Memorial Playlist
Direct links & explanations to the music that was selected by Ellen for her Memorial & Celebration of Life on Tuesday 03 June, 2025.
Aretha Franklin
Respect
Song Selection (in Ellen's words):
I love this song. The message is so important. Respect is everything to me - because it sees past the surface and into the heart. True character isn’t defined by skin colour, gender, or who someone loves. It’s defined by how we treat each other, especially when no one’s watching. In a world full of differences, respect is what reminds us we’re all worthy, we’re all human, and we all matter.
Michael Kiwanuka
Cold Little Heart
Song Selection (in Ellen's words):
My music tastes are broad, I just love music and the emotions that they bring. I have long loved the artists and songs from the 60s and 70s Black American Soul, Blues and Jazz. As I got older these songs stay deep in my heart, but have also added French Chansons, Bluesy-kind of jazz, and classical music from the romantic period. More recently Siska has introduced me to a new kind of music that touches on so many of my favourite genres but with a modern twist. Music has always deeply connected me to people, experiences, places and emotions. This song particularly is one that connects me on an even deeper level to my daughter Siska and will continue to connect us forever.
The Righteous Brothers
Unchained Melody
Song Selection (in Ellen's words):
This is my sisters favourite piece of music. The first time I heard it, we were together and Gudrun fell in love with the song and together we played it until it drove everyone crazy. It is still one of my favourites and I always feel close to my sister when I hear it.
Ball of Confusion (That's What The World Is Today)
The Temptations
Song Selection (in Ellen's words):
This is a profoundly important song that I loved, as well as characterizing my ethics and beliefs for equality & equity, humanity and abolishing all forms of racism and exclusion. Click on image to play video
You'll Never Walk Alone
Elvis Presley
Song Selection (in Ellen's words):
This song is for my daughters – Siska & Nadja, but also for my Nieces – Nina and Lena. From the second they were born they stole my whole heart and soul. We are all so deeply connected that not even death will separate us. I love you more than words can express. Click on image to play video.
Ralph Vaughan Williams
The Lark Ascending
Song Selection (in Ellen's words):
I leave you with this song that elicits this message from me to you: Life is tumultuous and uncertain. But for those that can see beyond the uncertainty, there is peace. Rise above the tumultuous nature of life, and find your peace.
End of Memorial "Refreshments" Song Selection
Concerto No. 5 in E-Flat Major, Op. 73 "Emperor" Ludwig van Beethoven
Rest Michael Kiwanuka
Sometimes I feel Like A Motherless Child Jazmine Sullivan
Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone Bill Withers
Waiting - Demo Amber Mark
Rain The Teskey Brothers
I'd Rather Go Blind Etta James
Adagio for Strings, Op. 11 Samual Barber
Blue in Green Miles Davis
Song Selection (in Ellen's words):
This is a selection of some of my favorite songs that have been instrumental in my life. Be that to simply disconnect from the world and be transported to another, or to feel an emotion and close to those that the music reminds me of, or even to provide strength and solace and happiness in times when I have needed this. I hope you also can use the music throughout my Celebration of Life Ceremony to feel connected to me, forever. Watch the video here as you listen to this playlist!