10/04/2026
At Adelaide Cemeteries, we see first hand how families are choosing to personalise farewells, particularly through music, to reflect the lives, values and stories of the people they love.
While traditional hymns and classical pieces remain deeply meaningful for many, others are embracing songs that reflect humour, personality and shared memories. Whether it’s a timeless ballad, a surprising favourite or something that simply makes people smile, music has become a powerful way to honour individuality and connection.
It was a pleasure for our CEO, Michael Robertson to join ABC Adelaide to talk about how funeral services are continuing to evolve in meaning and expression.
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Do you have a song you’d like played at your funeral? ❤️
Adelaide Cemeteries CEO Michael Robertson told 891 ABC Adelaide Breakfast with Sonya and Jules that funeral services have evolved over time, with more people incorporating personal tributes—particularly music—to reflect individual lives and stories.
Listen: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/adelaide-breakfast/adelaide-funeral-songs/106541362
“Traditionally, funeral services featured hymns and classical pieces. That remains meaningful for many families today, but we’re seeing the role of visual and audio storytelling really evolve beyond a single photo,” he said.
“The number one song played at funerals in Adelaide is Whitney Houston’s ‘I Will Always Love You’. Others that always bring a smile include ‘Always Look on the Bright Side of Life’ and Queen’s ‘Another One Bites the Dust’—a reflection of people’s sense of humour.”
Tune into Breakfast with Sonya and Jules on 891 ABC Adelaide on
