About the song
Willie Nelson’s “Angel Flying Too Close To The Ground” is a poignant ballad that delves deep into themes of love, loss, and longing, delivered with his trademark sincerity and soulful voice. Written solely by Nelson himself, the song first appeared on his 1980 album titled “Honeysuckle Rose,” which served as the soundtrack for the film of the same name in which Nelson starred.
While “Angel Flying Too Close To The Ground” didn’t chart as a single, the album “Honeysuckle Rose” achieved significant success, reaching the Top 20 on the Billboard 200 chart. The song, however, has garnered immense critical acclaim and has become a beloved favorite among Nelson’s extensive catalog.
The narrative of the song speaks to the bittersweet experience of loving someone deeply but feeling the pain of their untouchable nature, like an angel hovering just out of reach. Nelson’s emotive delivery and the gentle, melodic arrangement perfectly capture the song’s melancholic yet tender essence.
Nelson’s interpretation of “Angel Flying Too Close To The Ground” resonates with listeners for its raw emotional power and introspective lyrics. It showcases his ability to blend country, folk, and blues influences into a seamless musical tapestry that speaks directly to the heart.
Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists, each bringing their own interpretation to its timeless lyrics. However, Nelson’s original remains the definitive version, celebrated for its authenticity and the deep emotional connection it establishes with its audience.
In summary, “Angel Flying Too Close To The Ground” by Willie Nelson stands as a testament to his songwriting prowess and his ability to capture the complexities of human emotion through music. It remains a cherished gem in Nelson’s repertoire, cherished by fans for its beauty and poignant reflection on love’s delicate nature.
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Lyrics
If you had not a-fallen, then I would not have found you
Angel flying too close to the ground
And I patched up your broken wing
And hung around a while
Trying to keep your spirits up
And your fever down
I knew someday that you would fly away
For love’s the greatest healer to be found
So leave me if you need to, I will still remember
Angel flying too close to the ground
Fly on, fly on past the speed of sound
I’d rather see you up than see you down
So leave me if you need to, I will still remember
Angel flying too close to the ground
Leave me if you need to, I will still remember
Angel flying too close to the ground