Introduction:
Alan Jackson’s “Angels and Alcohol,” the title track from his 2015 album, dives into themes of personal struggle, love, and the effects of addiction. This song and the album marked a significant return to traditional country sounds for Jackson, who has always been recognized for his classic approach to country music. Known for his storytelling, Jackson uses this track to discuss the complex and often painful intersection between love and addiction, singing about how the two can be difficult to balance. The lyrics caution against the destructive nature of using alcohol to cope with loneliness and loss, emphasizing how alcohol can strain relationships and drive a wedge between loved ones.
The album Angels and Alcohol, released through Alan’s label ACR/EMI, also reflects Jackson’s deep-rooted values, offering a mix of soulful ballads and upbeat tracks, all tied together by his honest, reflective songwriting. Angels and Alcohol debuted impressively on the charts, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard 200 and No. 2 on the Top Country Albums chart, demonstrating Jackson’s enduring popularity and relevance in country music. The track’s stripped-down arrangement, featuring slide guitar, fiddle, and harmonica, showcases his preference for authentic, acoustic-driven country sounds and aligns with Jackson’s established musical style.
This song and album underscored Jackson’s ability to address serious topics with simplicity and grace, resonating with listeners who appreciate the classic country ethos. “Angels and Alcohol” stands as a testament to his skill in blending deeply personal lyrics with universally relatable themes, keeping Jackson at the forefront of traditional country music for decades.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Angels And Alcohol”
I don’t think God meant for them to get along
When it takes control, you can’t love no one at all
You can’t mix angels and alcoholYou can’t blend whiskey with a good woman’s love
They don’t go together, love’s already hard enough
You think you can handle, how it feels or what it does
You can’t blend whiskey with a good woman’s love
You can’t change lonely with a bottle of wine
It might ease the heartache for one short easy time
In the end you have to face what’s hiding in your mind
You can’t change lonely with a bottle of wine
You can’t mix angels and alcohol
An angel once loved me, I traded it all
I let the bottle drive my life into a wall
You can’t mix angels, and alcohol