In a world where music often serves as the soundtrack of our lives, it turns out that even in our final moments, many of us have a particular tune we want to hear. A recent survey conducted by the end-of-life care charity Marie Curie in the UK has revealed that the most requested song for the dying is none other than Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” The defiant anthem of individualism and personal triumph captures the essence of living life on one’s own terms, a fitting tribute for those preparing to say farewell.
With over 1,000 respondents who had recently lost loved ones, the survey asked about the songs their relatives or friends chose to hear in their last moments. The results formed the basis of Marie Curie’s unique playlist titled “Music for the End,” a list that reflects not just the melancholy of passing, but also the joy, strength, and nostalgia that music can bring in the face of death.
It’s no surprise that “My Way” claimed the top spot. Sinatra’s timeless declaration of self-reliance and personal resilience resonates with many, particularly in an era where people are seeking to leave a legacy of independence and strength. For those who wish to go out with their heads held high, “My Way” is the perfect anthem.
Coming in second is Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You,” a song of eternal love and devotion, followed closely by Tina Turner’s powerful “Simply The Best.” These tracks speak to a sense of continuity and emotional connection that outlasts death, offering comfort to both the person passing and their loved ones left behind.
Other songs that made the top ten include Cyndi Lauper’s upbeat “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” and Louis Armstrong’s heartwarming “What a Wonderful World.” Both choices reveal that even in death, many people want to celebrate life and the good moments it has to offer. These selections, far from being morbid, reflect the desire to focus on joy, love, and the beauty of the world.
Dr. Tracey McConnell, a music therapy expert and senior research fellow at Queen’s University Belfast, noted the important role music plays in helping people cope with terminal illness and the fear of dying. “Music can help people express their feelings and make them feel better, whatever their health or emotional situation,” she explained.
Indeed, nearly 84% of the participants said that music helped relax and calm their loved ones during their final moments, while 61% noted that it eased their own anxiety and emotional distress as well. Music becomes a shared experience, a way for families to bond and find peace during an otherwise painful time. It offers a sense of normalcy, serving as both a distraction and a balm for those facing the physical symptoms of terminal illness.
The top ten list is a mixture of the sentimental, the empowering, and the nostalgic. Other songs that made the list include Judy Garland’s “Over the Rainbow,” Christina Aguilera’s “Beautiful,” and The Beatles’ classic “Hey Jude.” Queen’s emotional “These Are the Days of Our Lives” rounds out the playlist, providing yet another reflection on the passage of time and the beauty found within it.
While the left may often dismiss the importance of tradition and personal values, this playlist serves as a reminder that, for many, the music we choose at the end speaks volumes about the lives we’ve lived. From Sinatra’s proud declaration of doing things “my way” to the timeless reminder of love and beauty found in other selections, these songs reflect the values of individuality, family, and the beauty of life that conservative-minded individuals hold dear. In the end, music—like life—remains deeply personal, and perhaps that’s exactly how it should be.
