Bluegrass Gospel: Singing Praises with Strings and Harmony – Lyrics & Chords
Bluegrass gospel is a vibrant and uplifting subgenre of bluegrass music, characterized by its tight harmonies, fast-paced instrumentation, and heartfelt lyrics centered around faith, hope, and redemption. It’s a music that resonates with both the devout and those simply seeking a positive and energetic sound.
This article will explore the beauty of bluegrass gospel by providing lyrics and chords for some popular and beloved songs, allowing you to play and sing along, experiencing the joy of this genre firsthand.
Understanding Bluegrass Gospel Chords
Bluegrass music typically relies on a few core chords, making it relatively accessible for beginners. Common chords include:
- G Major: A foundational chord in bluegrass.
- C Major: A bright and cheerful chord.
- D Major: Another common and versatile chord.
- A Major: Adds a different flavor and harmonic color.
- E Major: Used less frequently, but still important.
- B Minor: A minor chord that can add depth and emotion.
These chords, often played in open positions, form the backbone of many bluegrass gospel songs. Experiment with different voicings and fingerpicking patterns to add your own flair.
Song 1: "I’ll Fly Away"
This timeless classic is a staple in bluegrass gospel. Its simple melody and hopeful message make it universally appealing.
(Key: G)
(Verse 1)
[G]Some glad morning when this [C]life is [G]o’er,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way;
[G]To a home on God’s ce[C]lestial [G]shore,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way.
(Chorus)
[G]I’ll fly a[C]way, oh [G]glory,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way;
[G]When I die, halle[C]lujah by and [G]by,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way.
(Verse 2)
[G]When the shadows of this [C]life have [G]grown,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way;
[G]Like a bird from prison [C]bars has [G]flown,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way.
(Chorus)
[G]I’ll fly a[C]way, oh [G]glory,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way;
[G]When I die, halle[C]lujah by and [G]by,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way.
(Verse 3)
[G]Just a few more weary [C]days and [G]then,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way;
[G]To a land where joys shall [C]never [G]end,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way.
(Chorus)
[G]I’ll fly a[C]way, oh [G]glory,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way;
[G]When I die, halle[C]lujah by and [G]by,
[D]I’ll fly a[G]way.
Song 2: "Angel Band"
Another classic, "Angel Band" speaks of the joy and comfort of joining the heavenly choir.
(Key: G)
(Verse 1)
[G]My latest sun is [C]sinking [G]fast,
[D]My race is near[G]ly run;
[G]My strongest trials [C]now are [G]past,
[D]My triumph is be[G]gun.
(Chorus)
[G]Oh, come, an[C]gel band,
[G]Come and a[D]round me [G]stand;
[G]Oh, bear me a[C]way on your snow-[G]white wings,
[D]To my im[G]mortal home.
(Verse 2)
[G]I know I’m near the [C]holy [G]banks,
[D]Of Jordan’s [G]swelling tide;
[G]I see the glory [C]gleaming [G]ranks,
[D]That gather on the [G]side.
(Chorus)
[G]Oh, come, an[C]gel band,
[G]Come and a[D]round me [G]stand;
[G]Oh, bear me a[C]way on your snow-[G]white wings,
[D]To my im[G]mortal home.
(Verse 3)
[G]I’ve almost gained my [C]heavenly [G]home,
[D]My spirit [G]loudly sings;
[G]The holy ones a[C]round me [G]come,
[D]With harps and [G]snow-white wings.
(Chorus)
[G]Oh, come, an[C]gel band,
[G]Come and a[D]round me [G]stand;
[G]Oh, bear me a[C]way on your snow-[G]white wings,
[D]To my im[G]mortal home.
Song 3: "Working on a Building"
This upbeat song uses the metaphor of building a house to represent spiritual growth and preparation for the afterlife.
(Key: G)
(Verse 1)
[G]I am working on a [C]building,
[G]I am working on a [D]building,
[G]I am working on a [C]building,
[G]For my [D]Lord, for my [G]Lord.
(Chorus)
[G]Got to lay the corner[C]stone,
[G]Got to lay the corner[D]stone,
[G]Got to lay the corner[C]stone,
[G]For my [D]Lord, for my [G]Lord.
(Verse 2)
[G]Got to put in the [C]windows,
[G]Got to put in the [D]windows,
[G]Got to put in the [C]windows,
[G]For my [D]Lord, for my [G]Lord.
(Chorus)
[G]Got to lay the corner[C]stone,
[G]Got to lay the corner[D]stone,
[G]Got to lay the corner[C]stone,
[G]For my [D]Lord, for my [G]Lord.
(Verse 3)
[G]Got to put on the [C]roof now,
[G]Got to put on the [D]roof now,
[G]Got to put on the [C]roof now,
[G]For my [D]Lord, for my [G]Lord.
(Chorus)
[G]Got to lay the corner[C]stone,
[G]Got to lay the corner[D]stone,
[G]Got to lay the corner[C]stone,
[G]For my [D]Lord, for my [G]Lord.
Tips for Playing Bluegrass Gospel:
- Listen to the Masters: Study recordings of legendary bluegrass gospel artists like The Stanley Brothers, The Osborne Brothers, and The Lewis Family. Pay attention to their vocal harmonies, instrumental arrangements, and overall feel.
- Practice Your Chords: Ensure you can smoothly transition between the common bluegrass chords. Use a metronome to improve your timing.
- Focus on Harmony: Bluegrass gospel is all about tight, close harmonies. Practice singing harmony parts with others or use online resources to learn harmony techniques.
- Add Your Own Style: While respecting the tradition, don’t be afraid to add your own personal touch to the music. Experiment with different fingerpicking patterns, instrumental breaks, and vocal inflections.
- Find a Jam Session: The best way to improve your bluegrass gospel playing is to join a jam session with other musicians. This will give you valuable experience playing in a group and learning from others.
Conclusion:
Bluegrass gospel is a powerful and uplifting genre that combines the energy of bluegrass with the message of faith. By learning these songs and practicing the techniques, you can experience the joy and beauty of this music firsthand. So pick up your instrument, gather your friends, and let the harmonies ring out! Happy picking!
