Introduction
“Concrete Angel” resonates deeply, not just as a song but as a powerful narrative set to music. Martina McBride’s soulful delivery and the poignant storytelling pull listeners into a heart-wrenching tale of struggle and hope. This song, with its compelling message and emotive melody, stands as a testament to the power of music to raise awareness and evoke compassion.
About The Composition
- Title: Concrete Angel
- Composer: Stephanie Bentley and Rob Crosby
- Premiere Date: November 2002
- Album/Opus/Collection: Included in Martina McBride’s “Greatest Hits” compilation album
- Genre: Country
Background
Written by Stephanie Bentley and Rob Crosby, “Concrete Angel” was released by Martina McBride, a renowned figure in country music known for her powerful soprano vocals. This song, part of her “Greatest Hits” album, touches on the grave issue of child abuse, narrating the story of a young girl’s suffering and tragic fate due to domestic violence. It achieved significant chart success, peaking at number 5 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs and earning a Platinum certification (Wikipedia) (Wikipedia) (Wikipedia).
Musical Style
“Concrete Angel” is distinguished by its compelling blend of acoustic and electronic elements, with Martina McBride’s vocals powerfully conveying the song’s emotional depth. The arrangement includes acoustic guitar, piano, synthesizer, and subtle drumming, which together create a poignant soundscape that enhances the song’s narrative impact.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Concrete Angel” tell a story of neglect and abuse through the eyes of a young girl named Angela. The song details her painful daily life, culminating in a tragic and fatal act of violence. This narrative is both a reflection on the often-overlooked signs of abuse and a call to action to protect vulnerable children.
Performance History
“Concrete Angel” is one of McBride’s most impactful songs, often highlighted in her live performances. The song’s powerful message and McBride’s emotive delivery make it a staple in her concerts, resonating deeply with audiences.
Cultural Impact
The song’s powerful message about child abuse has made it an anthem for awareness on the issue, featured in various campaigns and educational materials. Its music video, which ends with a call to report abuse, received a Grammy nomination and has been influential in promoting social change (Wikipedia).
Legacy
“Concrete Angel” remains a significant work in Martina McBride’s career and in the landscape of country music. Its emotional depth and social commentary continue to engage and inspire new generations of listeners, maintaining its relevance and impact.
Conclusion
“Concrete Angel” is more than just a song; it’s a poignant reminder of the struggles that too many children face silently. I encourage everyone to listen and reflect on the powerful messages it conveys, and to explore Martina McBride’s performances of this moving piece to fully experience its emotional impact.
Video
Lyrics
She walks to school with the lunch
She packed
Nobody knows what she’s
Holdin’ back
Wearin’ the same dress
She wore yesterday
She hides the bruises with linen
And lace
The teacher wonders but she
Doesn’t ask
It’s hard to see the pain
Behind the mask
Bearing the burden
Of a secret storm
Sometimes she wishes she was
Never born
Through the wind and the rain
She stands hard as a stone
In her world that she can rise above
But her dreams give her wings
And she flies to a place where
She’s loved
Concrete angel
Somebody cries in the middle
Of the night
The neighbors hear, but they turn
Out the lights
A fragile soul caught in the hands
Of fate
When morning comes
It’ll be too late
Through the wind and the rain
She stands hard as a stone
In her world that she can rise above
But her dreams give her wings
And she flies to a place where
She’s loved
Concrete angel
A statue stands in a shaded place
An angel girl with an upturned face
A name is written on a polished rock
A broken heart that the world forgot
Through the wind and the rain
She stands hard as a stone
In her world that she can rise above
But her dreams give her wings
And she flies to a place where
She’s loved
Concrete angel