37 R&B Funeral Songs

“Fix You” by Coldplay

Song Year: 2005

Coldplay's “Fix You” is an amazing depiction of grief and despair. The song is popular in funerals for its gloomy sound and passionate lyrics. “Fix You” is about genuine love, supporting someone in need, and overcoming mistakes.

It's a tune you can feature in your loved one's funeral playlist or dedicate to a bereaved loved one to let them know you will always stand with them, even in tough times.

“Sweet Memories” by Ray Charles

Song Year: 1970

“Sweet Memories” is a track about reminiscing about a departed loved one instead of saying goodbye. The lyrics depict a lover who delighted the narrator, but her memories now make him melancholy.

He envisions his long-lost sweetheart visiting him and switching on his lights, which could symbolize bringing back memories. It's a great tune to play at the funeral of your female loved one.

“Like You'll Never See Me Again” by Alicia Keys

Song Year: 2007

The title is self-explanatory. This song is about living each moment as if it were the last. It's a smoochy, sensuous soul song crafted around a subtle, Oriental-sounding piano theme that allows Keys to showcase her tremendous vocals.

Alicia reminds listeners that they never know when it's time to bid goodbye to their loved ones, so they must act as though every kiss is their last.

“Footprints in the Sand” by Leona Lewis

Song Year: 2007

“Footprints in the Sand” goes deeper than just walking on the beach. The title symbolizes the unseen footprints our loved ones imprint in our hearts and reminds listeners to continue cherishing them, even after they depart.

This ballad allows Leona to demonstrate her remarkable vocal range, backed by choir background vocals, giving the song a religious vibe.

“God Is Love” by Marvin Gaye

Song Year: 1971

Marvin Gaye isn't known for gospel tracks, but in 1971, he released one of the most inspiring gospel tunes based on his faith journey. This song brings Marvin's signature soul melodies into R&B, delivering intricate harmonies, cutting-edge production, and a soothing melody.

The devotional ballad is about God's promises and is an excellent choice for a religious funeral, offering solace and hope to those left behind.

“Really Gonna Miss You” by Smokey Robinson

Song Year: 2005

There is no greater sorrow than the loss of a valued confidant. This smooth R&B song addresses the special agony of a friend's death. Smokey Robinson's track, “Really Gonna Miss

You,” expresses his commitment to always remember and adore his buddy. It's a lovely memorial to include at any funeral service, especially if you lose a best friend.

“River” by Leon Bridges

Song Year: 2015

“River” is a religious ballad blending gospel and R&B elements – a wonderful soulful tune with soft guitar and percussion sprucing the soothing vocals. The song adapts the classic spiritual “Down to The River to Pray.”

It's a great choice for a Christian funeral since it represents the religion's hope for an afterlife. Even though the departed loved one wasn't religious, “River” is a lovely yet hopeful song that may be a fitting tribute.

“Exhale” by Sabrina Carpenter

Song Year: 2019

Popular for her flawless bangers, Sabrina threw her fans a curveball with her emotional track, “Exhale.” The emotional tune nicely captures the sense of being burdened by commitments.

While it isn't expressly about the demise of a loved one, “Exhale” captures the unexpected feeling of having to face life without the people you previously looked up to.

“See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa Featuring Charlie Puth

Song Year: 2015

Rap meets R&B in this beautiful tribute hit by Wiz Khalifa & Charlie Puth. The song was penned in memory of departed actor Paul Walker and was included in the 2015 film, “Fast And Furious 7.” The lyrics are about how lonely life is without a late friend.

Also, the song shows how much the singer longs to be together with the departed loved one again. The song is heartrendingly lovely and hits listeners with several layers of emotional intensity.

“I'll Be Missing You” by Puff Daddy & Faith Evans

Song Year: 1997

“I'll Be Missing You” is another match made in heaven between rap and R&B. The song is a tribute to Puff's friend and mentor, Notorious BIG, who'd been murdered in a gang-related feud. This anthem explores themes around death, including the hope for an afterlife.

Although “I'll Be Missing You” features an upbeat production, the lyrics are particularly heartbreaking since they address the demise of a friend.

“Stormy Weather” by Etta James

Song Year: 1960

“Stormy Weather,” softly wafting in Etta James' melodic voice, has meaningful lyrics that you may identify with at a funeral for a fallen loved one. This song is about the narrator missing her partner as they're no longer together.

While it might be due to a breakup, it could also be due to his death. The lyrics characterize her mood and feelings as gloomy, gray days.

“That's How Strong My Love Is” by Otis Redding

Song Year: 1965

Nothing beats an emotional soul-inspired classic R&B from the '60s, and Otis understood this assignment in this 1965 track. The heartfelt tune employs nature to showcase how strong the narrator's love is. It's a lovely and eloquent tribute to a loved one who will be remembered long after they're gone.