Lifes Railway To Heaven
View chords used in this chart
Life's Railway to Heaven
recorded on the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band's album, Will the Circle Be Unbroken
Volume 2; sang by Johnny Cash
I'm not sure if this is the same key as the recording, but I'm pretty sure
it's the same time and same progressions. There are multiple instrumentals
in it, but if I remember correctly, they all cover the verse and chorus
parts. (I have been capoing at the 3rd fret so it would be in Bb.) 4/4 time.
G C G
Life is like a mountain railway with an Engineer that's brave
A7 D
we must make the run successful from the cradle to the grave
G C G
heed the curves the hills the tunnels, never falter, never fail
D7 G
keep your hand upon the throttle and your eye upon the rail
C G
(CHORUS:) Blessed Savior, Thou wilt guide us
A7 C
till we reach that blissful shore
G C G D7 G
where the angels wait to join us in God's praise forevermore
verse 2
As we roll along the mainline, there'll be storms and there'll be night
there'll be sidetracks unexpected on the left and on the right
but with the straight always before us and our hearts upon the prize
there'll be no disembarkation until we reach paradise
(CHORUS)
How to play Lifes Railway To Heaven
Use the controls above to change the key and text size. Follow the highlighted chords while listening, then practice each section slowly before playing at the original tempo.
What is the starting chord?
The first identified chord is Bb. You can transpose without leaving the page.
Can I play it on guitar or keyboard?
Yes. The chord progression works on acoustic guitar, electric guitar and keyboard. Adapt the voicings to your instrument and level.