If religious music is not played, then often it's the favorite music of the deceased person. Depending on the style and format of the funeral, the music can be of a wide variety. Funerals can be adapted to include almost any variety of music. Music is the one common thread that unites almost all of humanity. From the United States to the most primitive of cultures, almost everyone has some form of music.
Music is and can be the mood of life.
It expresses almost every emotion, including sorrow, celebration and everything in between. This depends on the beliefs of the deceased, the type of funeral being conducted, and the wishes of the deceased and the remaining family and friends. While some would insist upon the somber and often sad religious tunes, other demand the celebratory impact of a Dixie-Land tune. This movement seems to be lead by the age group 40-60 otherwise called the Baby Boomer Generation. It would be interesting to know if this is a world-wide trend.