New Orleans Jazz Funeral for tuba player Kerwin James

[@TownleysMusic]

July 2024 still listening

[@CikCycles]

The name of the song is "Just A Closer Walk With Thee" . You might have a hard time finding this version because its all improvised.

[@VanKlaunch]

This is beautiful. It's almost as if death is defeated by the shear celebration of a life.

[@phumeoli]

Oh Hallelujah!

[@NickC-Ohio]

Very well said. I think you're right.

[@Poop-nu1so]

If you're going out, this would be the way. I'm not from New Orleans, but this is the way it should be done, celebrating the life that was.

[@bugsycline3798]

dear poop. You gotta be loved by many to get this. If you haven't already, start working on being as kind as you can to every one and I promise you, this will happen for you. The only down side, you won't get to see it :(

[@maxfrankow1238]

Celebrating what was and what comes next. 😀

[@spookyvegan1402]

That’s right 😌❤️❤️❤️

[@streetcarjay]

Here here brother

[@deanworkman1638]

oh yeah !!!!

[@declanewbank]

Damn, I can’t remember the last time I teared up watching the funeral of someone I never knew, thousands of miles away. What a beautiful way to go.

[@pong224]

This is a youtube gem.

[@TommySawtooth]

To this day in 2024

[@randyscott3386]

One of the greatest youtube videos of all time !

[@FunDir79]

I have been a Funeal Director in the midwest for 23 years. I wish before I take "my last ride" that I get to witness a ceremony such as this. This has to be the most dignified and wonderful celebration I have ever witnessed !

[@athenalong]

The rocking of the casket is such a sweet gesture. I love that.

[@MikeC32958]

Last strut... may his soul be in heaven

[@hollylynn2486]

Makes me want to pick my old tenor sax back up so I can help send someone Home with joy instead of tears.

[@KarenYvonne40]

Go ahead then come play at my funeral for me

[@pcarney72]

Tears of joy possibly. I find it so incredibly moving. THAT is how you see a life off!

[@jonathanellison128]

You cant help but have tears in your eyes when you see this. Louisiana will always live deep in my heart no matter how much I travel. Long Live Louisiana.....

[@ElephantsGerald]

It's so amazing to see people coming together in that time of grief to celebrate a man's life and the music that lives in everyone. I've only been to New Orleans a few times, but that didn't stop me from falling in love with it's people, it's music and it's traditions.

[@rubenshaffer8558]

. Me

[@Blad3sofWaR]

What a better way to deal with a passing then by celebrating their life with that of the people that live on for them.

[@ilducedimas]

+Blad3sofWaR True that.

[@bunkyman8097]

Thumbs down? Really, what is wrong with you people? This is the way it should be done. This is beautiful.

[@mpg4444]

Perfect "send off" - have watched this 100 times. The absolute BEST !

[@joanpinossariol4078]

Blowing their hearts trough the horns... buf... pure tradition.

[@KINGKAOS518]

Nobody does a funeral like New Orleans! God Bless. Keep your culture alive!!!

[@christophermercer2632]

Look up the uhop

[@reyesnation]

Shit gave me goosebumps and teary eyes!

[@LeannPerdue]

Uriel Reyes me too

[@mrcwoodall23]

Leann Perdue me three

[@trey1941able]

Damn they sent that nigga home! Awesome...

[@deangeloharris2744]

Man this is moving and a prime example of why I love music ❤

[@andrewhitz]

The fact that 40 people have given this beautifully moving video a thumbs down makes me worry about the future of the human race. But the fact that traditions like this still live on in one of the most unique cities in the world makes me think we might just make it after all...

[@joaniegillis4472]

Other peoples problems no worries

[@joaniegillis4472]

Music had to be good hard growing up there as a kid

[@2302Dieter]

Quality is not the best, maybe that's why.

[@Dark-Mustang]

Probably because of the video fidelity, it's pretty grainy, or simply by accident. I can't imagine any other reason, doubt get bent out of shape about haters

[@brigettepiattoly344]

There are no "thumbs down" you are delusional. There are a multiplicity of "thumbs up." No need to panic for the "fate of humanity." 😅

[@cassw5376]

How the rocking horse shit can anyone give this a thumbs down? I'm sat here in tears with the pure emotion of it all and I never even knew the deceased, God rest him. It's a beautiful send off.

[@CikCycles]

Cass W glad you enjoyed it.

[@dwaterson21]

As I say: "Only in New Orleans do the dead get their own outro music."

[@andeegirl]

This tradition is so moving! I keep watching it. Makes you feel like rejoicing for the person's life even thought you don't know them.

[@bradwarren9208]

Fabulous. This is a piece of American culture that I wish more people knew about.

[@Musik216]

they sent him home LOVELY!!!!!! The Brass is truly representing!!!!!!!! I love it!!!! I have to say it again...THAT WAS BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!

[@mariolouis6412]

Man America can be a pretty diverse place

[@randyscott3386]

It's some of the best music I've ever heard in my life . Those guys are playing their hearts out . Oh if I could only leave this world like that . God Bless The Band !

