Alison Krauss’s voice with Jamey Johnson is so moving, listeners imagine it’s what angels sound like

Jamey Johnson and Alison Krauss’s live performance of “Seven Spanish Angels” at the 2015 Gershwin Prize Tribute Concert in Washington, D.C., is a stunning rendition of the classic duet originally recorded by Willie Nelson and Ray Charles. The concert, which honored Nelson’s achievements, saw the pair performing in front of Nelson himself, adding an emotional weight to the evening. The somber tone of the song, combined with the powerful vocal harmonies between Johnson and Krauss, captivated the audience, leaving a lasting impact.

Krauss’s ethereal voice, known for its delicate yet powerful delivery, paired seamlessly with Johnson’s deep, soulful tone. Their vocal chemistry brought a fresh yet respectful take on the song, making it feel both timeless and intimate. As they sang, the crowd was visibly moved, with many imagining that Krauss’s angelic vocals were a perfect fit for such a heartfelt tribute. The duo’s harmonies conveyed the song’s deep emotions, turning it into a performance that felt as if it was meant for a sacred moment.

“Seven Spanish Angels” is a song about love, loss, and the finality of life, themes that both Krauss and Johnson are adept at conveying through their music. Krauss’s tender, high notes and Johnson’s gritty, emotive delivery created a perfect contrast, allowing the song’s narrative to unfold with poignant beauty. This performance wasn’t just about hitting the right notes; it was about telling a story that resonated with the audience, especially given the significance of performing in front of Willie Nelson.

Throughout the performance, the audience could feel the weight of the song’s history and the connection both singers had to the material. Johnson, known for his deep baritone and storytelling ability, added a sense of gravitas to the performance, while Krauss’s angelic voice gave the song a hauntingly beautiful edge. Together, they created a musical moment that felt both grand and intimate, drawing the audience into the story of the two lovers described in the song.

The choice of “Seven Spanish Angels” for this event was not random. The song, originally released in 1984, has always been associated with deep emotion and a spiritual undertone. Performing it at such a prestigious event added layers of meaning, especially with Nelson in the audience. Krauss and Johnson’s version of the song served as a fitting tribute, honoring not just the original recording but also the spirit of collaboration that the song represents.

As the performance unfolded, it became clear that Krauss and Johnson were not just singing—they were embodying the very essence of the song’s themes. Their voices blended so naturally that it was easy for the audience to get lost in the music. The performance felt like a conversation between two artists who truly understood the emotional depth of the song.

For Krauss, this performance was yet another demonstration of her ability to seamlessly transition between genres. Although primarily known for her work in bluegrass and country, Krauss has always been able to adapt her voice to suit different musical styles. In this performance, she showcased her versatility, proving once again why she is considered one of the best vocalists in modern music.

Johnson, on the other hand, brought his signature soulful approach to the performance, grounding it in a way that allowed the emotional weight of the song to come through. His ability to convey raw emotion through his voice made him the perfect partner for Krauss in this duet. Together, they created a performance that was both powerful and subtle, capturing the essence of the song while adding their own unique touches.

In the end, this performance of “Seven Spanish Angels” stands out as one of the most memorable moments of the Gershwin Prize Tribute Concert. It was a fitting tribute to Willie Nelson and a powerful reminder of the enduring beauty of the song. The harmonies, emotion, and respect for the original material all came together to create a performance that was truly unforgettable.