Introduction:
“The Angels Cried,” performed by Alan Jackson and Alison Krauss, is a touching Christmas duet that tells the story of the nativity from a unique, reflective perspective. This song, featured on Jackson’s 1993 holiday album Honky Tonk Christmas, explores the reverent emotions surrounding the birth of Jesus, suggesting that angels wept out of joy and divine awareness. Jackson’s gentle country vocals blend seamlessly with Krauss’s delicate harmonies, creating an atmosphere that underscores the song’s themes of awe and reverence.
In the lyrics, Jackson and Krauss paint a vivid scene of those who came to see Jesus in the manger—both humble onlookers and celestial beings. The song reflects on the joy mixed with a foreknowledge of Jesus’s future, suggesting the angels were both celebrating and mourning, knowing the child’s ultimate destiny. This layered emotional approach offers listeners a contemplative view on the traditional Christmas story, focusing not just on the joy of Jesus’s birth but also on the solemn realization of the life He was destined to lead.
Jackson, widely recognized for his contributions to the country and Christian music genres, invited Krauss for this duet due to her angelic voice, which added a fittingly ethereal quality to the song. Their collaboration contributed to the song’s popularity and made it a staple in many Christmas playlists. The Angels Cried continues to be cherished by fans as a song that brings a thoughtful, solemn perspective to the nativity story, emphasizing the mix of hope and solemnity that defines the Christmas season.
Video:
Lyrics:
“The Angels Cried”
(with Alison Krauss)
They came from near
They came from far
Following a distant star
To where he layNot being sure of what it meant
But knowing it was Heaven sent
They made their way
And the creatures gathered ’round
And didn’t make a sound
And the Angels cried
[Alison:]
The angels knew what was to come
The reason God has sent His Son from up above
It filled their hearts with joy to see
And knowing of his destiny
Came tears of love
And the creatures gathered ’round
And didn’t make a sound
[Both:]
And the Angels cried
[Alan:]
I’ve often thought about that night
And wondered if they realized that star so bright
[Alison:]
Was sent to tell all the land the Son of God
Would soon become the son of a man
[Both:]
And the creatures gathered ’round
And didn’t make a sound
And the Angels cried
And the Angels cried
And the Angels cried…