Though not traditionally associated with funeral music, One More Day by Diamond Rio fits beautifully as mourners reflect upon loved ones who have passed. The lyrics describe yearning for someone lost and can provide comforting solace for mourners.
His Eye Is on the Sparrow is an iconic funeral song among Rastafarians who view Haile Selassie as their Lord or Jah, offering hope of reunion in paradise after death.
Get Lifted by Tony Sway
Tony Sway’s song Get Lifted features an atmospheric instrumental track that is ideal for funeral services. This R&B-reggae number will bring peace to any funeral procession while simultaneously serving as an opening song at memorial services.
Many reggae songs contain lyrics that address heartbreak and loss, making them particularly suitable for funeral services as they may speak of someone departed and the longing to see them again. Many include an instrumental section such as piano or drums.
While classic songs remain timeless and appropriate for every occasion, there is also plenty of other songs you could choose from. If your loved one enjoyed Jamaican music, Kingston Town by Beres Hammond could make for an excellent option; it tells a beautiful love story about a lover leaving but hoping they will come back despite all odds – reminding those far away they remain in our hearts even if we cannot physically be together.
Prayer by D’Angelo
Prayer marks an impressive return from D’Angelo, whom music critic Robert Christgau dubbed “R&B Jesus.” It’s a show of pure soul music with gospel undertones that unmask his deep faith. Produced using old and new production methods to provide retro swank with poignant lyrics; Prayer also stands as a jazz fusion manifesto displaying influences such as Prince, Isley Brothers and Sly Stone.
D’Angelo’s fourteen-year wait since 2000’s Voodoo to release of Black Messiah this week shows no sign of fatigue; his fearless approach to genre boundaries can be seen both in stately Joe Pass tributes like “Sugah Daddy” and the big band funk of “1000 Deaths”.
But he also knows how to get down in a club, as evidenced by tracks such as ‘Playa Playa’ with its bass-soaked thump and semi-adept basketball metaphors, or Spanish Joint with its genre-blending adaptation of Roy Hargrove’s trumpet lines and Giovanni Hidalgo’s dynamic congas.
Sparrow by Emeli Sande
Emeli Sande is an artist renowned for creating music with a truly original sound, turning a simple tune into something extraordinary and unforgettable. As an accomplished singer-songwriter whose talent spans genres such as pop, R&B, hip-hop, rap, soul and beyond; her songs often serve as memorial services or celebrate life events beautifully.
Sparrow is an uplifting and encouraging song that urges listeners to live their lives with gusto and courage. The lyrics depict pursuing dreams and taking over the world with gusto while overcoming obstacles and spreading love wherever you go.
Reggae music exudes hope and compassion, making it the ideal selection for funeral and memorial services. Additionally, its free-thinker status makes it suitable to honor someone who was an influential force. If you want something that will give your guests hope and encouragement during this difficult time, explore Wynk Music’s selection of funeral reggae songs.
Freddie’s Dead by Curtis Mayfield
Curtis Mayfield, lead singer and songwriter for The Impressions, wasn’t particularly enthusiastic about Gordon Parks’ no budget ghetto gangster film Super Fly; however, he knew that by writing aggressive and provocative lyrics over really forceful funk grooves he could make the film his own and move in a positive direction.
Fat Freddie’s Dead laments Fat Freddie, a character from the film who is run over by a car. Its melody is driven by bass and drum instrumentation augmented with tropical percussion; supported by wah-wah guitars and melancholic string instrumentation to create a mournful atmosphere.
Mayfield’s musical contribution to the film went far beyond its cinematic counterpart and became an influential collection of music in its own right, inspiring a whole generation of artists, such as Prince and Kendrick Lamar. Unfortunately, Mayfield died due to paralyzing injuries shortly thereafter but his legacy lives on today.
Ain’t No Sunshine by Bill Withers
Ain’t No Sunshine is an emotive ballad about missing someone close. The narrator laments how life hasn’t been the same without his loved one and reminds us all how vital relationships are in our lives.
Bill Withers wrote the classic song Ain’t No Sunshine in 1971 while in Los Angeles after leaving the Navy and moving there from Hawaii. While working at a factory making toilets for 747 planes, he found time to play guitar during his shifts between shifts by purchasing it at a pawn shop pawnshop pawnshop pawnshop; eventually his demo tape caught Clarence Avant’s attention who signed him to Sussex Records with Booker T Jones and Donald “Duck” Dunn joining on recorded albums that included hit single Ain’t No Sunshine as part of their album featuring those artists as Booker T Jones and Duck Dunn included Ain’t No Sunshine as one hit single from that album!
Over time, this song has been covered by various artists; most notably Rockmelons with Deni Hines reaching number five in Australia with their version. Other acts including Bob Dylan, Des’ree and Ladysmith Black Mambazo have recorded versions of it; its timeless composition ensures everyone can appreciate it regardless of age or background.
Clouds by Chaka Khan
This song is the ideal way to lift yourself above the clouds. The lyrics are soothing and dreamlike, while its music provides a gentle backdrop. It truly stands out among songs about clouds.
Chaka Khan is an iconic musician renowned for her unforgettable soulful voice and engaging stage presence. Additionally, she’s an activist and philanthropist whose timeless music has impacted numerous artists.
“Clouds” by American R&B/funk singer-songwriter Chaka Khan was released by Warner Bros in 1978 as her debut major crossover hit and top 5 chart success in the United States. Written specifically for Chaka by Ashford & Simpson.
This song is an emotive metaphor for falling in love. The gorgeous track by Oasis in 2002 makes for an excellent mood lifter; featured on their album “Heathen Chemistry”. You won’t want to stop listening! This magical tune will be sure to lift spirits.
Holy Ghost by The Bar-Kays
Holy Ghost by The Bar-Kays is an unforgettable funk song perfect for playing at funerals of loved ones who had an intense romantic attachment. Its lyrics depict how strong an attachment the narrator feels toward his woman; their love feels almost spiritual or sexual in nature, and many can relate to its message of deep, intense romance.
Bill Withers’ Ain’t No Sunshine song can serve as an inspiring and moving funeral tribute, providing hope even in times of sadness and uncertainty. Even at funerals where everything seems hopeless, music can provide hope that there is always hope ahead.
If you want to honor someone with an adventurous soul, then this song will do. It celebrates living in the moment and appreciating life’s little pleasures with an energetic reggae melody that will get everyone up dancing.
Satta Massagana by UB40
UB40 is one of the first acts that come to mind when most people think of reggae music, being a British band with over 50 hits on the UK Singles Chart. While their songs may not be as emotional, such as this song that speaks about peace and compassion; perfect for funeral services.
311 stands as one of the most influential acts that have helped transform reggae music. Their unique blend of rock and reggae has led them to create hit after hit – including this unforgettable beach party anthem – further expanding the genre’s reach outside Jamaica.
Peter Tosh has become one of the names most associated with reggae music’s roots, writing many anthems with The Wailers that helped define its sound. One song specifically pays homage to Marcus Garvey’s teachings while simultaneously being an inspiring rallying call for black empowerment and pride – it was even mentioned by Joe Strummer during a Clash song called Jimmy Jazz!