About the song
“Angels Among Us” is a deeply moving song recorded by the American country music band Alabama. Written by Don Goodman and Becky Hobbs, the song was released in December 1993 as a Christmas single from their album *Cheap Seats*. The track has gained a special place in many listeners’ hearts, resonating with themes of hope and comfort. It charted twice on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts and is well-remembered for its uplifting message.
The song features heartfelt backing vocals from the Sanctuary Choir and Young Musicians Choir of the First Baptist Church of Fort Payne, Alabama, adding a soulful and communal touch. Its emotional depth is reflected in its lyrics, which speak to the presence of angels in our lives, offering guidance and support through difficult times. Randy Owen, the lead singer of Alabama, has mentioned that the band received numerous letters from around the world, expressing how the song had been a blessing to many listeners.
In addition to its chart success, “Angels Among Us” was performed by Randy Owen at the funeral of his close friend, Dale Earnhardt, Sr., in 2001, underscoring the song’s personal and emotional significance. A live recording of the song is included in Alabama’s 2014 release *Angels Among Us: Hymns and Gospel Favorites*.
Critical reception of the song has been positive, with Tom Roland of *New Country* magazine praising its heartfelt nature while noting that it avoids becoming overly sentimental. The song has been covered by several artists, including Becky Hobbs on her 1994 album *The Boots I Came to Town In*, and Demi Lovato, who released a version in support of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting victims in 2012. On December 5, 2017, a host of country stars, including Scotty McCreery and Carly Pearce, performed a version to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Kristin Chenoweth also sang the song with The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square in a 2018 Christmas concert, and Chris Rupp released an a cappella version featuring Tim Foust in 2018.
“Angels Among Us” remains a powerful reminder of the comfort and support that can be found in faith and community.
Video
Lyrics
I was walkin’ home from school on a cold winter day
Took a shortcut through the woods, and I lost my way
It was gettin’ late, and I was scared and alone
But then a kind old man took my hand and led me home
Mama couldn’t see him, but he was standin’ there
And I knew in my heart, he was the answer to my prayers
Oh I believe there are angels among us
Sent down to us from somewhere up above
They come to you and me in our darkest hours
To show us how to live, to teach us how to give
To guide us with the light of love
When life held troubled times, and had me down on my knees
There’s always been someone there to come along and comfort me
A kind word from a stranger, to lend a helpin’ hand
A phone call from a friend, just to say I understand
And ain’t it kind of funny that at the dark end of the road
Someone lights the way with just a single ray of hope
Oh I believe there are angels among us
Sent down to us from somewhere up above
They come to you and me in our darkest hours
To show us how to live, to teach us how to give
To guide us with the light of love
They wear so many faces; show up in the strangest places
To grace us with their mercy, in our time of need
Oh I believe there are angels among us
Sent down to us from somewhere up above
They come to you and me in our darkest hours
To show us how to live, to teach us how to give
To guide us with the light of love
To guide us with the light of love