Irish singer-songwriter Jo Garrity, who performs under the stage name Redd, has revealed that her performance at a funeral for East Cheshire Hospice patient Emily Smith was the most challenging of her entire career. The emotional two-hour set included a specially written tribute song called 'Emily's Song,' created to honour her friend who was known through Emily's mother, Jan Lakin.
A Personal Connection Through Education
Jo Garrity, who now works as an educational consultant, originally met Jan Lakin when she taught at a school where Jan served as head teacher. This professional relationship blossomed into a personal connection that led to the heartfelt musical tribute. Jo explained that she was inspired to write 'Emily's Song' after Jan asked her to perform at Emily's life celebration ceremony.
The Meaning Behind 'Emily's Song'
The tribute composition focuses on Emily's life journey, her personal challenges, and her remarkably positive outlook despite difficulties. One particularly poignant lyric references the sunflower, which serves as the official emblem of East Cheshire Hospice. Jo noted that this flower was Emily's absolute favourite and perfectly symbolised her vibrant personality and spirit.
"The song was surprisingly easy to write because of Emily's incredible spirit," Jo reflected. "It was truly an honour to perform it at her celebration. You could have heard a pin drop during the performance - everyone sat in complete silence, listening intently, and there weren't many dry eyes in the room."
An Emotionally Powerful Performance
Despite having performed at numerous solemn occasions throughout her career, Jo described this particular performance as uniquely powerful and heart-breaking. "It was undoubtedly my most difficult performance," she admitted, "even though I've sung at many other sad occasions over the years. The emotional weight was unlike anything I've experienced before."
A Celebration of Life
Jan Lakin shared that Emily had personally organised her own funeral arrangements and specifically requested that Jo perform. "Emily wanted the boys to remember the occasion as their mum's party rather than a traditional wake," Jan explained, highlighting the celebratory approach to the life ceremony.
In addition to 'Emily's Song,' Jo also performed 'Remember,' another composition that was particularly cherished by both Emily and her mother. The recording of this song is now available on all major music platforms under the artist name Reddmusic, with all proceeds being donated directly to support East Cheshire Hospice's vital work.
A Singer with International Recognition
Jo Garrity has achieved considerable success as a vocalist on the global stage, with music mogul Simon Cowell once describing her voice as both unique and breath-taking. Her performance credentials extend to significant sporting events, including singing the Australian national anthem at international rugby matches.
The story of this emotional tribute performance underscores the powerful connections that can form between hospice patients, their families, and the community members who support them through difficult times. The musical legacy continues to benefit East Cheshire Hospice through ongoing donations from song downloads, creating a lasting tribute that supports the organisation's important work.
