Honoring a loved one when they’re gone is easier done through music. Music and lyrics have the power to bring us through time, reminding us of some of our most cherished memories. Country music is particularly nostalgic, focusing on the good-hearted joys in all of us. When it comes to the best country funeral songs, few artists are as admired as Waylon Jennings.
Jump ahead to these sections:
- Waylon Jennings Funeral Songs for Mom or Grandma
- Waylon Jennings Funeral Songs for Dad or Grandpa
- Waylon Jennings Funeral Songs for a Sibling
- Waylon Jennings Funeral Songs for a Spouse or Partner
- Waylon Jennings Funeral Songs for a Friend
Waylon Jennings is one of America’s best-known singers, songwriters, and musicians. He was a founding pioneer of the Outlaw Movement in American country music. His critically acclaimed albums are beloved by all country fans, making his work some of the best funeral songs of all time.
If you’re honoring a Waylon Jennings fan, it can be hard to know what music to include in your tribute. No matter what type of event you’re planning, these are the best Waylon Jennings songs for a funeral or memorial service.
Waylon Jennings Funeral Songs for Mom or Grandma
Honoring a mom or grandma means more than just remembering the good times. How do you show your maternal figure just how much they meant to you? Try these Waylon Jennings songs.
1. “Rose in Paradise” from Hangin’ Tough
One of Jenning’s biggest hits, this song was inspired by a woman named Rose. In the 19th-century, Rose presumably killed all of her husbands. Though taken to court, she was never proven guilty.
2. “Good Hearted Woman” from Good Hearted Woman
Another Jennings classic is “Good Hearted Woman.” This is a song about a woman with a heart of gold who keeps falling for the wrong men. Still, she’s cherished for her compassion.
3. “Luckenbach, Texas” from Ol’ Waylon
Though Jennings had never been to Luckenbach, Texas, prior to writing this song, he still fills it with meaning. A tribute to life’s simpler things, this is a wistful song about nostalgia.
4. “You Asked Me To” from Honky Tonk Heroes
In “You Asked Me To,” the narrator describes doing anything simply because someone they loved asked them to. When you feel that simple yet meaningful bond between family members, you’ll do anything for them.
5. “Never Been to Spain” from Ladies Love Outlaws
We all have a list of things we want to do, but life doesn’t always work out that way. Though Jennings has “never been to Spain” or many of the other destinations listed in the song lyrics, it doesn’t really matter.
Waylon Jennings Funeral Songs for Dad or Grandpa
Your dad and your grandpa are your first teachers. These Waylon Jennings songs capture the essence of this important relationship.
6. “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way?” from Dreaming My Dreams
This tribute to Hank Williams questions the progress of country music after the loss of a huge figure. Though things might have been the “same for years,” it’s time to change.
7. “I’ve Always Been Crazy” from I’ve Always Been Crazy
Written in response to the media frenzy surrounding Jennings, this is a song about a lengthy past. Though Jennings wasn’t ever perfect, he never intentionally hurt anyone. By staying true, he lived an honorable life.
8. “Good Ol’ Boys” from Music Man
This song was famously recorded for the Dukes of Hazzard TV Show. The song has famous lines like, “Fighting’ the system like two modern-day Robin Hoods.”
9. “Mammas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” from Waylon & Willie
Next, this famous song is about what happens when men are raised to be cowboys. They end up picking up guitars and driving old trucks. Though they’re always on the road, cowboys are truly free.
10. “Honky Tonk Heroes” from Honky Tonk Heroes
The infamous “Honky Tonk Heroes” began the shift of the “Outlaw Country” movement of 1970s country music. This shift from slick, curated production to rougher lyrics all began with this ode to those who live life on the wild side.
Waylon Jennings Funeral Songs for a Sibling
The best funeral songs for a brother or sister honor the special bond you shared. Life’s first friend, siblings leave a legacy you’ll never forget.
11. “Ain’t No Road Too Long” from Sesame Street
This song between Sesame Street character Big Bird and Waylon Jennings is surprisingly uplifting. During the song, Jennings encourages Big Bird to keep going. You have to learn how to say “yes” even when life says “no.”
