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Will the Circle Be Unbroken

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

Album 1972

About this album

Sound: "A rich tapestry of traditional Americana woven with heartfelt harmonies and instrumental virtuosity."

Where they were

By the time 'Will the Circle Be Unbroken' was released in 1972, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band had already established themselves as a leading force in the country rock scene with their previous albums. This record, however, marked a significant artistic pivot as it served both as a tribute to classic country music and a collaboration with legendary artists like Doc Watson and Earl Scruggs, bringing them into the mainstream spotlight.

Why it matters

'Will the Circle Be Unbroken' is celebrated for bridging generations of American music, receiving widespread acclaim and helping revive interest in traditional folk and bluegrass. Its impact is evidenced by its reissue success, critical praise from publications like Rolling Stone, and its lasting influence on both country music artists and the Americana movement.

Essential tracks

  • "Keep on the Sunny Side" — This track beautifully encapsulates the album's spirit of optimism and resilience, showcasing the band’s tight vocal harmonies and rootsy instrumentation.
  • "Tennessee Stud" — A standout storytelling piece that highlights the band's ability to blend narrative songwriting with engaging melodies, reflecting Southern folklore.
  • "Will the Circle Be Unbroken" — The title track serves as a poignant anthem of unity and remembrance, resonating deeply within both religious and cultural contexts across generations.

Release Date

January 1, 1972

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 Grand Ole Opry Song 3:11
  2. 2 Keep on the Sunny Side 4:27
  3. 3 Nashville Blues 3:15
  4. 4 You Are My Flower 3:35
  5. 5 The Precious Jewel 4:10
  6. 6 Dark as a Dungeon 2:46
  7. 7 Tennessee Stud 4:47
  8. 8 Black Mountain Rag 2:40
  9. 9 Wreck on the Highway 3:25
  10. 10 The End of the World 3:54
  11. 11 I Saw the Light 4:20
  12. 12 Sunny Side of the Mountain 2:52
  13. 13 Nine Pound Hammer 2:52
  14. 14 Losin’ You (Might Be the Best Thing) 2:49
  15. 15 Honky Tonkin’ 2:26
  16. 16 You Don’t Know My Mind 2:45
  17. 17 My Walkin’ Shoes 2:49

Disc 2

  1. 1 Lonesome Fiddle Blues 2:43
  2. 2 Cannonball Rag 1:16
  3. 3 Avalanche 2:51
  4. 4 Flint Hill Special 2:10
  5. 5 Togary Mountain 2:28
  6. 6 Earl’s Breakdown 2:36
  7. 7 Orange Blossom Special 2:13
  8. 8 Wabash Cannonball 2:03
  9. 9 Lost Highway 3:48
  10. 10 Doc Watson & Merle Travis: First Meeting (dialogue) 1:52
  11. 11 Way Downtown 3:32
  12. 12 Down Yonder 3:46
  13. 13 Pins and Needles (in My Heart) 2:54
  14. 14 Honky Tonk Blues 2:23
  15. 15 Sailin’ On to Hawaii 2:11
  16. 16 I’m Thinking Tonight of My Blue Eyes 4:26
  17. 17 I Am a Pilgrim 3:55
  18. 18 Wildwood Flower 3:34
  19. 19 Soldier’s Joy 3:31
  20. 20 Will the Circle Be Unbroken 4:50
  21. 21 Both Sides Now 2:29

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