by Danny Kalis

Created on: March 17, 2010

Thinking of songs to play at your own funeral is a very personal decision. When I saw this article on helium, I thought, "Hey, that one will be easy." Three hours, some tears, a bit of reflection, and a pint of ice cream later; I am finally ready to write.

My immediate thoughts were to make my funeral soundtrack an autobiography. Funerals are the time to remember and celebrate one's life, and what better way than by viewing it beginning to end through songs reflecting different parts of life and the emotions each one presented.

Many ideas and questions flourished in my head as I prepared to write this article.I eventually  decided that my funeral should be somewhat of a chronological autobiography. Instead of songs listed in the year they came out, however, I listed songs in the order I felt the message appeared in my life. I decided my favorite instrumentals would make an excellent intro and finale. I based my decision on songs 2-9 mostly on lyrics. After much internal struggle and debate, I present you my most personal story, my "Funeral Soundtrack."

Track 1: "Tony Montana Theme" - Scarface Soundtrack

Being born in the absolute depths of poverty and oppression, I love the thought of the underdog defying all odds and becoming one of the richest, most powerful men in America. Obviously I don't agree with or practice any of Montana's ways, but the theory of "From nothing to greatness" is a very strong one in my life. I also love the omnious beat that seems to suggest "I'm coming, and I will succeed, no matter what obstacles stand in my way."

Track 2: "Dear Mama" - Tupac Shakur

My mother has been the greatest inspiration in my life. We have fought countless times, but she is ALWAYS there for me, even now as an adult out on my own. The song expresses in great lengths how Tupac and his mother struggled through poverty, loneliness, and how proud she was of his eventual success.

"Cause when I was low you were there for me
Never left me alone because you cared for me"

"And when it seems that I'm hopeless
You say the words that can get me back in focus"

Track 3: "I Guess This is Growing Up" -Blink 182

Growing up was never easy for me. I was always "Obby" (Dane Cook joke) the kid that everyone made fun of. I never seemed to be able to just fit in. I also had extreme pressure from loved ones and educators to succeed based upon my test scores and creativity. It was very easy to feel like I was constantly a disappointed to the ones I most wanted to impress. Luckily, I had

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