A NINE NIGHT LIKE NO OTHER

REMEMBERING JAMES COOK MBE

Everything about James Cook MBE has been phenomenal – right to the very end!

Sunday was the Nine Night, and I have to say, I have never experienced anything quite like it. The love for James was undeniable – evident in the sheer number of people who came out to pay their respects. Under clear skies and radiant sunshine, nature itself seemed to declare: “James, you are loved.”

Over 1,000 people gathered at the Pedro Club to honour his legacy. It was a remarkable scene. But then again, that is James – even in his passing, he was bringing communities and cultures together.

Now, about cultures, all week, I had phone calls, asking me: “What exactly is a Nine Night?”
So, here is a quick explanation:

The Nine Night is a deeply rooted Jamaican tradition, originally from West Africa. It is a celebration of life – an occasion where family, friends, and community gather in love and memory of the departed. There is music, food, laughter, stories, tributes and games. There is some mourning, but it is more about togetherness, reflection, and upliftment.

On Sunday, we saw exactly that.

Beautiful tributes were shared. Memories of past journeys and gatherings were told.

James’s spirit was everywhere.

And as someone who was close to him, though the loss is so heavy, I was filled with gratitude to witness such a deep outpouring of love and unity.

James Cook MBE – still leading, still inspiring, still uniting us all.

We miss you, my brother.