
“I’ll Fly Away” is one of those timeless hymns that seems to carry the soul on the wings of its melody. Written by Albert E. Brumley in 1929, this gospel classic has become a symbol of hope, joy, and spiritual freedom for countless listeners. Its simple yet powerful lyrics speak of a longing for a better place—a home beyond the troubles of this world. But what makes this song resonate so deeply is not just its message, but the way it captures the bittersweet yearning for peace that we all feel at some point in our lives.
The song’s history is as fascinating as its melody. Brumley was inspired by an old prison work song, “The Prisoner’s Song,” and envisioned a melody that could lift spirits higher, offering a sense of liberation. And that’s exactly what “I’ll Fly Away” does. It’s like a gentle reminder that even in the hardest of times, there’s something beautiful awaiting us beyond the horizon. Its uplifting tune has crossed over from churches to mainstream music, covered by countless artists from Johnny Cash to Alison Krauss, and sung in moments of worship, celebration, and even grief.
“I’ll Fly Away” is more than a hymn; it’s a heartfelt promise wrapped in a melody. Whether it’s sung in a church choir or softly hummed by a loved one, the song’s message is always the same: there’s freedom in faith, and someday, we’ll soar beyond our earthly troubles. It’s no wonder that this hymn is often chosen at funerals—it offers a kind of comfort that words alone can’t convey. It’s not just a goodbye, but a farewell filled with hope
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Lyrics
Some glad morning when this life is o’er
I’ll fly away
To a home on God’s celestial shore
I’ll fly away.
I’ll fly away, oh glory,
I’ll fly away
When I die, hallelujah, by and by
I’ll fly away.
When the shadows of this life grow have grown
I’ll fly away
Like a bird from prison bars has flown
I’ll fly away.
I’ll fly away, oh glory,
I’ll fly away
When I die, hallelujah, by and by
I’ll fly away.
Just a few more weary days and then
I’ll fly away
To that land where joy shall never end
I’ll fly away.
I’ll fly away, oh glory,
I’ll fly away
When I die, hallelujah, by and by
I’ll fly away.
I’ll fly away, oh glory,
I’ll fly away
When I die, hallelujah, by and by
I’ll fly away
When I die, hallelujah, by and by