About the song
**Willie Nelson** and **Ray Charles** – two names that are synonymous with American music. Their collaboration on the soulful ballad, **”Seven Spanish Angels”**, is a testament to their incredible talent and the power of their combined voices. Released in 1984, this song has become a country music staple, captivating audiences for decades.
The song paints a vivid picture of a tragic love story set against the backdrop of a violent conflict. The **”seven Spanish angels”** are a celestial choir, watching over the lovers as they face their fate. The lyrics, penned by Troy Seals and Eddie Setser, are both poignant and evocative, striking a deep chord with listeners. Nelson’s warm, weathered vocals blend beautifully with Charles’ soulful rasp, creating a rich and harmonious sound.
One of the most striking aspects of “Seven Spanish Angels” is its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. The song is both heartbreaking and hopeful, celebrating the enduring power of love even in the face of death. The imagery of the angels watching over the lovers adds a sense of otherworldly beauty and mystery to the story.
Musically, the song is characterized by its simple yet effective arrangement. The acoustic guitar provides a gentle foundation, while the pedal steel guitar adds a touch of melancholy. The interplay between Nelson and Charles’ vocals is the highlight of the arrangement, showcasing their incredible chemistry and musicality.
“Seven Spanish Angels” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but Nelson and Charles’ version remains the definitive recording. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal. It is a song that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, and it continues to resonate with listeners today.
**Key themes** explored in the song include love, loss, and the power of faith. The image of the seven Spanish angels watching over the lovers is a powerful symbol of hope and protection. The song’s message is universal: love is a force that can transcend even death.
**”Seven Spanish Angels”** is more than just a song; it’s a classic. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music to connect people on a deep emotional level.
Video
Lyrics
He looked down into her brown eyes
And said “Say a prayer for me”
She threw her arms around him
Whispered “God will keep us free”
They could hear the riders comin’
He said “This is my last fight
If they take me back to Texas
They won’t take me back alive”
There were seven Spanish Angels
At the Altar of the Sun
They were prayin’ for the lovers
In the Valley of the Gun
When the battle stopped and the smoke cleared
There was thunder from the throne
And seven Spanish Angels
Took another angel home
She reached down and picked the gun up
That lay smokin’ in his hand
She said, “Father please forgive me
I can’t make it without my man”
And she knew the gun was empty
And she knew she couldn’t win
But her final prayer was answered
When the rifles fired again
There were seven Spanish Angels
At the Altar of the Sun
They were prayin’ for the lovers
In the Valley of the Gun
When the battle stopped and the smoke cleared
There was thunder from the throne
And seven Spanish Angels
Took another angel home
There were seven Spanish Angels
At the Altar of the Sun
They were prayin’ for the lovers
In the Valley of the Gun
When the battle stopped and the smoke cleared
There was thunder from the throne
And seven Spanish Angels
Took another angel home
Alright ya’all help me now
There were seven Spanish angels
At the Altar of the Sun (Oh I believe)
They were prayin’ for the lovers (Yeah they was)
In the Valley of the Gun (Well, well, well)
When the battle stopped and the smoke cleared
There was thunder from the throne (Oh, yeah)
And seven Spanish Angels
Took another angel home
