Sometimes a song can say what we don't yet have words for.
Whether you need something to cry to, something to sit quietly with, or something that reminds you you're not alone, music has a way of meeting us exactly where we are. These are songs that have comforted me, carried me, and helped me process feelings that felt too big to hold on my own.
Take what you need, skip what you don't, and trust that the right song often finds us at the right time.
What I Wouldn't Give
We the kings
This song captures the longing that grief so often brings - the wish for just one more conversation, one more hug, one more ordinary moment with someone you love. It reminds me that love doesn't end with loss, even when our hearts desperately wish for more time.
"There's nothing I wouldn't give for more time."
One More Day
Diamond Rio
This song is about having a wish granted for one more day...but knowing you'd simply wish for another day after that.
"One more day, one more time, one more sunset, maybe I'd be satisfied. But then again, I know what it would do...leave me wishin' still for one more day with you."
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Hero In Our House
Gavin Degraw
Gavin has always held a special place in my heart. He wrote an album about his parents love story which was released after both of his parents had recently passed. This song shares about the unspoken hero of the house, his mom.
"There was a hero in my house. I really miss her."
It's My Life - 2003 Acoustic Version
Bon Jovi
This one may be more of a "me" preference than for the vast majority - My mom was a big Bon Jovi fan. I really enjoyed the acoustic version of this song and felt the energy matched the lyrics in a different way than I previously noticed. To me, I interpret it as a message for us, the living and grieving, to live our lives to the fullest while we can.
"I just want to live while I'm alive"
Home
A song inspired by a conversation Anderson Cooper had with Stephen Colbert on the podcast, Sara Bareilles was inspired to use her art to tell their story.
She then continued her artistic flow to create her new album - Good Grief - to share her perspective on grief.
"So tell me your story...I'll tell you mine."
Sara Bareilles
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When Tomorrow Starts Without Me
Trey Pendley
A song written as a letter to those that are left behind.
"And the sun will still come up in the mornin. Still go back down at night. And the days may seem a little darker. But I promise they're just as bright. Close your eyes, breathe in, and youll see...That it's okay when tomorrow starts without me..."
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Would Have Loved Her
Chris Bandi
One of the hardest and most overwhelming parts of grief for me has been the daunting thought of the future moments my mom would miss. This song tells the story of building your life with a new partner your parent who has passed would've loved.
"I miss you and wish you could just meet each other, cause I bet you would've loved her."
You Should Be Here
Cole Swindell
It's so hard to have moments of joy when you realize no matter what, it can't be perfect without the person you're missing.
"It's one of those moments that's got your name written all over it. And you know that if I had just one wish, it'd be that you didn't have to miss this."
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I Am Not Okay
Jelly Roll
There's no doubt that grief hits in waves, but what I learned is it truly comes out of nowhere sometimes. It's not always the anniversaries or big days. Sometimes it's a random Tuesday on your drive to work. This song resonates with me on the tough days.
"I know I can't be the only one who's holding on for dear life..."
