Will the Circle Be Unbroken – Easy Guitar Lesson

Will The Circle Be Unbroken Guitar Tutorial

Will the Circle Be Unbroken – Easy Guitar Lesson

Learn to Play “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” on Guitar

“Will the Circle Be Unbroken” is a classic gospel and folk song, widely known for its uplifting melody and easy-to-play chord progression. Whether you’re playing solo or with a group, this song is a great addition to any guitarist’s repertoire.

Chords Used: G, C, D

You only need three easy chords to play this song:

g chord guitar
c chord guitar
d chord guitar

These are some of the most common chords in folk and gospel music, and if you’re just starting out, this is a great song to practice smooth chord changes.

Strumming Pattern:

Chord Progression Practice:

Just want to see the chords & lyrics? Scroll down a bit more — BUT I encourage you to do this first – it’ll improve your success rate:

Use downstrokes while counting the beats!

This ensures accurate timing and smooth chord changes – then simply add the strumming pattern, and you’re all set!

d = downstroke

G        G        G        G      
1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4
d d d d  d d d d  d d d d  d d d d

C        C        G        G      
1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4
d d d d  d d d d  d d d d  d d d d

G        G        G        G      
1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4
d d d d  d d d d  d d d d  d d d d

G        D        G        G     
1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4  1 2 3 4
d d d d  d d d d  d d d d  d d d d

To summarize:

  1. Learn the chords
  2. Practice them with downstrokes only & count through the song
  3. Learn the strumming pattern
  4. Play the song!

Lyrics and Chords

[Chorus]
G G G G
Will the circle be unbroken
C C G G
By and by Lord, by and by,
G G G G
There's a better home a-waiting
G D G G
In the sky Lord, in the sky.

[Verse]
G G G G
I was standing by my window
C C G G
On a cold and cloudy day
G G G G
When I saw that hearse come a-rolling
G D G G
For to carry my mother away.

[Chorus]

[Verse]
Lord, I told that undertaker,
Undertaker please drive slow
For this body that you are hauling
Lord, I hate to see her go.

[Chorus]

[Verse]
I followed close behind her
Tried to hold up and be brave
But I could not hide my sorrow
When they laid her in the grave.

[Chorus]

[Verse]
I went home, my home was lonely
Now my mother she was gone
All my brothers, sisters crying
What a home so sad and alone

[Chorus]

Tips for Beginners

  • Chord Changes: The transitions are straightforward, but if you struggle, practice switching between G, C, and D smoothly.
  • Strumming Feel: Try keeping a steady rhythm by tapping your foot along with the beat.
  • Sing Along: The melody is easy to follow, making it a great song for playing and singing together.

A Timeless Song for Every Guitarist

“Will the Circle Be Unbroken” is a staple in gospel, country, and folk music. With its simple yet powerful message, it’s a great song to share with family and friends.

Let me know if you need help with specific parts of the song, and happy strumming! 🎸

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