[@susangratwick5327]

And I am originally from a little Lincolnshire village, now living in London. This funeral march music resonates all over my body, joy, every emotion active in me at once. it really is amazing. Thank you all of those and these musicians from that city I will never see!

[@vanessahawarden9028]

Those 18/10 gauge steel caskets are incredibly heavy so this is just amazingly brilliant..an amazing and wonderful send off with so much love and honesty...I just love this fantastic show of emotion and utterly un-restrained feelings

[@dwaterson21]

This man was so badass he got his own outro music. What a fuckin send-off. If I could choose how I go, it would be like this. Louisiana does it the best. Send em off with soul.

[@mac609]

Now this is the way to go out!! New Orleans is so unique. I hope this tradition never ends.

[@Phonetroll]

This man was loved. His wealth is visible in the amount of friends gathered to celebrate his life. You can actually feel the emotion from the video.

[@CrackPaK]

Man this Was So Heart Felt!!!!!!

[@antoinecaldwell7525]

I'll have that coffin Shaken, not stirred!! Way to send a brother off.

[@NOrleansbro]

Antoine Caldwell lol

[@thetophatchicken]

One last dance man

[@miltonmcneil2997]

I love my people. They are the life the flavor and spirit of this universe.

[@TheEldonfitz]

Kerwin was loved. The dancing coffin (twice) was so pure ! Thank you

[@lawrencewilliams3755]

This makes me want to celebrate my home going while I'm still alive! This was PHENOMENAL. Such a RICH culture in NOLA

[@blackhawks81H]

Very little on earth gets to me. But I just about had tears in my eyes watching this. Absolutely incredible display of love and respect.

[@ElvisLivesUpstairs]

blackhawks81H same!

[@pcarney72]

Oh, grown man here... seen a lot of crap pass under the bridge, but it got my eyes watering away. Just imagine being sent off like that. Words don't describe it!

[@amd77j]

I've loved this type of "homegoing" celebration ever since I first read about them as a kid. What a deep cultural expression from the ones who loved you. And I just love New Orleans and its people.

[@MarissaCuellar]

I loveeeee they way they celebrate and dance!! This exactly the way it should should always be...people from New Orleans sure know how to do it....music is awesome!!

[@TimTamashiro]

This celebration sent chills up my spine. What a passionate and loving display of affection for Mr. James. Loved it. Thanks for sharing.

[@streetcarjay]

That's how I want my life to be celebrated after leaving thus earth. Music, beer and great stories of me.

[@lipstickwarrior597]

Love this, merci, I'm from the Carribean and this is how we do it, a celebration of life!

[@gentrismoore7566]

With the highest honors and salutations and the humble respect for God and Mr. Kerwin James, the musicians turned out to celebrate Mr. James the tuba player home... It was a beautiful Tribute, and the loving spirit overwhelmed me with joyful tears. So go ahead and side line me, with the whole town of horn players, and dancers with my last dance being with the band. Out Standing! ~ Gentris O’Hara Moore

[@gisellevoltaire4032]

i lived in NOLA for a while and it is indeed a beautiful and magical place. I miss it everyday! it is a wonderful place!

[@CikCycles]

Yes It almost put me to tears as I was filming it. B.T.W... I see your last name is Frazier. The Tuba player in the video holding up the casket and crying his name is Phil Frazier. He is leader of the Grammy winning Rebirth Brass Band.

[@rdehn5799]

only in New Orleans, awesome

[@oscarwildeghost]

First went to New Orleans in 1977 when I was stationed in Biloxi. Been back every year since. Great food, great city, great culture and absolutely fantastic people! I've met some of the most interesting and kindest people just walking down the street. This is the way to go out, friends and music instead of tears.

[@chasistyhaigler5489]

What a SEND OFF! RIP Kerwin!!! The Ultimate Celebration of Life!

[@sdalie41]

I Think This Tribute Is Beautiful.... I Just Loved Loved Loved It....

[@colanderhead1971]

God rest Mr. James's soul and comfort his family and friends. This was beautiful to watch, and makes me want to have a funeral like this. I like the "one last dance" to music tradition. CHEERS!!!!

[@NancyRutland]

I live in NOLA & I love these

[@timemachine99gx88]

I hope when I die I got people to rock me home like this. tears running down my face a smile on my face.

[@backedbybuddha]

God, I love hearing so many tubas at the same time. Beautiful. I want my casket rocked at my funeral.

[@petercobden424]

I was once a bicycle taxi operator in New Orleans and I look back at this and dream about the cultural diversity as it once flowed through my soul and blood!!

[@bobohrumbobkat6860]

I've watched this video 100 times and shed tears every time... So beautiful

[@maxfrankow1238]

No tears. Just great music and celebrating a life well lived and the entrance into the Great Beyond.

[@loblue]

This is the most loving funeral I have ever witnessed. These guys really know each other and love each other dearly. And I love them too.

[@lachan41774]

Hell of a send off. Bringing tears to my eyes

[@JohnCahillChapel]

Respect! The way you guys celebrate a life on these occasions almost makes me ....

