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Rock My Soul Traditional

 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.

EADGBEXX D
EADGBEX A7
EADGBEX A
Verse 1 - Solo
D 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 - Duet
D 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 - Everyone
D 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 - Solo
D 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 - Duet
D 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 - Everyone
D 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.
Bridge
D Rock my soul.A7 Rock my soul.D Rock my soul. RockA7 myD soul.
Combined Verses
D 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.
Reprise
D 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.