About the Song
Rock My Soul in the Bosom of Abraham is a traditional African American spiritual, often sung in a call-and-response style. Its repetitive structure and uplifting energy make it accessible and enjoyable for group performances.
How to Play on Guitar
This song uses just three chords: D, A7, and A. All are beginner-friendly open chords. Practice switching smoothly between them, especially from D to A7 and back, as this transition occurs frequently.
- Chord Tips:
- For D: Place your index finger on the 2nd fret, 3rd string; middle finger on the 2nd fret, 1st string; and ring finger on the 3rd fret, 2nd string.
- For A7: Use your index finger on the 2nd fret, 4th string and middle finger on the 2nd fret, 2nd string, leaving the 3rd string open.
- For A: Place your index, middle, and ring fingers on the 2nd fret of the 4th, 3rd, and 2nd strings.
Strumming Pattern
A simple down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) strumming pattern suits this song, giving it a gentle, swinging feel. Beginners may start with just down strums on each beat for simplicity.
Additional Tips
- Practice chord changes slowly, speeding up as you gain confidence.
- Tap your foot or count aloud to keep a steady rhythm.
- Sing along to help with timing and make practice more enjoyable.
With its simple chords and structure, this song is perfect for beginner guitarists and group singalongs.
Verse 1 - SoloD Rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,A7 rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,
D Rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,A oh rock-a myD soul.
Verse 1 - DuetD Rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,A7 rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,
D Rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,A oh rock-a myD soul.
Verse 1 - EveryoneD Rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,A7 rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,
D Rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,A oh rock-a myD soul.
Verse 2 - SoloD So high you can't get over it,A7 so low you can't get under it,
D So wide you can't get 'round it,A oh rock-a myD soul.
Verse 2 - DuetD So high you can't get over it,A7 so low you can't get under it,
D So wide you can't get 'round it,A oh rock-a myD soul.
Verse 2 - EveryoneD So high you can't get over it,A7 so low you can't get under it,
D So wide you can't get 'round it,A oh rock-a myD soul.
BridgeD Rock my soul.A7 Rock my soul.D Rock my soul. RockA7 myD soul.
Combined VersesD Rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,A7 rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,
D Rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,A oh rock-a myD soul.
RepriseD Rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,A7 rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,
D Rock my soul in the bosom of Abraham,A oh rock-a myD soul.