I played this song clawhammer style in the key of F and included a simplified tablature demonstration at the end of the video. I’m including a printout of that tablature below. If you need help learning clawhammer, check out my Clawhammer Tutorial.

“Will the Circle Be Unbroken” is a classic gospel song with deep roots in American folk and country music. The song’s origins trace back to 1907, when it was written by Charles H. Gabriel (music) and Ada R. Habershon (lyrics) as a Christian hymn. The original version focused on themes of heavenly reunion and faith, often sung in churches and gospel gatherings.

In the 1930s, the song was adapted by The Carter Family, who modified the lyrics to reflect a more personal and secular tone. Their version became one of the most well-known renditions, turning it into a staple of country, bluegrass, and folk music. The song’s message of mourning a loved one while holding onto the hope of reunion in the afterlife resonated with audiences, making it a favorite at funerals and religious services.

Over the years, Will the Circle Be Unbroken has been recorded by numerous artists, including Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, and Willie Nelson. The song became even more famous with the release of the 1972 Will the Circle Be Unbroken album by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, which featured collaborations with country legends like Mother Maybelle Carter, Earl Scruggs, and Doc Watson.

Today, Will the Circle Be Unbroken remains an iconic song in American music, symbolizing themes of loss, faith, and the enduring power of music to bring people together.