About The Song
Rory Feek, known for his deeply personal and heartfelt songwriting, joined forces with country music legend Dolly Parton to create a truly moving tribute with “One Angel.” This poignant ballad, featured on Feek’s 2021 album Gently Man, explores the complex emotions of grief, faith, and the search for meaning in the face of loss.
Inspired by the passing of Feek’s wife, Joey Martin Feek, in 2016 after a battle with cancer, the song grapples with questions of faith and the seeming unfairness of life’s tragedies. Feek’s vocals, raw and vulnerable, express the rawness of grief and the struggle to reconcile faith with the pain of loss.
“One angel, flyin’ too close to the ground. One angel, that the devil shot down. Oh, I do believe, but sometimes I don’t understand, Why some prayers ain’t answered, And one angel’s life is planned To be shorter than the rest.”
These lines capture the song’s central tension: the struggle to maintain faith while grappling with the pain of a loved one’s passing. Dolly Parton’s voice, filled with empathy and warmth, joins Feek’s in the chorus, creating a powerful harmony that amplifies the song’s emotional impact.
“One Angel” is a testament to the healing power of music and the shared human experience of grief. It’s a song that acknowledges the complexities of faith and the challenges of finding meaning in the face of loss. The collaboration between Feek and Parton adds another layer of depth, with Parton’s voice offering comfort and understanding.
Musically, the song features a simple yet evocative arrangement. Acoustic guitar, gentle piano, and subtle strings create a somber atmosphere that complements the song’s reflective tone. The vocal interplay between Feek and Parton is particularly moving, their voices blending seamlessly to create a tapestry of shared grief and enduring love.
For those seeking a song that explores the complexities of grief and faith with honesty and vulnerability, “One Angel” is a must-listen. It’s a powerful tribute to a life lost too soon and a reminder of the enduring power of love and music to provide solace in times of sorrow. So turn up the volume, let the voices of Rory Feek and Dolly Parton wash over you, and be moved by this heartfelt ballad of loss, faith, and the enduring spirit of love.