What a Day That Will Be: Lyrics, Chords, and the Story Behind the Hymn
"What a Day That Will Be" is a beloved gospel hymn that speaks of the joy and anticipation of Heaven. Its simple yet powerful melody and hopeful lyrics resonate deeply with believers and non-believers alike. This post will delve into the lyrics, provide common chord progressions for guitar and other instruments, and explore the history and impact of this enduring song.
Lyrics:
(Verse 1) What a day that will be, When my Jesus I shall see, When I look on His face, The One who saved me by grace.
(Verse 2) What a day, happy day, When I’ve travelled the whole way, And all my troubles are past, And I’ve entered Heaven at last.
(Verse 3) What a day that will be, When my Jesus I shall see, And with saints I’ll sing praises, For all His love and His grace is.
(Verse 4) What a day, happy day, When I’ve travelled the whole way, And all my troubles are past, And I’ve entered Heaven at last.
(Optional Verse 5 - sometimes included) What a day that will be, When my Jesus I shall see, And I’ll be with Him forever, And we’ll be together forever.
Common Chord Progressions:
The simplicity of "What a Day That Will Be" allows for several chord progressions. Here are two popular options suitable for guitar, piano, or other instruments:
Option 1 (Simple and Common):
- Verse & Chorus: G - C - G - D
Option 2 (Slightly More Complex):
- Verse & Chorus: G - C - G - D - Em - C - G
These progressions can be adapted to fit different keys and personal preferences. Experiment with adding 7th chords or variations for a richer sound. For instance, you could use a Gmaj7 instead of a G, adding a sweeter tone.
Understanding the Chords:
- G (G Major): A major chord, often the root chord of a song in G major. Easy to play on guitar.
- C (C Major): Another major chord, often used as a dominant chord to resolve to G.
- D (D Major): Often a subdominant chord, providing a contrasting sound.
- Em (E minor): Adding a minor chord provides harmonic depth and variation.
The History and Impact:
While the precise origin of "What a Day That Will Be" is uncertain, its enduring popularity speaks to its timeless message of hope and faith. Its simple, repetitive structure makes it easy to learn and sing, contributing to its wide adoption within various Christian denominations. The song's heartfelt lyrics offer comfort and reassurance, reminding listeners of the ultimate reward awaiting believers. It frequently features in church services, gospel concerts, and personal worship.
Beyond the Chords and Lyrics:
The true power of "What a Day That Will Be" lies not just in its musical arrangement, but in its emotional resonance. It's a song that transcends musical skill; its impact comes from the heartfelt expression of faith and anticipation for a future with God. It's a testament to the power of simple, direct lyrics to convey profound spiritual meaning. Its continued popularity underscores its lasting relevance and comfort in the face of life's challenges.
