Introduction
In August 2015, Sir Cliff Richard delivered a heartfelt rendition of “Faithful One” at the funeral of his long-time friend Cilla Black, transforming a solemn ceremony into a deeply personal tribute that resonated with grace, authenticity, and genuine emotion.
Sir Cliff and Cilla Black first rose to fame together in the swinging 1960s, forging a bond that endured through chart-topping hits and countless shared moments in showbiz life.
When news of Cilla’s sudden passing broke in early August 2015, Cliff described her as “incredibly gifted” and “full of heart,” underscoring a friendship built on mutual respect.
Their camaraderie even saw them enjoying sunny afternoons in Marbella or cheering on Wimbledon matches side by side.
Cilla Black’s funeral service was held on 20 August 2015 at St Mary’s Church in her beloved Liverpool community.
Mourners gathered in the same church where she’d wed her husband decades earlier, and the atmosphere mingled reverence with the warmth of a life well lived.
Before he sang, Cliff paid tribute in a few spontaneous words, admitting he’d left his lyric sheet behind yet feeling no nerves because of the depth of his connection with Cilla.
Opening the ceremony, Sir Cliff chose “Faithful One,” a gospel-inflected song written by Chris Eaton and featured on his 2004 album.
In his remarks, Cliff explained that the “faithful one” in the lyrics refers to Jesus, then launched into a stirring vocal delivery that felt less like preaching and more like bearing honest witness to his truth.
Lines such as “I walk a narrow road through valleys deep… And with feet unsure I still keep pressing on” took on new resonance in that setting, reflecting both personal faith and steadfast friendship.
As Cliff’s clear tenor filled the historic church, friends like Tom Jones and Paul O’Grady stood alongside family, their tears and hushed applause testifying to Cilla’s impact.
Viewers worldwide later watched the performance on 5 News’ YouTube channel, where his authentic delivery and off-the-cuff remarks moved thousands.
That evening reminded everyone that music can both honor the past and heal the present, turning grief into a shared, uplifting moment.