London residents have proven themselves as an eclectic bunch when it comes to choosing the perfect farewell song, as Co-op reveals the area’s top 10 choices in its Funeral Music Charts.
According to a survey from local Co-op Funeralcare homes, only 26% of people in London have left specific song requests for their big send off, despite 70% of people agreeing that music was very important at a funeral and 50% feeling that music should be a representation of their personality.
While traditional hymns prove to be a popular option for people in London, some modern hits from the last decade were also selected as favourites, with some residents revealing they would have unusual choices, such as Ariana Grande – One Last time, at their funeral.
A number of surprising songs made this year’s Funeral Music Charts in the UK, and the top 10 revealed for London were:
1. Robbie Williams – Angels
2. Oasis – Wonderwall
3. The Beatles – Hey Jude
4. Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody
5. The Fray – How to save a life
6. Bay City Rollers – Bye Bye Baby
7. ABBA – Dancing Queen
8. Art Garfunkel – Bright Eyes
9. Ariana Grande – One Last Time
10. Fugees – Killing me Softly
These results were revealed during research carried out by Co-op Funeralcare, aiming to uncover trends and preferences when it comes to planning our own and our loved one’s funerals.
Co-op Funeralcare homes including – H C Grimstead, Parsons Green, Bexleyheath, Croydon, Streatham, West Wickham, Orpington, and Morden – have all reported an increase in more modern song choices over the last few years.
Each year since 2002, Co-operative Funeralcare has compiled its Funeral Music Charts to find out what tunes take the top spots.
Nationally, Co-op’s own business data revealed Frank Sinatra ‘My Way’ took the number one spot for the ninth time – followed closely by ‘Time to Say Goodbye’ by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman and ‘Over the Rainbow’ by Eva Cassidy.
Some of the most unusual song requests reported by UK funeral directors included Meatloaf ‘Bat out of Hell’, ‘Ding dong the witch is dead’ and The Trammps ‘Disco Inferno (Burn Baby Burn).’
Jan Neeson, funeral director at Croydon Co-op Funeralcare, says “It was interesting to see what came out on top for people in London. Music is hugely important during a send-off and it’s always nice to see the wonderfully unique and personal songs selected.
“We all live such unique lives and our funerals should reflect that, offering a moment where friends and family can celebrate the life that person lived – whether that be with a song of emotional sentiment, or one filled with fun and laughter!”
