I Will Wait – Mumford & Sons’ Anthemic Strummer That Packs Power on Ukulele

Why this high-octane folk hit is a jam session favorite — and how a solid mid-priced uke helps you match the energy and clarity of this stadium-sized song

When I Will Wait dropped in 2012, Mumford & Sons took their banjo-infused, foot-stomping folk sound to new heights. The song became an instant crowd-pleaser — with its rich harmony, pounding rhythm, and dramatic dynamic shifts. While originally played on guitar and banjo, this anthem adapts beautifully to ukulele, especially with the right tonewood, action, and clarity.

Whether you’re fingerpicking the intro or launching into the soaring chorus, a mid-priced uke makes it easier to sound articulate, balanced, and emotionally present — even in a small acoustic setting.

🚐 Folk-Rock, Arena-Sized Heart

The band described the song as a reflection on patience, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal — themes that resonated with fans and made it a lasting favorite for singalongs, weddings, and intimate covers.

“And I will wait, I will wait for you…”
On uke, it becomes a heart-forward strum with surprising power.

🎶 Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser on Ukulele

• Uses familiar chords (C, F, Am, G) with high-energy strumming

• Great for practicing build-and-release dynamics

• Sounds cleanest with a uke that holds tuning and intonation under stress

• Works beautifully for fingerstyle intro and full-chord chorus strums

🎸 Looking for an instrument worthy of this emotionally rich song? Our Mid-Priced Ukuleles Collection ($500–$1000)includes models ideal for expressive, high-energy folk playing.

🎯 Playing Tip: Start Light, Finish Strong

Use light fingerpicking or single-note plucks in the verses, then ramp up with aggressive down-up strums in the chorus. A uke with responsive tonewood like spruce or acacia and good string spacing will make transitions between styles feel seamless.

A strong build and proper setup will prevent buzzing — essential for high-speed sections.

🔗 Sources

• SongFacts – I Will Wait

• NPR – Mumford & Sons Interview

• Ultimate Guitar – Ukulele Tab