The Meaning Behind The Song: She Talks to Angels by The Black Crowes
Title: She Talks to Angels Artist: The Black Crowes Writer/Composer: Chris Robinson Album: Shake Your Money Maker (1990) Release Date: January 24, 1990 Genre: Rock, Blues Rock, Ballad, Acoustic Producer: George Drakoulias
The eighth track on The Black Crowes’ 1990 album Shake Your Money Maker, “She Talks to Angels” is a powerful and soul-stirring acoustic ballad written by vocalist Chris Robinson. This song tells the story of a goth girl battling addiction, specifically heroin, in the city of Atlanta. The lyrics give us a glimpse into the struggle and pain that she faces on a daily basis, as well as her connection to something greater than herself.
Meaning and Symbolism
“She Talks to Angels” is a beautifully haunting song with deep meaning and symbolism. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist of the song is a troubled individual who finds solace and comfort in talking to angels. This can be interpreted as a way of seeking guidance, protection, and understanding amidst the darkness and struggles of addiction. It also touches upon themes of loneliness, desperation, and the search for redemption.
The first verse reveals that she never openly mentions her addiction to anyone outside of her close circle. It’s something she must keep hidden, possibly due to the stigma and judgment associated with addiction. However, the chorus implies that she believes the angels she speaks to know her true self, as they specifically call her out by her name. This suggests a level of intimacy and connection that she might not find elsewhere.
In the second verse, the lyrics describe how she paints her eyes black and pulls down her shades tightly. These actions could be seen as a way to shield herself from the outside world, creating a sense of isolation and further highlighting her struggle. The smile when the pain comes can be interpreted as her resilience and ability to find moments of joy even in the midst of suffering.
The bridge emphasizes that she doesn’t know any lover, possibly indicating the difficulties she faces in forming deep and meaningful connections with others due to her addiction. However, the line “That don’t mean nothin’ to me, it means everything” suggests that despite her struggles, her connection with the angels and her own inner strength hold significant meaning to her.
The chorus and outro of the song reinforce the idea that she talks to angels and feels connected to a higher power. It’s as if these spiritual entities serve as her source of comfort, understanding, and guidance. The repetition of her name by the angels reflects the personal nature of her relationship with them, as if they truly see and understand her as an individual.
Personal Connection
As a fan of The Black Crowes, “She Talks to Angels” has always held a special place in my heart. The raw emotions conveyed through Chris Robinson’s powerful vocals and the introspective lyrics make it a song that resonates deeply with many listeners. The haunting melodies and acoustic guitar arrangement create an atmosphere that perfectly matches the somber and introspective tone of the song.
For me, this song has always symbolized the power of music as a form of catharsis and connection in times of struggle. It serves as a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always the potential for redemption, for finding solace and strength within ourselves and the world around us. The theme of finding comfort in something beyond the physical realm, be it angels or something else, adds a touch of spirituality and hope to the song.
“She Talks to Angels” is a timeless masterpiece that speaks to the human condition and our innate need for connection and understanding, especially in times of hardship. Its poetic lyrics and haunting melodies make it a song that continues to resonate with listeners even decades after its release. Through its powerful storytelling, it reminds us of the strength and resilience that can be found within ourselves, even in the face of addiction and despair.
In conclusion, “She Talks to Angels” by The Black Crowes is a song that taps into the depths of human emotions and explores themes such as addiction, spirituality, and the search for redemption. Its powerful lyrics and haunting melodies make it a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate listeners. The song serves as a reminder of the power of music to provide solace, understanding, and connection, even in the darkest of times.
