Taps began during the American Civil War in 1862. General Daniel Butterfield, a Union officer, felt that the standard bugle call to end the day was too harsh and lacked feeling.

He worked with his brigade bugler, Oliver Willcox Norton, to write a softer and more thoughtful version. That new melody became what we now know as Taps.

Initially, it was used only to signal lights out. However, it was soon played during a funeral when no band was available. The sound fit the mood so well that others followed the example.

About the Song

Few musical phrases carry the weight of national grief and personal remembrance like Taps, the solemn bugle call often heard in quiet moments of tribute.

Just 24 notes long, it holds powerful meaning, more than sound. It is a symbol of respect, loss, and service.

Even at funerals, memorials, or flag ceremonies, Taps speaks silently, yet says everything.

Three Versions of Taps Lyrics

Taps Lyrics Version: 1

Day is done, gone the sun,
From the hills, from the lake, from the skies.
All is well, safely rest,
God is nigh.

Go to sleep, peaceful sleep, may the soldier
or sailor, God keep.
On the land or the deep, Safe in sleep.

Love, good night, must thou go,
when the day, and the night
need thee so?
All is well. Speedeth all To their rest.

Fades the light;
And afar Goeth day,
And the stars Shineth bright,
Fare thee well;
Day has gone, night is on.

Thanks and praise, for our days,
‘Neath the sun, Neath the stars, ‘Neath the sky,
As we go, this we know, God is nigh.

Taps Lyrics Version: 2

Day is done, gone the sun,
From the lake, from the hills, from the sky;
All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.

Fading light, dims the sight,
And a star gems the sky, gleaming bright.
From afar, drawing nigh, falls the night.

Thanks and praise, for our days,
‘Neath the sun, ‘neath the stars, neath the sky;
As we go, this we know, God is nigh.

Sun has set, shadows come,
Time has fled, Scouts must go to their beds
Always true to the promise that they made.

While the light fades from sight,
And the stars gleaming rays softly send,
To thy hands we our souls, Lord, commend.

Taps Lyrics Version: 3

Day is done, gone the sun
From the lakes, from the hills, from the sky
All is well, safely rest
God is nigh

Fading light dims the sight
And a star gems the sky, gleaming bright
From afar, drawing near
Falls the night

Thanks and praise for our days
Neath the sun, neath the stars, neath the sky
As we go, this we know
God is nigh

Similar Songs Like Taps

While unique in tone and use, Taps shares its purpose and mood with several other ceremonial pieces. Here are some similar songs to Taps:

• Adagio for Strings: Begins with slow, rising strings that build a deep sense of sadness and respect. Often used in funerals and national memorials.
• Going Home: Opens softly with a peaceful melody. The song gives a gentle sense of rest and returning after life’s long journey.
• The Last Post: Starts with sharp, steady bugle notes. It’s played to honor fallen soldiers and mark the end of duty.
• Amazing Grace: Begins with a quiet, steady voice. This hymn brings comfort, peace, and hope during times of grief and reflection.

Similar Songwriters Like Daniel Butterfield

Here are five composers and musicians who, like Daniel Butterfield, played a key role in shaping military, ceremonial, or patriotic music:

• John Philip Sousa
  Genre: Military marches and patriotic band music
  Top Albums: The Stars and Stripes Forever (1896), Semper Fidelis (1896)
• Kenneth J. Alford
  Genre: Military marches
  Top Albums: Colonel Bogey March (1914), Voice of the Guns (1916)
• Clifton Williams
  Genre: Concert and military band music
  Top Albums: Fanfare and Allegro (1956), The Ramparts (1950s)
• Joseph Willcox Jenkins
  Genre: American concert band music
  Top Albums: American Overture for Band (1951), Cumberland Gap Overture (1974)
• Francis Frank Johnson
  Genre: Patriotic and early American ceremonial music
  Top Albums: Philadelphia Fireman’s Quadrille (1838), New Railroad Gallop (1837)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Taps Played During Military Funeral Services Only?

It gives a quiet, respectful goodbye to honor the person who served.

Do All Military Groups Use the Same Tune?

Yes, every group uses the same notes for this call.

Do People Always Use a Bugle to Play Taps?

Bugles are best, but trumpets can be used as an alternative.