Ada R. Habershon was an English hymn writer who shaped the sound of early gospel music. Born in 1861, she dedicated much of her life to creating spiritual songs that inspired countless listeners across the world.
In collaboration with composers like Charles H. Gabriel, Habershon created songs that felt both hopeful and timeless. Her words captured moments of grief, longing, and joy, making them ideal for worship services and spiritual gatherings.
Today, Ada R. Habershon is celebrated as one of the great writers of gospel music. Her classic hymn, Will the Circle Be Unbroken, stands as a testament to her gift for capturing deep emotion and spiritual truth in song.
About the Song
Will the Circle Be Unbroken is one of the best-known gospel songs in American music history. Its hopeful message about reuniting with loved ones in the afterlife has connected with generations of listeners.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | 1907 |
| Writer(s) | Ada R. Habershon (Original Lyrics), Charles H. Gabriel (Music) |
| Notable Recordings | The Carter Family, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson |
Complete Will the Circle Be Unbroken Lyrics
There are loved ones in the glory,
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 awaiting
In the sky, in the sky.
In the joyous days of childhood,
Oft they told of wondrous love,
Pointed to the dying Savior;
Now they dwell with Him above.
You remember songs of heaven
Which you sang with childish voice,
Do you love the hymns they taught you,
Or are songs of earth your choice?
You can picture happy gath’rings
’Round the fireside long ago,
And you think of tearful partings,
When they left you here below.
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?
Similar Songs Like Will the Circle Be Unbroken
Here are some famous songs that capture the same spirit of comfort, community, and deep emotion.
- Daddy Sang Bass: Celebrates family unity and faith through joyful gospel singing, highlighting the strength found in shared love and music.
- I’ll Fly Away: A hopeful gospel song about escaping earthly troubles and finding eternal peace in the afterlife.
- Angel Band: It is a gentle hymn about longing for angelic guidance and the promise of heaven’s acceptance after death.
- In the Sweet By and By: Expresses faith in a joyful reunion with loved ones in heaven, offering comfort amid life’s hardships.
Similar Artists Like Ada R. Habershon
If you appreciate Ada R. Habershon’s timeless hymn writing, you may enjoy these influential gospel and hymn composers. Each artist shares a legacy of heartfelt lyrics and melodies that have inspired generations.
- Fanny J. Crosby
Genre: Hymn Writing / Gospel
Top albums: Blessed Assurance (1873), To God Be the Glory (1875), Rescue the Perishing (1869) - Charles H. Gabriel
Genre: Hymn Writing / Gospel
Top albums: His Eye Is on the Sparrow (1905), Will the Circle Be Unbroken (1907), I Stand Amazed in the Presence (1905) - Ira D. Sankey
Genre: Hymn Writing / Gospel
Top albums: The Ninety and Nine (1874), Faith Is the Victory (1891), There’ll Be No Dark Valley (1885) - Philip P. Bliss
Genre: Hymn Writing / Gospel
Top albums: It Is Well with My Soul (1876), Hallelujah, What a Savior! (1875), Let the Lower Lights Be Burning (1871) - Frances Ridley Havergal
Genre: Hymn Writing / Gospel
Top albums: Take My Life and Let It Be (1874), I Gave My Life for Thee (1859), Like a River Glorious (1876)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Inspired Ada R. Habershon to Write Will the Circle Be Unbroken?
Ada R. Habershon was inspired to write hymns for evangelistic tours led by R.A. Torrey and Charles Alexander in the early 1900s. She wrote over 200 hymns for their campaigns, including Will the Circle Be Unbroken.
How did Will the Circle Be Unbroken Become Popular in American Folk and Country Music?
The Carter Family adapted and recorded the song in 1935 as Can the Circle Be Unbroken (By and By), changing some verses and giving it a country music style. This version became a standard in American folk and country music.
Is Will the Circle Be Unbroken in the Public Domain?
Yes, due to its age, both the lyrics and music are now in the public domain, allowing free use and adaptation.
