This Beautiful Song From Two Of Our Favorite Country Music Stars; Truly Exquisite

“The Angels Cried” is a poignant song by American country music artist Alan Jackson, released in 1993 as the third single from his holiday album, *Honky Tonk Christmas*. The track is distinguished by its deeply emotional narrative and the inclusion of Alison Krauss, whose ethereal harmonies complement Jackson’s expressive vocals. The song is a ballad that tells a somber story, painting a picture of a family grappling with the tragic loss of their child on Christmas Day.

The lyrics of “The Angels Cried” begin by setting a serene and reverent scene. Jackson sings about people traveling from near and far, drawn by a distant star to witness the birthplace of Jesus. Despite their uncertainty about the true meaning of the event, the presence of the star signifies its divine importance. The imagery of creatures gathered in silent awe further emphasizes the sacredness of the moment, marking a contrast between the joyous occasion and the impending sorrow.

As the song unfolds, the narrative shifts to the somber reality of the child’s death. The lyrics convey the profound sadness experienced by the family, particularly focusing on the mother’s grief. Jackson and Krauss sing about the child’s fragile condition and the heart-wrenching sight of him lying in his mother’s arms. This portrayal highlights the emotional weight of the loss, intensified by the timing of the tragedy during the Christmas season, a time traditionally associated with joy and celebration.

The chorus of the song amplifies the emotional impact, with Jackson and Krauss harmonizing to reflect on the significance of the event. They convey the notion that even though the birth of Jesus is a moment of immense joy, the accompanying sorrow of the child’s death is felt deeply. The angels, often seen as messengers of divine joy, are portrayed as sharing in the family’s grief, their tears adding to the poignant atmosphere of the song.

Musically, “The Angels Cried” is imbued with a traditional country sound that aligns with Jackson’s style. The arrangement features acoustic guitar, fiddle, and steel guitar, all of which contribute to the song’s nostalgic and heartfelt quality. Alison Krauss’ contribution is particularly noteworthy; her harmonies add a layer of tenderness and depth to the song, enhancing its emotional resonance. Krauss is renowned for her exceptional vocal abilities and her capacity to bring a unique, haunting quality to her performances, which is evident in this collaboration.

Alan Jackson’s career is marked by his dedication to traditional country music, and “The Angels Cried” is a testament to his skill in blending narrative depth with musical craftsmanship. Known for his distinctive voice and his ability to convey genuine emotion through his songs, Jackson has remained a significant figure in country music. His work often explores themes of faith, love, and loss, and this song is a poignant example of how he uses his music to address complex and deeply felt experiences.

Alison Krauss, a prominent figure in bluegrass and country music, has a storied career characterized by her exceptional vocal talent and her numerous collaborations with other artists. Her involvement in “The Angels Cried” underscores her versatility and her ability to enhance the emotional impact of a song. Krauss’s career includes a series of successful albums and collaborations that highlight her distinctive voice and her contribution to the genre.

Overall, “The Angels Cried” stands out as a touching and reflective piece that captures both the joy of the Christmas season and the profound sorrow of personal loss. The song’s emotional depth, combined with its traditional country instrumentation and the harmonious collaboration between Jackson and Krauss, makes it a memorable and impactful addition to Alan Jackson’s discography and a poignant expression of the holiday spirit.