SexyBack,” Justin Timberlake shifted his image from a boy band member to a mature solo artist, marking a significant evolution in his music career.
• Collaboration with Timbaland: The song’s distinctive sound can be attributed to Timberlake’s collaboration with producer Timbaland, who played a crucial role in shaping the track’s unique style.

And there you have it, music aficionados! From the quirky to the controversial, these songs have made their mark in history, each with its own unique story. Remember, music is a powerful tool that shapes moods and moments, so choose wisely, especially when the occasion calls for respect and reflection.

Thanks for reading.

TBone