Will the Circle Be Unbroken – Easy Guitar Lesson
Learn to play “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” on guitar with simple chords and strumming. Perfect for beginners!
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.
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Chords Used: G, C, D
You only need three easy chords to play this song:
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 dTo summarize:
- Learn the chords
- Practice them with downstrokes only & count through the song
- Learn the strumming pattern
- 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]
Get the Chord Chart That Goes With This Lesson!
Academy Members can download it instantly and follow along step-by-step.
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! 🎸
