Bonnie Raitt and John Prine - Angel From Montgomery

Bonnie Raitt and John Prine – Angel From Montgomery – Live at Farm Aid, 1986.

Even with terrible acoustics, this song is so outstanding, it will always be one of the most beautiful song ever written!

Bonnie Raitt & John Prine perform “Angel From Montgomery” live at the Farm Aid concert in Austin, Texas on July 4, 1986. Farm Aid was started by Willie Nelson, Neil Young and John Mellencamp in 1985 to keep family farmers on the land and has worked since then to make sure everyone has access to good food from family farmers. Dave Matthews joined Farm Aid’s board of directors in 2001.

If you’re a fan of heartfelt, soul-stirring performances, Bonnie Raitt and John Prine’s rendition of “Angel From Montgomery” at Farm Aid in 1986 is a must-see. This iconic duo, backed by the Farm Aid house band, delivered a performance that still resonates with audiences today.

First, let’s talk about Bonnie Raitt’s impeccable vocals. Her raw, emotional delivery takes this song to a whole new level. With each note, she captures the pain and longing in the lyrics, making it impossible not to be moved by her performance. Raitt’s slide guitar skills are also on full display, showcasing her mastery of the instrument.

John Prine, the legendary singer-songwriter, brings a unique charm to the stage. His distinctive voice, filled with character and experience, harmonizes beautifully with Raitt’s. Together, they create a musical synergy that’s pure magic.

The choice of “Angel From Montgomery” for this Farm Aid performance was perfect. The song’s narrative of longing, regret, and dreams unfulfilled is deeply resonant in the context of a benefit concert for struggling farmers. The lyrics speak to the struggles of rural life, making this performance even more poignant.

What truly sets this performance apart is the palpable connection between Bonnie Raitt and John Prine. Their on-stage chemistry is electric, and you can see the mutual respect and admiration in their eyes. It’s a musical dialogue that draws you in, making you feel like you’re right there with them.

The live atmosphere at Farm Aid adds an extra layer of authenticity to this performance. You can hear the crowd’s enthusiasm and applause, creating an atmosphere that’s both intimate and powerful.

Now, it’s your turn. Watch this unforgettable performance, and share your thoughts. Did Bonnie Raitt and John Prine’s rendition of “Angel From Montgomery” at Farm Aid in 1986 touch your heart as it did mine? Leave your comments and let’s keep the discussion going!

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

Songwriters: John Prine