About the song
“Angel from Montgomery” by Bonnie Raitt is a timeless folk song that resonates deeply with listeners through its poignant lyrics and soulful delivery. Written by the legendary John Prine, the song first appeared on Bonnie Raitt’s 1974 album “Streetlights.”
With its heartfelt portrayal of longing and disillusionment, “Angel from Montgomery” quickly became one of Raitt’s signature songs, showcasing her exceptional vocal talent and emotional depth. The song explores themes of regret and yearning, as the narrator reflects on her life and dreams of escaping her mundane existence.
Over the years, “Angel from Montgomery” has received widespread acclaim and recognition. While it didn’t achieve significant chart success upon its initial release, it has since become a staple of folk and Americana music, earning a place in the hearts of fans around the world.
Bonnie Raitt’s rendition of “Angel from Montgomery” has earned praise from critics and fellow musicians alike, solidifying her reputation as one of the finest interpreters of contemporary folk music. Her soulful performance and heartfelt interpretation breathe new life into Prine’s timeless lyrics, creating a profound listening experience for audiences of all ages.
As one of the standout tracks on Raitt’s “Streetlights” album, “Angel from Montgomery” continues to be celebrated as a masterpiece of the genre. Its enduring popularity and universal themes ensure that it will remain a cherished classic for generations to come, serving as a reminder of the power of music to touch the soul and evoke deep emotions.
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Lyrics
I am an old woman
Named after my mother
My old man is another
Child who’s grown old
If dreams were lightning
And thunder were desire
This old house would’ve burned down
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
The years just flowed 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 there buzzin’
And I ain’t done nothing
Since I woke up today
How the hell can a person
Go to work in the morning
Then come home in the evening
And have nothing 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