An Amazing Song From Two Of Our Favorite Country Music Icons; Truly Exquisite

“The Angels Cried” is a poignant country ballad by Alan Jackson, featuring Alison Krauss, released as a single in 1993 from his holiday album, *Honky Tonk Christmas*. The song is a blend of traditional country instrumentation and deeply emotional storytelling, resonating with listeners through its heartfelt lyrics and melody.

The song opens with a depiction of the Nativity scene, capturing the moment when visitors from afar come to witness the birth of Jesus. Jackson’s opening lines set a reverent tone, illustrating the scene with a sense of awe and wonder. The imagery of creatures gathering in silence reflects the profound significance of the event, emphasizing the sacredness of the moment.

As the narrative unfolds, “The Angels Cried” transitions to a more somber theme. It recounts a tragic event where a family experiences the loss of a child on Christmas Day. The lyrics convey a deep sense of grief, juxtaposing the joy of Christ’s birth with the family’s personal sorrow. This contrast is underscored by the recurring theme of the angels crying, symbolizing both the divine sympathy and the universal sorrow felt at the loss of a young life.

The chorus brings together the song’s central themes, with Jackson and Krauss harmonizing to emphasize the duality of the Christmas story—celebration and mourning. Their voices blend seamlessly, with Krauss’s ethereal harmonies complementing Jackson’s deep, resonant tone. This harmony adds an emotional depth to the song, enhancing its impact and highlighting the tender nature of the narrative.

Musically, “The Angels Cried” features a traditional country sound, characterized by acoustic guitar, fiddle, and steel guitar. These elements contribute to the song’s nostalgic and heartfelt quality, grounding the emotional weight of the lyrics in a familiar country music framework. The arrangement supports the storytelling without overwhelming it, allowing the lyrics and the vocal performance to take center stage.

The collaboration between Alan Jackson and Alison Krauss is particularly noteworthy. Jackson’s distinctive baritone voice pairs beautifully with Krauss’s high, clear soprano, creating a dynamic and emotionally rich performance. Krauss, known for her work in bluegrass and country music, adds a layer of purity and grace to the song, enriching the overall emotional experience.

The song’s release during the holiday season enhances its resonance with listeners, as it reflects on themes of both joy and sorrow, which are particularly poignant during this time of year. The combination of festive and somber elements captures the complexity of human emotions, making it a memorable piece for those who have experienced loss or are seeking solace during the holidays.

Overall, “The Angels Cried” stands out as a deeply moving addition to Alan Jackson’s discography and the country genre. Its combination of evocative lyrics, traditional instrumentation, and heartfelt vocal performances creates a touching tribute to the dual nature of Christmas—a time of both celebration and reflection.