23 Black Funeral Songs

First of all, I’m sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. If you, or they, wanted black funeral songs specifically, today I’ll share some of the best with you. Read on below to see them, all of which are performed by African American or black brothers and sisters.

1.“Going Up Yonder” by Walter Hawkins

Song Year: 1975

One of the most encouraging songs to be played at a black funeral is one by Walter and Tramaine Hawkins. For the loved one that followed Jesus, the family can be comforted and assured that their loved one is in a better place – they have gone up yonder, which means heaven.

They are with God, at peace, and in a place of love and comfort. The tempo is upbeat, and the lyrics are comforting. This song will lift everyone's spirits. The Hawkins is one of the best contemporary gospel singers known in the black community.

2.”Soon and Very Soon” by Andrae Crouch

Song Year: 1976

Andrae Crouch's gospel music has expanded across the globe. He is one of the preeminent gospel singers, and his songs have been played and sung at funerals, specifically black funerals, for years. This song by Andrae Crouch is one of the classic gospel songs for black funerals.

Soon and very soon is comforting and encouraging for anyone who has lost a loved one who loved God. They are now with the king they loved, and soon and very soon, we all will be with the king enjoying His presence and fellowship with others. So, despite the grief and the mourning, we can look up and look forward. Separation won't last forever.

3.“Jesus Promised Me a Home Over There” by Jennifer Hudson

Song Year: 2008

Jennifer Hudson made her debut on American Idol with this song. The song is passionate, spiritual, and uplifting. Many who followed Christ and grew up in church know just what this song means.

It's Jesus' promise in the Bible that He will leave, but part of His mission is to set up places or homes for His followers in heaven when life here is over.

That's the promise we believe, and this song sings of that comforting promise that assures us that all is well with our loved ones who followed Jesus. Your loved ones are in a better place and living in a better home. The song also encourages those who are left behind but also love God.

 4.“Oh, I Want To See Him” by R.H. Cornelius

Song Year:

Although written many years ago, this popular hymn is a favorite among black funeral songs. The song has been sung by many at funerals. The words are beautiful, and the meaning is deep.

For followers of Christ, we finally see His face and the joy that comes with that. The song speaks of entering a glorious time once one has passed on from this life.

No need to be sorrowful or walk around downtrodden. Your loved one is with God and enjoying every minute of it. For them, the cares of this life are past, and they're home at last. For those left, we can be encouraged and lift our heads, knowing something better waits for us.

5. “Take Me To The King” by Tamela Mann

Song Year: 2012

This contemporary song is a favorite of many. Tamela Mann's vocals are strong, and the words are powerful. The song starts slow and explodes into joyful praise of seeing the king – God.

It's uplifting and comforting. It speaks of frustrations experienced in life and finally realizing all that's necessary is being in God's presence and enjoying Him forever.

6. “Stand” by Donnie McClurkin

Song Year: 1996

This song by one of Gospel's contemporary artists will encourage and uplift anyone facing the death of a loved one. How do you handle grief, pain, disappointment, and broken hearts – just stand. Stand firm in your faith in God.

Stand firm because your loved one is in a better place. Stand firm. Don't turn and run. Don't hide, be strong. It's okay to cry. It's okay to stumble but don't fall. Don't stay down but get up and stand. This is one of the more encouraging and comforting songs played at a funeral.

7. “Amazing Grace” by John Newton

Song Year: 1779

John Newton wrote this song after a horrible experience of being lost at sea. Newton, who was a slave owner, was a troubled man who had a near-death experience on the sea, which turned his life completely around.

After praying to God, Newton became a different man. Years later, he penned what many would call the most famous hymn ever. He wrote this amazing song after a scripture in the Bible. It was initially named something else, but over the years became Amazing Grace.

The lyrics are heart-wrenching, deep, and convincing. The song has been remade and sung by multiple artists and churches. It is uplifting, inspiring, and comforting for those who have lost a loved one. This song is one of the most popular songs played at funerals. It's usually played before or after but can be played anytime.

8. “When I See Jesus” by Douglas Miller

Song Year: 1981

This song will uplift everyone attending a funeral, especially a black funeral. No matter what happens in this life, if we trust in Jesus and live right, we will see eternal life. Douglas Miller's vocals will move your spirit and encourage you.

When I see Jesus, everything will be right. All our troubles will be over. You don't have to worry about your loved one who lived for God – everything is alright.

9. “Safe In His Arms” by Rev. Milton Brunson & The Thompson Community Singers

Song Year: 1986

What a beautiful song. It will stir the souls of all who attend a funeral. The lyrics are encouraging and inspiring for any funeral. Your loved one is safe in his arms and resting peacefully.

It's meaningful and insightful. The vocals and tempo fit any funeral. It tells us there is hope, and we can move forward without worrying about our loved ones.

10. “I Shall Wear A Crown” by Minister Thomas Whitfield

Song Year: 1973

When your loved one has passed, that's not the end. If they lived faithfully for God, they would wear a crown. They shall be rewarded for a life well lived in Christ. They now see the face of the One they lived for,  and all is well.

This song is played at many black funerals. It's pretty much a staple funeral song with soul-stirring and uplifting lyrics. It's inspiring for those left behind, reminding them that they have something to look forward to.

11. “Walk Around Heaven” by Patti LaBelle

Song Year: 2011

Another soul-stirring song tailored and made for a black funeral, Patti Labelle sings this song with power only way Patti Labelle can do it. A gospel song mixed with some R&B/Soul will make this a favorite among those who attend the funeral.

12. “I Can Only Imagine” by Tamela Mann

Song Year: 2001

Originally sung by the gospel group MercyMe, Tamela Mann puts her soulful spin on this beautiful and inspiring song. The song will flood your mind with memories of your loved one, but that's okay. The lyrics are deep and insightful.

We often wonder what our loved ones that have passed on are doing. The song helps us get a small glimpse of the happiness and peace they are experiencing. They're enjoying themselves forever, surrounded by the love of God.