Young wrote this song, “Sleeps With Angels” as a tribute to the singer. Kurt Cobain quoted Neil Young in his suicide note. He remembers all the good times and the songs they used to sing - “Old friend, we sure do miss you, but you’ve not missed a thing.” 12. Waylon Jennings wrote the song “Old Friend” for Buddy Holly. Later, Elton John repurposed the song to honor Princess Diana. The original lyrics begin, “Goodbye, Norma Jean,” which was Monroe’s real first name. This song was first written as a tribute to Marilyn Monroe. “If there is a rock and roll heaven, well, you know they got a hell of a band.” This song, by The Righteous Brothers, includes a laundry list of rock and roll greats who died - like Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, and Otis Redding. “Rock and Roll Heaven” by The Righteous Brothers “Angel of Harlem” by U2Īlthough U2’s song “Angel of Harlem” gives a nod to several great performers, it’s said that the song was written in tribute to Billie Holiday. Stevie Wonder wrote his version of “Happy Birthday” to honor Martin Luther King, Jr. “Happy Birthday” by Stevie WonderĮven though most of the songs on our list so far are tributes to musicians who have died, this song is the exception. This song, which borrows the tune of “Every Breath You Take” by The Police, was written in tribute to the young rapper. “I’ll Be Missing You” by Puff Daddy and Faith Evansīiggie Smalls was murdered in 1997. The first part of the song was written as a tribute to Buddy Holly, who died in an airplane crash. The next time you have an hour to burn, listen to “American Pie” and read about all the symbolism and imagery packed into it. Gaye was killed by his father, who claimed he shot his son in self-defense. “Missing You” was written by Lionel Richie as a tribute to fellow Motown great Marvin Gaye. One of the most gut-wrenching songs ever written, “Tears in Heaven,” was written by Eric Clapton after the accidental death of his son. Those songs appear on our list but did you know about “Empty Garden” as well? This is John’s tribute to John Lennon. “Empty Garden (Hey, Hey Johnny)” by Elton JohnĪs you think about tribute songs by Elton John, Marilyn Monroe and Princess Diana come to mind. “Here Today” is Paul McCartney’s tribute to his fallen friend. It shouldn’t be surprising to learn that there were many tribute songs written for John Lennon after his death in 1980. These songs may not be your first choice for funeral songs for a memorial service, but a few songs on the list may be appropriate. Here are some of the great tribute songs written in memory of people who died. Songwriters know that emotions connect all of us - including grief.
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