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Everyone has a different perspective on death. Most believe in an afterlife, whether in the traditional religious sense, or in a more personal, non-conforming way.
Others do not buy into an afterlife, and believe death is truly "The End". One thing that the majority of believers and non-believers agree on is that death sucks.
With the exception of a small minority of fundamentalist freaks, no one looks forward to death. It's human nature to survive at all costs.
The fear of death has inspired many songs in the history of popular music. Some of them face it head on and with honesty, while others deny any fear with a flash of bravado. Songs that speak on the subject of death usually acquire even more power when the artist passes on.
This playlist features 23 of the very best tracks I could find that have been inspired by the fear of death (or lack thereof). From the classic blues of Rev. Gary Davis, Bukka White and Blind Lemon Jefferson, to the timeless Americana of Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Ralph Stanley and the Louvin Brothers, to classic rock staples like Queen, Blue Oyster Cult, Pink Floyd and The Doors.
This 97 minute playlist, although eclectic from a genre perspective, is tied together by it's morbid theme and song quality. So take some time and enjoy a musical perspective on death and dying.
1. A Change Is Gonna Come - Sam Cooke
2. Death Don't Have No Mercy - Blind Gary Davis
3. Hope There's Someone - Antony And The Johnsons
5. Will You Miss Me When I'm Gone? - June Carter Cash
6. The Mercy Seat - Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds
8. (Don't Fear) The Reaper - Blue Oyster Cult
9. The Great Gig In The Sky - Pink Floyd
10. Who (Will Take My Place) - Dusty Springfield
11. O Death - Camper Van Beethoven
12. Are You Afraid To Die - The Louvin Brothers