20 Songs About Loss, Death And Grief

Experiencing loss, death, and grief is an inevitable part of life, yet it remains one of the most challenging journeys we navigate. As someone who has walked this path, I understand how these emotions can feel overwhelming, leaving us searching for solace and understanding. Music, with its profound ability to connect with our deepest emotions, often becomes a refuge during such times. 

In this playlist, I’ve compiled a list of 20 songs that resonate with themes of loss, death, and grief. Each song offers a unique perspective, providing comfort, reflection, and a sense of shared experience. 

1. “United In Grief” by Kendrick Lamar

“United In Grief” is the opening track of Kendrick Lamar’s album Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers. The song delves into Lamar’s personal reflections and struggles with grief and loss. It addresses themes of family and generational trauma, societal pressures, and his personal coping mechanisms. Lamar reflects on his anxiety about wealth, his relationship with sex as a coping mechanism, and his feelings of guilt and responsibility within the hip-hop culture. The song is structured as a suite in three parts, each presenting different musical and lyrical elements, making it a complex and evocative piece that defies conventional song structures.

2. “Who Knew” by Pink

“Who Knew” is a poignant song by Pink, written about the loss of several friends to drug overdoses. Released in 2006 as part of her album I’m Not Dead, the song has taken on various meanings for Pink over the years, including reflecting on the loss of her grandmother and her dog. The lyrics express the pain of losing someone unexpectedly and the longing for their presence. The music video further emphasizes this theme by depicting a young couple enjoying time together before the boy succumbs to drug addiction, leaving the girl to cope with his sudden death.

3. “My Heart Will Go On” by Céline Dion

“My Heart Will Go On” is the iconic theme song for the 1997 film Titanic, performed by Céline Dion. Composed by James Horner with lyrics by Will Jennings, the song captures the emotional essence of the film’s tragic love story between Jack and Rose. The song’s lyrics and Dion’s powerful vocal performance convey a message of enduring love and remembrance, making it a timeless anthem for those experiencing loss. The song achieved massive commercial success, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time.

4. “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth

“See You Again” is a tribute song by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth, dedicated to the late actor Paul Walker, who died in a car accident in 2013. The song was commissioned for the soundtrack of Furious 7 and became a global hit, resonating deeply with fans of the Fast & Furious franchise. The lyrics reflect on the pain of losing a close friend and the hope of reuniting in the afterlife. The music video, which features scenes from the film, further emphasizes the themes of friendship and loss, making it an emotionally powerful tribute to Walker.

5. “You Should Be Here” by Cole Swindell

“You Should Be Here” is a heartfelt tribute by Cole Swindell to his father, who died unexpectedly in 2013. The song, co-written with Ashley Gorley, captures Swindell’s profound sense of loss and longing for his father’s presence during significant life moments. Released in 2015 as the lead single from his album of the same name, the song resonated with many listeners who have experienced similar losses, reaching number one on the Billboard Country Airplay and Hot Country Songs charts. The accompanying music video further emphasizes the personal nature of the song, featuring Swindell visiting his father’s gravesite.

6. “Alone Again (Naturally)” by Gilbert O’Sullivan

“Alone Again (Naturally)” is a melancholic ballad by Gilbert O’Sullivan, released in 1972. The song explores themes of abandonment and despair, with the narrator contemplating suicide after being left at the altar and reflecting on the deaths of his parents. Despite its somber lyrics, the song was a commercial success, spending six weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. O’Sullivan has stated that the song is not autobiographical, but it effectively captures the universal feelings of loneliness and grief.

7. “Fix You” by Coldplay

“Fix You” by Coldplay is an emotional song written by Chris Martin to comfort his then-wife, Gwyneth Paltrow, after the death of her father. Released in 2005 on the album X&Y, the song addresses themes of support and healing in the face of loss. The lyrics convey a message of hope and reassurance, with Martin offering to help “fix” the emotional pain experienced by a loved one. The song’s uplifting melody and poignant lyrics have made it a favorite for those seeking solace in difficult times.

