29 Hip Hop Funeral Songs

“Falling Over” by Kodak Black

Song Year: 2022

XXXTENTACION passed away in 2018, but his soul has never departed. Numerous artists whose lives the deceased rapper impacted continue to find new ways to honor him. Kodak Black, one of the individuals with whom X had the opportunity to collaborate with, paid tribute to the artist with his track “Falling Over.”

Although you’ll hardly hear Kodak mention XXXTENTACION’s name, he does let his heart bleed on this tune. When grieving, it’s common to feel as if a part of you dies with the deceased, which makes “Falling Over” an ideal funeral track.

“Dead & Gone” by M.O.P.

Song Year: 1996

Another popular rap funeral song is M.O.P.’s “Dead & Gone.” The song features on the rap duo’s 2nd studio album, Firing Squad. The song has a slightly upbeat tempo and inspirational lyrics that are relatable to anybody who’s mourning.

The tune provides some consolation by portraying a better place in the afterlife, where we’ll meet our departed companions. However, its stark description of a funeral makes it an appropriately somber song for the occasion.

“Flowers for the Dead” by Cuban Link

Song Year: 2000

“Flowers for the Dead” is a tribute by Cuban Link to his childhood friend, Big Pun. Pun died from a cardiac arrest caused by respiratory failure. As evident in the lyrics, this tragedy caused much pain to Cuban, but he’s still courageous enough to move and carry on his deceased friend’s legacy.

This song featured on Link’s debut studio album 24-K. Interestingly, it’s one of the most commercially successful songs Cuban has ever produced, peaking at #2 on the US Rap Chart. For a funeral tune that embodies grief and acceptance, “Flowers For The Dead” is a great selection.

“Eulogy” by Gang Starr

Song Year: 2003

“Eulogy” is a sad song featured on Gang Starr’s 6th album, The Ownerz. In the song, Guru officiates at a hip-hop funeral. Premo concludes the ceremony by highlighting a list of departed notables and praying for them to find peace in heaven.

This track displays Gangstarr’s rich sound but also contains heartful lyrics.

“Live in the Sky” by T.I. ft. Jamie Foxx

Song Year: 2006

“Live in the Sky” is the third and last track from T.I.’s fourth studio album, King. This rap and R&B tune incorporates the gentle vocals of American actor Jamie Foxx. The heartful lyrics are a tribute to the artist’s deceased loved ones, particularly T.I.’s late friend, Philant Johnson.

This upbeat song is about the afterlife transition to heaven. T.I.’s view of the sky as a new residence is consoling to the bereaved. There’s optimism and faith in the lyrics of an eventual reunion with deceased loved ones, making it a great funeral song.

“Gone Too Soon” by Diaz Brothers

Song Year: 2010

Continuing the rap tradition of vulnerability, Diaz Brothers’ “Gone Too Soon” is another song to consider while preparing for a loved one’s funeral. Rappers Doo Wop and Tony Touch deliver touching lyrics as a tribute to their close friend, Guru.

If you’re struggling to come to terms with the untimely passing of a loved one, this track can be soothing and comforting. You’ll find solace in the gentle drums and Soni’s smooth melody.

“Dead Homiez” by Ice Cube

Song Year: 1990

“Dead Homiez” is one of Ice Cube’s classics, where he spills a little booze for all his fallen homies. The tune focuses on the death, violence, and socioeconomic issues in communities, while Cube pays homage to all those killed in gang violence.

If you’ve lost a friend to such tragedy, this tune’s lyrics will resonate with you.

“The Message” by Dr. Dre

Song Year: 1999

Dre is renowned for his club bangers and party anthems. However, the murder of his brother while he was still on the road with N.W.A. inspired him to pen a tribute song. Although Dre doesn’t hold the bragging rights for writing this song, “The Message” reflects anger and sadness, typical feelings one experiences during grief.

Dre addresses God in the song, questioning His reasons for taking Tyree away. It’s a great funeral song to play when you feel lost in God’s faith because of your tragedy, but also a great way to celebrate the life they lived.

“Survivors Guilt” by Joey Bada$$

Song Year: 2022

Joey Bada$$ pays tribute to two of his deceased cousins, including artist Capital Steez, on “Survivors Guilt.” Besides rapping about their misfortunes, Joey also raps about their shared happy moments.

Although you’re likely accustomed to listening to a furious Joey, he sounds somber in this song, which matches the gloomy production.

Best Hip Hop Funeral Songs, Final Thoughts

Emotions are strongly connected to music. Music can be quite therapeutic if you’re dealing with the tragedy of losing a loved one. In this respect, rappers haven’t been shy in portraying their emotions over the years, as evident in these rap funeral songs.

Whether you’re grieving or are related to somebody who is, you’ll find these hip-hop funeral songs to be emotionally intense and consoling.