“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
The Carter Family, a pioneering force in country music, is best known for their influential song “Can the Circle Be Unbroken.” This group, consisting of A.P. Carter, his wife Sara Carter, and sister-in-law Maybelle Carter, played a critical role in popularizing traditional American folk music. Their rendition of “Can the Circle Be Unbroken” is a testament to their deep-rooted Southern heritage and their ability to convey profound emotional depth through simple, yet powerful melodies and lyrics.
“Can the Circle Be Unbroken” is a reworking of the hymn “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” and has become one of The Carter Family’s most recognized and enduring songs. The Carter Family’s version, recorded in 1935, transformed the hymn into a country music standard, bringing its themes of loss and hope to a wider audience and cementing its place in American music history.
About The Composition
- Title: Can the Circle Be Unbroken (By and By)
- Composer: A.P. Carter
- Premiere Date: 1935
- Album/Opus/Collection: Unknown
- Genre: Country, Gospel
Background
The song “Can the Circle Be Unbroken” is based on the hymn “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” originally published in 1907 with music by Charles H. Gabriel and lyrics by Ada R. Habershon. The Carter Family’s adaptation in 1935 emphasized themes of familial love and the pain of separation, resonating deeply with audiences during the Great Depression. This period was marked by widespread hardship, and the song’s themes of perseverance and the hope of reuniting with loved ones in the afterlife offered comfort and solace.
The Carter Family’s version altered the original hymn to focus more on the narrative of a funeral, capturing the sorrow of saying goodbye to a loved one, while still maintaining a sense of hope and continuity. This adaptation was significant in that it merged the sacred with the secular, allowing it to reach a broader audience beyond church congregations.
Musical Style
“Can the Circle Be Unbroken” is characterized by its simple, yet poignant melody and harmonies, typical of The Carter Family’s style. The song features Maybelle Carter’s innovative guitar techniques, including the “Carter Scratch,” which allowed her to play melody and rhythm simultaneously. This musical approach not only defined the sound of the group but also influenced countless musicians in the country and folk genres.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Can the Circle Be Unbroken” deal with themes of grief and hope. They narrate a story of mourning the loss of a mother and the emotional journey of dealing with her passing. Despite the sorrowful subject matter, the song conveys a message of hope, emphasizing the idea of reuniting with loved ones in the afterlife, which offers a comforting perspective on death and loss.
Performance History
Since its recording in 1935, “Can the Circle Be Unbroken” has been performed by numerous artists, becoming a staple in the repertoire of country and folk musicians. Notable performances include those by artists such as Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, who included it in their landmark 1972 album “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” which brought together various generations of country musicians.
Cultural Impact
The song has had a significant impact on American music and culture, often being used in films, television shows, and documentaries to evoke themes of family, tradition, and perseverance. It has become an anthem of sorts for those who appreciate its blend of heartfelt emotion and simple, yet powerful storytelling. Its inclusion in various media has helped to maintain its relevance and introduce it to new audiences over the decades.
Legacy
Today, “Can the Circle Be Unbroken” remains an enduring symbol of The Carter Family’s legacy and their contribution to American music. It continues to be celebrated for its timeless message and its role in shaping the sounds of country and folk music. The song’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level ensures its place in the canon of American musical history.
Conclusion
“Can the Circle Be Unbroken” stands as a testament to the power of music to convey deep emotion and provide comfort in times of sorrow. Its enduring legacy is a reflection of The Carter Family’s influence on the music world. I encourage you to explore more of their work to fully appreciate their impact on American music and culture.
Video
Lyrics
Will the circle be unbroken
By and by Lord, by and by
There’s a better home awaiting
In the sky, Lord, in the sky
Well I was standing by my window
On one cold and cloudy day
When I saw the hearse come rolling
For to carry my mother away
Will the circle be unbroken
By and by Lord, by and by
There’s a better home awaiting
In the sky, Lord, in the sky
Undertaker, undertaker
Undertaker please drive slow
For that body you are hauling
Lord, I hate to see her go
Will the circle be unbroken
By and by Lord, by and by
There’s a better home awaiting
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 the grave
Will the circle be unbroken
By and by Lord, by and by
There’s a better home awaiting
In the sky Lord, in the sky
Well, I went back home, yes
My home was hopeful
Although mother had gone home
With my family stand together
Now no one stands alone
Will the circle be unbroken
By and by Lord, by and by
There’s a better home awaiting
In the sky Lord, in the sky
Oh, will the circle be unbroken
By and by Lord, by and by
There’s a better home awaiting
In the sky Lord, in the sky
There’s a better home awaiting
In the sky Lord, in the sky