8. “I Grieve” by Peter Gabriel

“I Grieve” by Peter Gabriel is a deeply introspective song about the process of mourning and the passage of time after a loss. Originally released on the soundtrack for the film City of Angels in 1998 and later included on his 2002 album Up, the song begins with a sense of profound sadness and gradually transitions to a more hopeful outlook. Gabriel wrote the song to fill a gap he perceived in music addressing grief, aiming to provide an emotional tool for listeners dealing with loss. The song’s structure reflects the journey from sorrow to acceptance, capturing the complex emotions associated with grieving.

9. “Candle in the Wind” by Elton John

“Candle in the Wind” is a poignant ballad written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, originally released in 1973 as part of the album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. The song is a tribute to Marilyn Monroe, reflecting on her life and the pressures of fame that led to her untimely death. The metaphor of a “candle in the wind” symbolizes Monroe’s fragile and fleeting life. In 1997, Elton John re-recorded the song with revised lyrics to honor Princess Diana after her tragic death, further cementing its status as an anthem of mourning and remembrance. The song’s emotional depth and timeless quality have made it a powerful tribute to those who have passed away, resonating with listeners worldwide.

10. “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

Originally written and recorded by Dolly Parton in 1973, “I Will Always Love You” gained immense popularity through Whitney Houston’s 1992 rendition for the soundtrack of The Bodyguard. The song expresses a bittersweet farewell, with the singer acknowledging the end of a relationship while affirming enduring love. Houston’s powerful vocal performance adds a profound emotional layer, making it a universal anthem for loss and separation. The song’s lyrics and delivery capture the pain of letting go while cherishing the memories of a loved one.

11. “Even in Death” by Evanescence

“Even in Death” is a song by Evanescence, written by Amy Lee in 1996. It explores the theme of undying love that transcends death. The lyrics depict a narrative of refusing to accept the death of a loved one, suggesting a love so strong that it defies the boundaries of life and death. The song was initially released on the band’s demo album Origin and later re-recorded for the 2016 album Lost Whispers. Amy Lee has described the song as a reflection of the intense and sometimes irrational emotions that accompany grief, making it a haunting and evocative piece.

12. “Marjorie” by Taylor Swift

“Marjorie” is a deeply personal song by Taylor Swift from her 2020 album Evermore. The song is a tribute to Swift’s late maternal grandmother, Marjorie Finlay, who was an opera singer. Through the lyrics, Swift reflects on the wisdom and influence her grandmother imparted, expressing regret for not having known her better while she was alive. The song features samples of Finlay’s own voice, adding an intimate and sentimental touch. “Marjorie” captures the essence of remembering and honoring a loved one who continues to inspire even after their passing.

13. “One More Light” by Linkin Park

“One More Light” is a poignant ballad by Linkin Park from their seventh studio album of the same name, released in 2017. The song was co-written by Mike Shinoda and Eg White and serves as a tribute to a friend of the band who passed away from cancer. It addresses themes of loss and the impact of losing someone close, emphasizing the importance of cherishing connections with loved ones. The song became especially significant following the death of lead vocalist Chester Bennington, resonating deeply with fans and serving as a reminder of the fragility of life. The music video features footage of Bennington and highlights the band’s journey, further underscoring the emotional weight of the song.

14. “Joanne” by Lady Gaga

“Joanne” is a deeply personal song by Lady Gaga, written in memory of her late aunt, Joanne Stefani Germanotta, who died of lupus at the age of 19. Featured on her 2016 album Joanne, the song is a stripped-down acoustic ballad that reflects on the impact of Joanne’s death on Gaga’s family. The lyrics are written from the family’s perspective, capturing the sense of loss and longing for a connection with Joanne. The song’s emotional depth is enhanced by its simple composition, allowing Gaga’s vocals to convey the heartfelt tribute to her aunt’s enduring influence on her life and career.

