Reggae funeral songs: 7 sad reggae songs about death and grief
Are you looking for a reggae song to play at a loved one's funeral? Explore 7 sad, bittersweet and hopeful tunes from the reggae greats.
When a loved one dies, music can play a big role in mourning, grieving and celebrating their life. That's one reason why music is often such an important feature of funerals.
At a funeral, music can stir emotions, bring the congregation closer together and reflect the personality of the person who has died. It can be joyous, sorrowful or bittersweet.
If you're arranging a funeral for a lover of reggae music, you may not feel confident about choosing a song. That's why we've put together this guide to 10 sad reggae songs about death and grief.
Reggae is closely linked with Rastafarianism – and Rastafarian funerals often feature joyful, celebratory music. So, we included some more hopeful, joyful and uplifting tracks, too.
When choosing music for a funeral, the most important thing to remember is that there are rarely ever right or wrong choices. As long as the music fits the person who died and is allowed by the venue, it's a suitable choice.
So, without further ado, here are seven reggae funeral songs. We hope it helps you put together a service that feels right for the person who has died.
Seven reggae songs that are suitable for a funeral
1. Cornel Campbell: "No Man's Land"
Cornel Campbell came to fame on the back of his Studio One recordings in the late 1960s. This track from 1976 showcases his distinctive falsetto.
Despite its upbeat feel, the song is bittersweet. The singer feels lost in no man's land and yearns for his mother to guide him:
Oh mother, I wish you were around
To see how your son is bouncin′ around
Used like a tool and then refused
Oh mother, I wish you were around
2. Gregory Isaacs: "Sad To Know (You're Leaving)"
Described by the New York Times as "the most exquisite vocalist in reggae", Gregory Isaacs is perhaps most famous for his 1982 hit "Night Nurse".
In "Sad To Know (You're Leaving)" he reflects on the departure of a loved one:
Sad to know that you're leaving
Even though it's kinda grieving
Each chorus, however, ends on a note of hope. First, "But I know that you'll return real soon" and secondly, "But Jah will guide you out and coming in".
3. Toots and the Maytals: "True Love is Hard to Find"
You can't tell the story of reggae without mentioning the ska and rocksteady group Toots and the Maytals. After all, it was their 1968 single "Do the Reggay" that introduced the word "reggae" to the world and gave the genre its name.
While "True Love is Hard to Find" focuses on romantic love, its rawly emotional vocals and sentimental refrain make it ideal for funerals:
And glory fills my heart with joy from heaven
With love for you
Darlin', I always think of you
Always have my arms filled with love for you
'Cause you know that
True love is hard to find
4. Peter Tosh: "Burial"
Born in Petersfield, Jamaica, Peter Tosh was a core member of The Wailers before embarking on a successful solo career.
His 1975 track "Burial" is not about an actual funeral. Instead, it focuses on anti-establishment sentiments, imploring listeners to "Let the dead bury the dead".
With its minor-key defiance, "Burial" is a track that could be the perfect choice for the funeral of a rebel – or simply of someone who loves that classic '70s reggae sound.
5. Jimmy Cliff: "Many Rivers to Cross"
Jimmy Cliff is one of the main reasons reggae has an international audience, and "Many Rivers to Cross" is one of his most iconic songs.
Opening with a church organ, the song explores feelings of isolation, loneliness and despair:
Many rivers to cross
But I can't seem to find my way over
Wandering, I am lost
As I travel along White Cliffs of Dover
As the song builds, these notes of despair give way to an emotive vocal that communicates strength, pride and willpower.
6. Yabby You: "Conquering Lion"
Born Vivian Neville Jackson, Yabby You was a singer and producer who came to fame in the early 1970s.
His music often explored his Rastafarian beliefs, starting with this, his debut single:
For He is the King of Kings
The Lord of Lords
The Conquering Lion of Judah
With its warm vintage sound and superb musicianship, "Conquering Lion" is a stern yet uplifting choice for a Rastafarian funeral.
7. Bob Marley: "Three Little Birds"
Bob Marley is a reggae artist who needs no introduction. Many of his songs are popular at funerals, from the spiritual warfare of "Redemption Song" to the unifying message of "One Love".
We've decided, however, to end on an uplifting note with his 1977 hit single "Three Little Birds".
The birds in question land on the singer's doorstep, "Singin' sweet songs / Of melodies pure and true". The bird song reassures and consoles – two things that many grieving people are looking for:
Singing' don't worry
About a thing
Cause every little thing
Gonna be alright
Akshardham Funeral Directors is an independent London funeral home. We work with people from all faiths and walks of life and provide a compassionate listening ear to help you plan a fitting funeral. Follow our blog for more funeral ideas and planning guides.