[@jayeemonet]

There is no place like it.... On Sunday mornings you can her the Tuba strike up and eventually the drums and so and so on...... and before you know it you have hudreds of people dancing in front of your door.... everyone is happy..... Now I am in Georgia and Im like everyone is so meannnnn. I am missing Home so muchhhhhhhhhh... Hope you visit soon LOL

[@AmaagatamHanaak]

This is the most incredibly beautiful funeral i have ever seen. It really touched my heart and YES, everyone should have the opportunity "to leave" like this. OMG! I'm still crying.

[@vinycrimbo8692]

It's so beautiful, I was almost wishing it was me in the casket!!

[@slydoll7877]

So much more beautiful than a sombre carrying out of a coffin. Giving the loved-one a last chance to dance with their friends and family is amazing.

[@lafayettemartin6098]

That's one joyful sendoff! Thanks to all those keeping these old traditions alive.

[@LamontCatEdwards]

My God they sure know how to send a nigga home in style #MuchRespect

[@peterkehagias9270]

Why am I crying over this

[@yseson_]

Because its moving

[@misterzapon]

What a big emotion listening this music and watching this moovie! Great free energy, powerful life, jazz for ever! I'm watching so meny times! Big hug to New Orleans Spirit! Francesco Bifano Italy

[@lyris123]

That's what I call a send off! Just a closer walk.

[@guttedsquid]

The beauty of this funeral always inspires me. I hope that when I die those who loved me most will send me off like this.

[@sharonmartinez7861]

I would love to go out just like that!

[@clovisrenepereiraribeiro854]

It brought tears to my eyes. I want to take my old trumpet and play along ...

[@jasonr909]

Send that man home in style.

[@MikeC32958]

As real as it gets brothers/sisters. Ashes to ashes..... 😊😊

[@MDW03]

I wanna go out this way! No tears, just celebration of a life well lived!

[@LadyNewOrleans504]

i was raised in the 9th ward.man i miss home....this is really in my heart from the jazz funeral to the second line to the idian parades...gotta love it.

[@АнатолийКачуа]

Это очень достойно , очень круто , большое уважение к родственникам организовавшим такое прощание,

[@fredmatthewsii.537]

You can tell this was someone who was loved by many

[@Bigband78]

What a way to go ! Loved it.

[@janettewalker3991]

What a turnout and tribute - much better than tears.

[@dwaterson21]

They sent him to Heaven, not with tears or grief, but his own entrance music. Only in NOLA, I love it.

[@mrmime00]

what a beautiful funeral brings tears to my eyes

[@Joyusnes]

Wow, is that beautiful! Bless whoever shared that video - this man was deeply loved.

[@U2kitteh]

R.I.P. Kerwin James

[@eddieharr]

this made me tear up. As a Louisiana native this just picks at my heart strings. What a emotional way to go to the lord, to go home.

[@djcov1]

That was awesome and a lot of Love was there in his Home going thanks for sharing. I still feel the Love.

[@tinjarir]

I watched some of Prince Philip's staid funeral right before watching this amazing moment in New Orleans. Oh man, this brought joy to my heart and a few tears to my eyes. What a beautiful thing this is. Well done, Mr James. Whoever you were. People must've loved you.

[@chap170]

Absolutely wonderful

[@yumyumwhatzohai]

Ive seen this videos how many times, an yet it never ever ever fails to bring tears to my eyes. I doubt I'll ever have a funeral like this, but oh boy, there is definetly no better way to go out, than like this.

[@Musik216]

they sent him home LOVELY!!!!!! The Brass is truly representing!!!!!!!! I love it!!!!

[@jeffmoreno]

To be honored like this is amazing. Mr. James, I may not have known you, but to have a send off like this shows that you have a lot of friends and admirers that loved you. May you rest in peace.

[@terrencehollowell9566]

Much Love from Va.now that's the meaning of culture

[@ffmandal]

What a wonderful tradition!!!!

[@jonathanwierenga77]

the music sounds so good!

[@heraklit8.170]

This is the most happiest performance I've ever seen. Just fabulous!

[@superhappyfuntime28]

A tip of the hat to a fellow tuba player, may he rest in peace. -Jason Phx,AZ

[@armyguy528]

Kerwin, I wish I could have met you and known you before you had passed.. this video alone made me pull out my Sax after it being in the case for nearly 10 years. Much Love, and thank you for your love and support of New Orleans Music. ..oh, and I give you full permission to make fun of me if I don't get a funeral as awesome as yours when I get up there. ;)

[@XbronzeyeX]

“Swing him one more time!!!” Made sure he was sent off right. Mad respect.

[@qeqe07]

I was just thinking the same thing. Im not from Louisiana but i want my funeral to be like this, this is so unique

[@timharle8065]

You GOTTA LOVE THIS!!! The respect given to the musician was Magical. On another note, WHO THE HELL IS THAT PLAYING AT 5:40?!!!! DAMN, HIM PLAYING ALWAYS MAKE MY EYES WATER!!! GREAT SEND OFF!!

[@PatsBooks]

I've shown this all of my friends and family. It is soooooo beautiful. My heart is touched.

[@vmangani]

It's beautiful and moving. That's my kind of city.

[@lampang3]

So touching,very moving very poignant. I smile as a stray tear rolls down my cheek