It’s A Beautiful Song From Two Of Our Favorite Country Music Stars; Simply Exquisite

Alan Jackson’s “The Angels Cried” is a poignant ballad that vividly captures the emotional weight of loss during the Christmas season. Released in 1993 as the third single from his “Honky Tonk Christmas” album, the song features a notable collaboration with Alison Krauss, whose harmonies add a layer of depth to the already heartfelt lyrics.

The narrative of the song centers around a tragic event occurring on Christmas Day, where a family suffers the loss of a child. The lyrics poignantly describe the grief and sorrow of the family, using Christmas imagery and the notion of angels weeping to convey the profound sadness. The song opens with a reflective tone, recounting how people traveled from various places guided by a distant star, arriving at the nativity scene. This sets the stage for the song’s central theme, blending the joyous occasion of Christ’s birth with the sorrowful event of a child’s passing.

As the song progresses, the lyrics shift to depicting the child’s passing and the reaction of the angels in heaven. The evocative lines, “The angels cried on Christmas day / They watched as the child lay / His tiny hand in his mother’s hand,” emphasize the juxtaposition of Christmas joy and the deep sense of loss. This imagery serves to underscore the idea that even celestial beings are moved by human suffering, adding a spiritual dimension to the narrative.

The chorus of “The Angels Cried” features a harmonious blend of Jackson and Krauss’ vocals, enhancing the song’s emotional impact. Their voices intertwine beautifully, reflecting the song’s message of divine sorrow and the reverent acknowledgment of Jesus as the Savior. The chorus proclaims, “He was the King, born in a manger / The angels flew from heaven to earth to bring / The wonderful news, of the Savior’s birth,” tying the theme of the song to the Christmas story’s central message of hope and redemption.

Musically, the song embraces a traditional country sound, characterized by the use of acoustic guitar, fiddle, and steel guitar. These elements contribute to the song’s nostalgic and reflective mood, complementing the lyrical content. Alison Krauss’ signature harmonies add a layer of richness to the arrangement, making the song stand out within both Jackson’s discography and the broader genre of country music.

Alan Jackson, known for his deep, resonant voice and heartfelt storytelling, brings a distinctive emotional depth to “The Angels Cried.” His ability to convey complex emotions through his music is evident in this track, showcasing his talent for blending traditional country elements with profound lyrical themes. Jackson’s career has been marked by a series of successful albums and singles, establishing him as a significant figure in the genre.

Alison Krauss, a highly acclaimed artist in her own right, is celebrated for her ethereal voice and exceptional harmonies. Her contribution to “The Angels Cried” highlights her ability to enhance a song’s emotional impact through her vocal prowess. Krauss’ career spans various genres, including bluegrass and country, and she has received numerous awards for her work, further cementing her status as a respected musician.

Overall, “The Angels Cried” stands as a testament to both Jackson’s and Krauss’ abilities to convey deep emotional truths through their music. The song’s blend of traditional country instrumentation, poignant lyrics, and harmonious vocals creates a touching narrative that resonates with listeners, particularly during the holiday season. The song’s exploration of grief and the Christmas story offers a reflective perspective on the intersection of joy and sorrow, making it a memorable and moving piece in both artists’ repertoires.