12. “Waymore's Blues” from Waymore's Blues Part II
Next, “Waymore's Blues” is a tribute to the legendary country artist Jimmie Rodgers. Though they’re both outlaws and country treasures, there will never be another quite like him.
13. “Hardline” from Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man
“Hardline” is a song about change. Though you might spend your whole life fighting, it’s okay to take your time. Just keep your trust and strength no matter what.
14. “Ain’t No God in Mexico” from Honky Tonk Heroes
A new day is always coming, and sometimes you have to accept that the past is in the past. “Ain’t No God in Mexico” is a nostalgic song about finding sunshine chasing trains and crossing borders into the unknown.
15. “Don’t You Think This Outlaw Bit’s Done Got Out of Hand” from I’ve Always Been Crazy
What started out as a joke sure did get out of hand—at least, according to Jennings. This tongue-in-cheek song pokes fun at what it means to be an outlaw, and it’s sure to get you tapping your feet along to the beat.
Waylon Jennings Funeral Songs for a Spouse or Partner
If you’re planning a memorial service for a spouse or partner, it can feel impossible to find the right tribute to them. These Waylon Jennings funeral songs capture that connection you still continue to share.
16. “I’m a Ramblin’ Man” from The Ramblin’ Man
In “I’m a Ramblin’ Man,” Jennings tells his lover that he’s nothing but a rolling stone. Those around him only get hurt, but they can’t resist getting closer.
17. “Amanda” from The Ramblin’ Man
One of Jennings’ most heart-wrenching songs, this is a ballad about love and loss. Described by the artist as an apology to his wife, this song grapples with the end of a beautiful relationship. Somber and emotional, “Amanda” is a call to action.
18. “Belle of the Ball” from The Ramblin’ Woman
This is a song about the absolute “Belle of the Ball.” A southern charmer, she can have anyone she wants—but first, she needs to figure out what she wants herself. She’s so memorable she’ll never be forgotten.
19. “The Wurlitzer Prize (I Don’t Want to Get Over You)” from Waylon & Willie
When you love someone, they never really leave you. Though you might sing the “same old song,” you don’t ever have to get over someone you want to remember forever.
20. “Stop the World (and Let Me Off)” from Folk-Country
We all relate to the feeling of spiraling out of control. If you’re struggling to find air after loss, you’re not alone. It means that you love freely, and you’ll discover happiness again in time.
Waylon Jennings Funeral Songs for a Friend
Last but not least, say goodbye to a dear friend with these Waylon Jennings funeral songs. Ideal for highlighting someone’s impact on your life and the world, these lyrical tributes prove there is always optimism to be found.
21. “Lonesome, On’ry and Mean” from Lonesome, On’ry and Mean
This song is a testament to Jennings’ wild side. Though his spirit loves to wander, he can’t escape his dreams. The perfect ode to anyone who loved to live life, this song is a special memorial pick.
22. “I Ain’t Living Long Like This” from Waylon and Company
As the song title implies, sometimes the good die young. This badass song is about running afoul of the law and living on your own terms.
23. “Clyde” from Music Man
This song tells the story of “Clyde,” a man who plays the bass with “finesse and grace.” Though simple, this is a beautiful ode to country music, legacies, and the simple life. Sometimes there’s nothing more touching than singing the blues.
24. “A Couple More Years” from Are You Ready for the Country
We all make mistakes, and this song is a reminder that it’s what comes next that matters most. No matter your age, wisdom is far more than a number. “A couple more years” might make all the difference, but it’s about the quality of your time.
25. “Drinking & Dreamin’” from Turn the Page
Lastly, “Drinking & Dreamin’” is a ballad for the dreamers of the world. Painting a picture of rural America, this song evokes memories of taking off toward a brighter tomorrow. Life is best when it's spent by your friends.
A Country Goodbye: Waylon Jennings Tribute
Ultimately, Waylon Jennings' music continues to inspire people of all backgrounds. Even if you don’t follow country music, Waylon Jennings is an influential musician and songwriter. His lyrics come from the heart, and he isn’t afraid to get raw with his words.
Saying goodbye is the hardest thing to do, especially when saying a final goodbye to a special loved one. Using music brings your whole family together, giving you an opportunity to remember your loved one with beautiful musical tributes. How do you want to be remembered?