Alan Jackson’s “The Angels Cried”: A Timeless Christmas Ballad
Alan Jackson, a name synonymous with traditional country music, has gifted us countless heartfelt tunes over the years. Among his extensive discography, “The Angels Cried” stands out as a particularly poignant and beautifully crafted Christmas ballad. Released in 1993 as part of his Honky Tonk Christmas album, this song, featuring the soulful vocals of Alison Krauss, has become a beloved holiday classic.
Background
“The Angels Cried” is more than just a Christmas song; it’s a meditation on faith, hope, and the enduring power of love. Jackson’s rich baritone voice, paired with Krauss’s ethereal soprano, creates a harmonious blend that evokes a sense of peace and tranquility. The lyrics, filled with imagery of the Nativity scene, invite listeners to contemplate the profound significance of Christmas.
One of the most striking aspects of this song is its ability to capture both the joy and the solemnity of the holiday season. The lyrics, co-written by Harley Allen and Deborah Nims, paint a vivid picture of the first Christmas night. As the angels gather around the newborn Christ child, the song suggests that even celestial beings are moved to tears by the beauty and wonder of this event.
“And the creatures gathered ’round, and didn’t make a sound, and the angels cried,” Jackson and Krauss sing in unison. These simple yet powerful words convey a sense of awe and reverence that is both timeless and deeply personal. The song’s melody is equally evocative, with its gentle, flowing rhythm and memorable chorus.
The addition of Alison Krauss to the track elevates it to even greater heights. Her voice, with its haunting beauty, complements Jackson’s perfectly, creating a rich and textured sound. The duo’s harmonies on the chorus are particularly striking, and they give the song a sense of grandeur and solemnity.
“The Angels Cried” has become a staple of Christmas music, and for good reason. It is a song that speaks to the heart and soul, offering comfort and inspiration during the holiday season. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Alan Jackson or simply looking for a beautiful new addition to your Christmas playlist, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
They came from near, they came from farFollowing a distance star to where He layNot being sure of what it meantBut knowing it was Heaven sentThey made their wayAnd the creatures gathered ’roundAnd didn’t make a soundAnd the angels criedThe angels knew what was to comeThe reason God had sent His sonFrom up aboveIt filled their hearts with joy to seeAnd knowing of His destinyCame tears of loveAnd the creatures gathered ’roundAnd didn’t make a soundAnd the angels criedI’ve often thought about that nightAnd wondered if they realizedThat star so brightWas sent to tell all the landThe Son of God would soon becomeThe Son of ManAnd the creatures gathered ’roundAnd didn’t make a soundAnd the angels criedAnd the angels criedAnd the angels cried