This Captivating Song From Two Of Our Favorite Country Music Stars; Absolutely Exquisite

“The Angels Cried” is a poignant ballad from Alan Jackson’s 1993 holiday album, *Honky Tonk Christmas*. This song, notable for its emotional depth and its feature of Alison Krauss’ harmonies, tells a sorrowful story set against the backdrop of Christmas.

The narrative of “The Angels Cried” centers around a tragic event experienced by a family on Christmas Day. It begins with the imagery of people traveling from far and wide, guided by a distant star to witness a significant event. The initial verses create a scene filled with reverence and awe, reflecting the pilgrimage of those who came to witness the birth of Jesus. The song juxtaposes this with the heart-wrenching event of a child’s death, imbuing the story with both the joy of Christ’s birth and the profound sorrow of loss.

As the song progresses, Jackson and Krauss convey the depth of the family’s grief. The verses describe the angels’ empathy and sorrow as they observe the tiny child’s passing. The imagery of angels crying emphasizes the universal sense of loss and mourning, extending beyond just the human experience to the divine realm. The lyrics poignantly capture how the angels, who once celebrated the Savior’s birth, now weep for the family’s tragedy.

The chorus amplifies the emotional impact of the song, with Jackson and Krauss harmonizing to reflect on the dual nature of the event: the joyous announcement of Christ’s birth and the sorrowful cry for the lost child. The angels’ journey from heaven to earth to herald the Savior’s arrival contrasts sharply with their sorrowful reaction to the child’s death, underscoring the complexity of emotions surrounding the Christmas story.

Musically, the song stays true to traditional country roots, featuring a blend of acoustic guitar, fiddle, and steel guitar. These instruments contribute to the song’s somber and reflective mood. Alison Krauss’ harmonies add a layer of ethereal beauty, complementing Jackson’s lead vocals and enhancing the song’s emotional resonance.

Alan Jackson, known for his deep voice and country authenticity, delivers the song with a sense of earnestness that aligns with the track’s reflective nature. His ability to convey complex emotions through music is evident in this performance, illustrating his talent for connecting with listeners on a profound level.

Alison Krauss, renowned for her distinctive voice and harmonious collaborations, brings a delicate and poignant quality to the song. Her contributions are not just background vocals but integral to the song’s emotional depth, providing a counterpoint to Jackson’s lead with her ethereal harmonies.

The song captures the essence of Christmas as a time of both joy and reflection. It serves as a reminder of the personal and collective sorrows that can accompany the holiday season. By intertwining the sacred with the sorrowful, “The Angels Cried” offers a moving exploration of the human condition and the spiritual significance of Christmas.

Overall, “The Angels Cried” is a testament to Alan Jackson’s skill as a storyteller and his ability to evoke deep emotions through his music. The collaboration with Alison Krauss enhances the song’s impact, making it a memorable and touching piece in the genre of country Christmas music.