15. “Angels” by Robbie Williams

“Angels” is a classic ballad by Robbie Williams, released in 1997 on his debut solo album Life thru a Lens. Co-written with Guy Chambers, the song explores themes of comfort and protection, with the “angels” symbolizing the presence of loved ones who have passed on. Williams has mentioned that the song was inspired by his interest in the paranormal and the idea that those who have died continue to watch over and care for the living. “Angels” became Williams’ best-selling single and is often associated with funerals and memorials, resonating with listeners through its uplifting message and powerful chorus.

16. “Angel” by Sarah McLachlan

“Angel” by Sarah McLachlan is a haunting ballad from her 1997 album Surfacing. The song was inspired by the struggles of musicians dealing with the pressures of the industry and turning to drugs as a form of escape. McLachlan wrote “Angel” after reading about the heroin-related death of a fellow musician, capturing the despair and longing for relief that often accompany addiction. The “angel” in the song symbolizes the temporary solace found in drugs, juxtaposed with the tragic consequences. McLachlan’s emotive vocal performance and the song’s sparse arrangement create a powerful and enduring piece that continues to resonate with audiences.

17. “Visiting Hours” by Ed Sheeran

“Visiting Hours” is a heartfelt ballad by Ed Sheeran, released on August 19, 2021, as a promotional single from his album =. The song is a tribute to Sheeran’s late friend and mentor, Michael Gudinski, an influential Australian music promoter who passed away in March 2021. Sheeran performed the song for the first time at Gudinski’s funeral, and the lyrics express a deep longing for the ability to visit loved ones in heaven to share life’s milestones and seek advice. The song’s emotional resonance is amplified by its simple acoustic arrangement and Sheeran’s poignant vocal delivery, making it a touching ode to the enduring impact of lost loved ones.

18. “I’ll Be Missing You” by Diddy and Faith Evans ft. 112

“I’ll Be Missing You” is a tribute song by Diddy (then known as Puff Daddy) and Faith Evans, featuring 112. Released in 1997, the song honors the memory of The Notorious B.I.G. (Christopher Wallace), who was tragically murdered earlier that year. The track samples The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” and features lyrics that reflect on the pain of losing a close friend and the hope of reuniting in the afterlife. Faith Evans, who was married to The Notorious B.I.G., delivers a soulful chorus, while Diddy’s verses recount the emotional journey of coping with the loss. The song became a massive hit, topping charts worldwide and becoming an anthem of grief and remembrance.

19. “Last Kiss” by Pearl Jam

“Last Kiss” is a cover of a 1960s song originally performed by J. Frank Wilson and the Cavaliers. Pearl Jam released their version in 1999, and it quickly became one of their most popular songs. The song tells the tragic story of a young couple involved in a car accident, where the narrator survives but loses his girlfriend. The lyrics capture the sorrow and anguish of the narrator as he recalls the last moments with his loved one and expresses a longing to be reunited in the afterlife. The simplicity of the song’s arrangement, combined with Eddie Vedder’s emotive vocals, creates a powerful and haunting portrayal of sudden loss and enduring love.

20. “Hurt” by Johnny Cash

“Hurt” is a cover of a song originally written and performed by Nine Inch Nails. Johnny Cash’s rendition, released in 2002 on his album American IV: The Man Comes Around, is widely regarded as one of the most powerful interpretations of the song. Cash’s version transforms the industrial rock original into a somber acoustic ballad, reflecting on themes of regret, pain, and mortality. The accompanying music video, which features images from Cash’s life and career, adds a poignant visual layer to the song’s introspective lyrics. Cash’s frail voice and the stripped-down arrangement convey a profound sense of vulnerability and sorrow, making it a deeply moving exploration of personal loss and the passage of time.

Submit Your Song to This Playlist

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Serena Whitfield

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.