Introduction:
Released in 1962, Waltz Of The Angels is not a solo performance by country music legend George Jones, but a tender duet with another country music favorite, Margie Singleton. This collaborative effort falls under the umbrella of the classic country music genre, a genre known for its focus on storytelling through poignant lyrics and often backed by instruments like guitars, steel guitars, and fiddles.
Waltz Of The Angels originated not with Jones or Singleton, but with songwriters Dick Reynolds and Jack Rhodes. The duet itself came about as part of a larger project, the 1962 album titled Duets Country Style. This album wasn’t just a collection of random pairings; Jones and Singleton were already established artists with successful careers. Singleton, known for her powerful vocals, had hits like “A Poor Man’s Roses” and “Your Heart Turned Left, Again,” while Jones, nicknamed “The Possum” for his distinctive voice, was racking up hits with songs like “White Lightning” and “Tender Years.” Their pairing was a strategic move by producer Shelby Singleton (who also happened to be Margie’s husband) to capitalize on the already existing popularity of both singers.
Waltz Of The Angels wasn’t the only success story on the Duets Country Style album. Another track, “Talk About Lovin’,” also received airplay, but Waltz Of The Angels was the true breakout hit. The song climbed the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, reaching a very respectable #11 spot in 1962. This wasn’t just a minor accomplishment; the Billboard charts are a key indicator of a song’s popularity within the country music industry. While it may not have reached the very top of the charts, achieving a Top 20 position solidified Waltz Of The Angels as a hit song.
The song’s success wasn’t just about its chart ranking. Waltz Of The Angels resonated with listeners. The duet format itself is a departure from Jones’s usual solo performances, and the gentle sway of the waltz rhythm creates a melancholic atmosphere. While details about the exact meaning of the lyrics are not publicly available, the title and the overall tone point towards a theme of loss and love, a theme that is common in country music and that continues to resonate with fans today. Waltz Of The Angels became a signature song for both Jones and Singleton, and it stands as a testament to the power of country music duets to deliver emotional impact.