35 Easter songs to add to your Sunday brunch playlist

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Easter is nearly here and whatever you've got on the calendar to commemorate the holiday, don't forget to include music to help honor the occasion.

Falling on March 31, you may be planning to attend service, host brunch or dinner for loved ones or simply get outside to take advantage of the spring weather.

Whatever you settle on, these Easter songs are bound to take your celebration to the next level.

From inspirational and upbeat to traditional and faith-based, you'll find whatever you're looking for in the collection below.

Among these hymns of worship, Christian classics and contemporary pop tunes, you'll find songs like “Just a Closer Walk With Thee,” Judy Garland’s “Easter Parade,” “The Old Rugged Cross” by Alan Jackson and many more tried-and-true favorites.

Other featured artists in this Easter songs playlist include Carrie Underwood, Willie Nelson, Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Harry Connick Jr. and more.

In fact, this compilation has something for just about everyone in the family, including kids, who are sure to love Bounce Patrol's "The Easter Bunny Bop" and other favorites.

Press play to listen while dyeing eggs or to enjoy throughout your Easter gathering. Whatever you decide, these songs are sure to be the perfect soundtrack to all your Easter Sunday activities.

'Here Comes Peter Cottontail' by The Kiboomers

The littlest 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.

'My Savior' by Carrie Underwood and CeCe Winans

Carrie Underwood and gospel singer CeCe Winans bring down the house with this inspirational live performance of the traditional worship hymn "My Savior."

'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.

'Two Easter Sunday Sweethearts' by Vera Lynn

This old-timey tune by Vera Lynn will take you back to days of yore when lovers strolled along the promenade after church, dressed up in their finest Easter Sunday attire for all to see.

'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.

'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!

'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.

'The Heart's Cry' by Bill Whelan

This enduring song from Bill Whelan's 2005 smash hit "Riverdance," is a beautiful song that captures the essence of Easter with lyrics that talk of mystery, shelter and figures rising from the sea.

'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.

"Spring Song' by Mendelssohn

For many people, Easter means that spring has sprung. Celebrate the return of warmer days, green grass and sunshine with this classical Mendelssohn piece that's fittingly titled "Spring Song."

'Here Comes the Sun' by The Beatles

Since we're already on the subject of spring, 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.

'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.

‘Easter Parade’ by Judy Garland and Fred Astaire

Performed by Judy Garland and Fred Astaire in Irving Berlin’s 1948 musical film "Easter Parade," listening to this perennial Easter favorite will make you want to grab your finest bonnet and join the parade, too.

‘Amazing Grace’ by Aretha Franklin

Capturing the rebirth that the holiday symbolizes, "Amazing Grace" has been masterfully sung by the likes of Andrea Bocelli, Ray Charles, Celine Dion and Diana Ross. But it’s Aretha Franklin’s rendition of the spiritual anthem that made Oprah cry — and it’s destined to make you cry, too.

‘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 Eastertime 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.

‘Here Comes Peter Cottontail’ by Gene Autry

Written by Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins, the duo behind "Frosty the Snowman," the tune about the Easter Bunny “hoppin’ down the bunny trail” is bound to put a little spring in your step.

‘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.

‘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 your little bunnies.

‘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.

‘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.

‘In the Garden’ by Meryl Streep and Garrison Keillor

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 and Kari Jobe

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.

‘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 all the days to follow.

‘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.”

This article was originally published on TODAY.com