Will The Circle Be Unbroken
The Stanley Brothers · Other Songs - The Stanley Brothers
On a cold and cloudy day
When I saw the hearse come rolling
To carry my mother away
Will the circle be unbroken
Bye and bye Lord bye and bye
There's a better home a waiting
In the sky Lord in the sky
I said to the undertaker
Undertaker please drive slow
For this lady you are carrying
Lord I hate to see her go
Will the circle be unbroken
Bye and bye Lord bye and bye
There's a better home a waiting
In the sky Lord in the sky
Well I followed close behind her
Tried to hold up and be brave
But I could not hide my sorrow
When they laid her in that grave
Will the circle be unbroken
Bye and bye Lord bye and bye
There's a better home a waiting
In the sky Lord in the sky
I went back home that home was lonesome
Since my mother, she was gone
All my brothers and sisters crying
What a home so sad and alone
Will The Circle Be Unbroken
The Stanley Brothers' 1959 recording of 'Will The Circle Be Unbroken' stands as a seminal work in American folk and gospel music. Recorded in their native Kentucky, the track showcases the duo's signature blend of bluegrass instrumentation and spiritual vocal harmonies. The song, which draws from traditional spirituals and hymns, captures the raw emotional power of Appalachian musical heritage. Its distinctive arrangement features driving banjo and fiddle work that propels the narrative of faith and community resilience. Released during a period when traditional folk was gaining mainstream traction, the recording helped define the sound of the Stanley Brothers and influenced countless subsequent artists in the bluegrass and roots music genres. The song remains a staple of religious and secular gatherings alike, celebrated for its timeless message and the brothers' exceptional vocal chemistry.