Celebrating a Life: Singing at a Life Celebration in Luton
Updated: Oct 7
Not every event I sing at is a wedding or a party. Sometimes, I'm asked to help a family celebrate the life of someone they've lost, in the way that person would have wanted.
Last September, I performed at a life celebration for Michelle's father at Riverside, The Venue 360 in Luton.
A Celebration, Not Just a Goodbye
Michelle's family wanted the evening to reflect who her dad was: a celebration, not just a farewell. I sang "You to me are everything" by the Real Thing a special song chosen by the family, and it brought everyone onto the dance floor. Moments like that mean a great deal to me. Music can hold space for grief and joy at the same time.
Michelle's dad loved Motown, so I sang and played the best in Motown and soul music.
The family chose to upgrade their package, so they didn't need to hire a DJ. I played music in between my sets.
Soul and Motown is my speciality, so it was a joy to sing and play it for Michelle's dad.
Choosing the Right Songs
Every family is different, and so is every celebration.
Before the evening, I talk with the family about the songs that meant the most to their loved one. I also ask what feels right for the day.
There is no wrong answer. Some families want songs to dance to. Some want something calmer and gentler.
I want you to feel looked after, so you can focus on being together.
What Michelle Said
"She performed at my Dad's funeral for us to give him the party he would have wanted to celebrate his life. She absolutely did that and so much more! She did her upmost for our family and has a beautiful voice."
Favourite moment: "Hollie performed a special song for our family and got us all up on the dance floor to start the night and it was absolutely amazing!"
If You're Planning a Life Celebration
If you're thinking about live music for a life celebration or memorial, I'd be honoured to help you create an evening that reflects the person you're celebrating.
This is a role I take great care with, and I'll work closely with your family to choose the right songs for the moment.
Comments