About the song
“Angel from Montgomery,” a song co-written by John Prine and performed alongside Bonnie Raitt, is a quintessential example of the melding of folk and blues influences that has come to define much of American music. Originally featured on Prine’s 1971 self-titled debut album, this poignant track has gained acclaim for its evocative storytelling and emotional depth, making it a staple in the repertoires of both artists.
John Prine, renowned for his insightful and often bittersweet lyrics, crafted “Angel from Montgomery” with a keen eye for detail and a heart full of empathy. The song tells the story of a woman trapped in a life of unfulfilled dreams and domestic monotony, capturing the universal struggle of longing for change and redemption. Prine’s original version, with its understated instrumentation and introspective delivery, quickly earned him a reputation as a songwriter of profound ability.
Bonnie Raitt, a celebrated artist in her own right, brought her unique blues-infused style to a memorable performance of “Angel from Montgomery.” Raitt’s interpretation, featured on her 1974 album *Streetlights*, added a new dimension to the song. Her soulful voice and expert guitar work infused the track with a deep emotional resonance, highlighting the universal appeal and enduring relevance of Prine’s composition.
While “Angel from Montgomery” did not chart extensively upon its initial release, its impact on music has been profound. The song has since been covered by numerous artists and remains a beloved classic within the folk and blues genres. Raitt’s rendition, in particular, helped introduce the song to a wider audience, reinforcing its place as a touchstone in American music.
The collaboration between Prine and Raitt is a testament to their mutual respect and artistic synergy. Their combined talents brought out the song’s narrative power and emotional depth, creating a version that resonates with audiences across generations. For an older and educated audience, this song represents a poignant blend of storytelling and musical artistry, showcasing the timeless appeal of both Prine’s songwriting and Raitt’s interpretation.
In summary, “Angel from Montgomery,” as performed by Bonnie Raitt and originally written by John Prine, is a powerful and enduring piece of American music. Its evocative lyrics and emotional depth highlight the exceptional talents of both artists, making it a cherished part of their respective legacies. The song’s ability to capture the complexities of human experience and its continued relevance reflect the lasting impact of Prine’s songwriting and Raitt’s performance.
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Lyrics
I am an old woman
Named after my mother
My old man is another
Child that’s grown old
If dreams were thunder
And lightnin’ was desire
This old house would’ve burnt down
At a long time ago
Make me an angel
That flies from Montgomery
Make me a poster
Of an old rodeo
Just give me one thing
That I can hold on to
To believe in this livin’
Is just a hard way to go
When I was a young girl
Well, I had me a cowboy
He weren’t much to look at
Just a free ramblin’ man
But that was a long time
And no matter how I tried
Those years just flow by
Like a broken down dam
Make me an angel
That flies from Montgomery
Make me a poster
Of an old rodeo
Just give me one thing
That I can hold on to
To believe in this livin’
Is just a hard way to go
There’s flies in the kitchen
I can hear ’em they’re buzzin’
And I ain’t done nothin’ since I woke up today
How the hell can a person
Go to work in the mornin’
And come home in the evenin’
And have nothin’ to say
Make me an angel
That flies from Montgomery
Make me a poster
Of an old rodeo
Just give me one thing
That I can hold on to
To believe in this livin’
Is just a hard way to go
To believe in this livin’
Is just a hard way to go