Little is known of James Radcliffe beyond his description of himself on the title-page of his set of glees (pub. c.1790) as being "of Worcester Cathedral". He was a Lay Clerk there from 1780, but was suspended for absenteeism in 1791, and permanently dismissed in 1793.

Lyrics: Anon

Pluck'd in thy May, fair flower of life, farewell.
O that this verse but half thy praise could tell.
So soft thy nature, there no passion grew,
So pure thy bosom, it no vices knew.
The smile of patience softened all thy look,
Meek-tongued good humour sweetened all you spoke.
Through life belov'd thy humble state was blest;
In death lamented, crowned with glory rest.
Be peace, be honour to this humble urn,
For here the parent, the friend and lover mourn.
Let proud ambition mark some other grave,
Climb the tall column, the proud banner wave.
Thy worthless, ailing testimonies prove
The sighs of friendship, and the tear of love.