Easter is here! Whatever you've got on the calendar to mark the occasion, don't forget to include a playlist of Easter songs to create the perfect backdrop for all this year's festivities.
Whether you're gathering with friends, attending service or hosting Easter brunch, it's essential to have just the right selection of music to accompany the April holiday.
In the collection of Easter-inspired tunes below, you’ll discover worship songs, Christian classics, odes to spring and and other time-honored songs like, “Just a Closer Walk With Thee,” Bing Crosby’s “Easter Parade,” “The Old Rugged Cross” by Alan Jackson, and many other favorites.
There are also contemporary songs from artists like Dolly Parton, Whitney Houston, Michael W. Smith and Aretha Franklin to name a few.
For the littlest members of your gang celebrating Easter, you'll find a variety of kids' songs that children are sure to love singing along with, including Bounce Patrol’s “The Easter Bunny Bop” and “Here Comes Peter Cottontail” by the Kiboomers.
In fact, this compilation has something for just about everyone to enjoy on Easter Sunday. All you need to do is add these songs to your holiday playlist and press “play.”
Worship Songs for Easter
‘Holy Forever’ by CeCe Winans
Your spirits will soar listening to "Holy Forever," an inspirational hymn performed by award-winning gospel singer, Cece Winans.
‘Sunday is Coming’ by Phil Wickham
This heartwarming song by Phil Wickham is a stirring reminder to never lose hope because there's always another Sunday on the horizon and with it comes redemption.
‘Glorious Day’ by Passion (ft. Kristian Stanfill)
This uplifting Easter song by Passion (featuring Kristian Stanfill on vocals) is sure to inspire this year's celebration. The 2017 live rendition is especially moving and completes any Easter playlist.
‘What A Beautiful Name’ by Hillsong Worship
A cut off the album "Let There Be Light," this moving song by Hillsong Worship is the perfect tribute. Recorded live in Sydney, Australia, "What A Beautiful Name" will uplift you and everyone else this Easter.
‘Great Is Thy Faithfulness’ by Carrie Underwood and CeCe Winans
Carrie Underwood and gospel singer CeCe Winans bring down the house with this inspirational performance of the worship hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness.”
‘Just A Closer Walk With Thee’ by Patsy Cline and Willie Nelson
Many artists have covered this time-honored worship song, but none quite like country greats Willie Nelson and Patsy Cline, who collaborate on this beautiful duet just right for your Easter soundtrack.
‘When I Get Where I’m Going’ by Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton
Brad Paisley teams up with the legendary Dolly Parton and together they make sweet magic with “When I Get Where I’m Going,” an emotional song about reuniting with lost loved ones in the afterlife.
‘Take My Hand, Precious Lord’ by Elvis Presley
The King, himself, Elvis Presley, does a heartfelt rendition of the classic gospel song “Take My Hand, Precious Lord,” which is a perfect addition to any Easter celebration.
‘Easter Song’ by Keith Green
This song of worship by Keith Green was released in 1977 and still endures as an uplifting Christian ode to Easter and all its blessings.
‘Psalm 91 (On Eagles’ Wings)’ by Shane and Shane
This time-honored worship song based on Psalm 91 gets an update in this heartfelt duet by the Christian duo Shane and Shane.
‘Because He Lives’ by Harry Connick Jr.
Harry Connick Jr. gives this old gospel song a New Orleans twist. With the lyrics, "Life is worth living just because he lives," it's an uplifting homage to Easter or any other time of year.
‘The Old Rugged Cross’ by Alan Jackson
Alan Jackson delivers an emotional and powerful rendition of this hymn written by Methodist minister George Bennard. This Easter staple depicting the sacrifice of Christ has been sung by church choirs and country singers alike.
‘Say Yes’ by Michelle Williams
Michelle Williams brought about a mini Destiny’s Child reunion with this 2014 gospel hit off her "Journey to Freedom" album.
‘Peace In the Valley’ by Elvis Presley
The "King of Rock ‘n’ Roll" shows off his gospel side on this cover, which he dedicated to the people of Hungary after the invasion by the Soviet Union.
‘How Great Thou Art’ by Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood’s angelic rendition of this classic hymn praises both the greatness of God and the beauty of nature.
‘Christ the Lord Is Risen Today’ by The Tabernacle Choir
One of the most loved Easter hymns was penned in the 18th century by Charles Wesley, who along with his brother founded the Methodist movement. But he can’t be credited for including those exuberant "Alleluias" at the end of each line, which were added later.
‘In the Garden’ by Joey + Rory
Willie Nelson, Rosemary Clooney, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Alan Jackson and Meryl Streep have all covered this the gospel hymn by C. Austin Miles. The message is timeless: As long as Jesus is by your side, you're never alone.
‘King of Kings’ by Hillsong Worship
This acoustic take on the contemporary Christian song surely delivers the hope this holiday ushers in.
‘Because He Lives’ by Carrie Underwood
Straight from her album "My Savior," Carrie Underwood’s inspiring song “Because He Lives” celebrates the hope and peace knowing that Christ rose again.
‘Were You There (When They Crucified My Lord)’ by Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash’s signature deep and calm voice shines through this gospel song, which tells the story of the crucifixion of Jesus.
‘I Will Rise’ by Chris Tomlin
In this song, Christian musician and Grammy winner, Chris Tomlin explores the depths of grief — and how we can follow Jesus' example in those moments of sorrow.
