About the song
‘Seven Spanish Angels’ – a song that resonates with the depth and emotion of a classic Western tale, sung by none other than the legendary **Willie Nelson**. This isn’t just a song; it’s a narrative, a miniature epic that unfolds in the vast, often unforgiving landscape of the American Southwest. Nelson’s collaboration with Ray Charles brings a soulful richness to the track, blending country and gospel in a way that feels both timeless and deeply moving.
The song, released in 1984, tells the story of two lovers on the run, facing their final stand against the law. It’s a tale of love, sacrifice, and divine intervention, all wrapped up in Nelson’s distinctive, weathered vocals. The lyrics paint a vivid picture:
* “There were seven Spanish angels
* At the altar of the sun
* They were praying for the lovers
* In the valley of the guns”
These opening lines set the stage for a story that’s both intimate and grand, personal and universal. The imagery of Spanish angels adds a layer of spiritual depth, suggesting that even in the midst of violence and despair, there’s a sense of hope and redemption.
**Willie Nelson’s** delivery is key to the song’s enduring appeal. He doesn’t just sing the words; he embodies them, conveying the weight of the story with every note. His voice, with its unique blend of tenderness and grit, brings a sense of authenticity to the narrative, making it feel like a tale passed down through generations.
The arrangement of “Seven Spanish Angels” is also noteworthy. The blend of country instrumentation with gospel-inspired harmonies creates a soundscape that’s both haunting and uplifting. The song builds to a powerful climax, with the chorus soaring like a prayer, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.
In a career filled with iconic songs, “Seven Spanish Angels” stands out as a testament to **Willie Nelson’s** ability to tell stories that touch the heart and soul. It’s a song that speaks to the power of love, the inevitability of fate, and the enduring hope for redemption. It’s a song that has and will stand the test of time.
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
