About the song
“Angel from Montgomery,” penned by John Prine and first released on his 1971 self-titled album, stands as a poignant reflection on yearning and regret within the context of ordinary life. The song’s genesis came from Prine’s desire to explore the inner life of a middle-aged woman who feels trapped in her mundane existence, longing for escape and redemption. Inspired by Hank Williams and the allure of Montgomery, Alabama, the song’s title and setting reflect Prine’s deep-rooted admiration for country music traditions.
Since its debut, “Angel from Montgomery” has resonated widely, becoming a cornerstone of contemporary folk and Americana music. Its evocative lyrics and soulful melody have drawn numerous artists to cover it across different genres, each interpretation adding layers of emotional depth and personal resonance.
Bonnie Raitt’s 1974 rendition on her album “Streetlights” brought significant attention to the song, showcasing its ability to capture universal themes of longing and disillusionment. Raitt’s interpretation remains one of the most celebrated, praised for its tender portrayal and emotional authenticity.
Over the years, “Angel from Montgomery” has found its way into various cultural contexts, appearing in films like “Into the Wild” and television series such as “Ozark,” where its melancholic undertones underscore poignant moments of reflection and introspection. Its inclusion on Rolling Stone’s list of the “Top 500 Greatest Songs of All Time” in 2021 further solidified its cultural significance and enduring appeal.
Beyond Raitt’s influential cover, artists like Susan Tedeschi and Keller Williams have also embraced the song, each offering their unique interpretations that pay homage to Prine’s original while infusing their own musical styles and sensibilities.
As a live performance staple for artists like Holly Williams, granddaughter of Hank Williams, “Angel from Montgomery” continues to captivate audiences with its timeless themes and evocative storytelling. Its ability to traverse generations and genres underscores its status as a classic, ensuring its place in the pantheon of enduring American music.
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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