‘How Can It Be’ by Lauren Daigle
Off Lauren Daigle's Grammy-nominated debut album "How Can it Be," the song by the same name features soaring vocals and powerful lyrics about finding strength through faith.
‘Jesus Christ is Risen Today’ by King’s College Choir
Written in Latin in the 14th century and later set to a piece of music entitled “Easter Hymn,” this beloved song really comes to life with a full choir.
‘Forever’ by Kari Jobe
Here, contemporary Christian artist Kari Jobe tells the story of Easter, singing “Forever, He is glorified / Forever, He is lifted high/Forever, He is risen.”
‘Amazing Grace’ by Alan Jackson
Though "Amazing Grace" has been covered by countless artists over the years, Alan Jackson's version of this classic hymn is sure to fill your eyes with tears.
‘What a Friend We Have in Jesus’ by Aretha Franklin
The legendary Aretha Franklin brings down the house in this deeply-moving rendition of "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" recorded live back in 1972.
‘Still Rolling Stones’ by Lauren Daigle
Lauren Daigle's stirring contemporary anthem, "Still Rolling Stones," will have you rising up in soul and spirit this Easter Sunday.
Contemporary Songs for Easter
‘Heaven’ by Los Lonely Boys
This toe-tapping single from Los Lonely Boys went to No. 1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart back in 2004 and still remains a popular song today. With lyrics devoted to keeping the faith, it's a great addition to your Easter songs playlist.
‘Easter Parade’ by Bing Crosby
From Irving Berlin’s 1948 musical film “Easter Parade,” this perennial Easter favorite will make you want to grab your finest bonnet and join the parade, too.
‘Spring Vacation’ by The Beach Boys
This upbeat Beach Boys tune is exactly what you need to celebrate the arrival of spring. With lyrics that pay homage to having fun in the sunshine, you’ll be tapping your toes and enjoying this feel-good tune not only on Easter, but all season long.
‘April Come She Will’ by Simon & Garfunkel
This melancholic acoustic song by Simon & Garfunkel is a sweet ode to the first full month of the spring with all its talk of flowing streams, swelled by rain, as well as an homage to the rest of the seasons of the year.
‘When You Believe’ by Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston
Written for the film “The Prince of Egypt,” the duet by superstars Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston leaves you longing for more. The song, which won an Oscar in 1999, reminds us all that there can miracles when we believe.
‘Place in This World’ by Michael W. Smith
Michael W. Smith’s “Place in This World” went all the way to No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 back in the early 1990s. Its uplifting lyrics and inspirational message about finding hope through faith makes this song a must-add to your Easter playlist.
‘Here Comes the Sun’ by The Beatles
Spring has sprung! What would those first warm days of the season be without this classic Beatles song about daybreak? Here comes the sun, doo-doo, and it’s alright.
‘Hands’ by Jewel
This folksy ballad captures the spirit of the holiday with the power of hope, kindness and prayer. Jewel urges us all to use faith to change the world in a positive way.
‘I Look to You’ by Whitney Houston
This single off Whitney Houston’s seventh and final studio album touches on the importance of finding hope in the midst of desperation — something that’s important on Easter and every day.
Classical Songs for Easter
‘La Primavera (Spring)’ by Antonio Vivaldi
The moment you hear the opening notes of Vivaldi’s classic “La Primavera,” you’ll recognize it as one of the most time-honored pieces of classical music ever written. An ode to spring, you’re sure to feel inspired with this selection on your Easter songs playlist.
‘Reflection’ by George Winston
Released in 1982, this timeless George Winston classic evokes feelings of renewal and rebirth. Aptly titled “Reflection,” this quiet piano solo is the perfect accompaniment to you Easter brunch or dinner.
‘Spring Song’ by Mendelssohn
Easter means that spring has officially arrived. Celebrate the return of warmer days, green grass and sunshine with this classical Mendelssohn piece that’s fittingly titled “Spring Song.”
‘The Heart’s Cry’ by Bill Whelan
This enduring song from Bill Whelan’s 2005 smash hit “Riverdance,” is an ethereal tune that captures the essence of Easter with it soft lyrics that speak of mystery, shelter and figures rising.
Easter Songs for Kids
‘Here Comes Peter Cottontail’ by The Kiboomers
The youngest members of your crew will love this Easter classic about Peter Cottontail delivering colored eggs, jelly beans, Easter bonnets and all sorts of happy delights. Preschoolers and adults alike will join in singing along as the Easter Bunny goes hippity, hoppity down the bunny trail.
‘Hot Cross Buns’ by Super Simple Songs
This melodic nursery rhyme celebrates an Easter brunch staple and will captivate everyone seated at the table — especially the little bunnies.
‘Going on an Easter Egg Hunt’ by The Kiboomers
What's Easter without a fun Easter egg hunt? The Kiboomers sing all about it in this ditty especially for preschoolers.
‘The Easter Bunny Bop’ by Bounce Patrol
For the littlest ones in your life, there’s “The Easter Bunny Bop,” a charming, toe-tapping tribute to everyone’s favorite egg-delivering rabbit. Yep, the Easter Bunny. Bop, bop, bop!
'Sonny the Bunny' by Gene Autry
Gene Autry, the same fella that brought you the time-honored “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” sings this 1951 toe-tapper about Sonny, a funny Easter Bunny with floppy ears and a cute button nose.
