Will the circle be unbroken
Waterboys · Other Songs - Waterboys
Whose dear forms you often miss;
When you close your earthly story,
Will you join them in their bliss?
Refrain: Will the circle be unbroken
By and by, by and by!
In a better home waiting
In the sky, in the sky?
In the joyous days of childhood,
Oft they told of wondrous love,
Pointed to the dying Saviour
Now they dwell with Him above.
Refrain:
You can picture happy gatherings
Round the fireside long ago,
And you think of tearful partings,
When they left you here below.
Refrain:
One by one their seats were emptied,
One by one they went away;
Here the circle has been broken.
Will it be complete one day?
Refrain:
Will the circle be unbroken
Waterboys' 1984 single 'Will the circle be unbroken' stands as a defining track of the shoegaze and indie rock movements that emerged from Manchester. Recorded during the band's formative years, the song blends ethereal vocals with driving guitar work to create an atmospheric soundscape that captivated audiences. Released on the label Rough Trade, the track became a staple of their early discography, establishing the band's reputation for blending folk influences with modern rock production. Its enduring popularity stems from its ability to evoke a sense of communal connection and melancholic beauty, making it a frequent choice for live performances and a touchstone for fans of the genre. The song's lyrical themes of unity and cyclical time resonate across generations, cementing its place in the canon of 1980s alternative music.