Soweto Sounds: Angel

A crowd favourite, Angel is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan that was released in 1997 on her Surfacing album.

The Soweto Gospel Choir’s version of this song is unique, as Zulu lyrics by the Choir’s own Mulalo Mulovhedzi are added.  By the time you get to the Zulu part; you will be soaring with the Choir!

Performing this song on tour the last few years, it never fails to draw a standing ovation from the crowd!

Lyrics:

Spend all your time waiting
For that second chance,
For a break that would make it okay.

There’s always some reason
To feel not good enough,
And it’s hard, at the end of the day.

I need some distraction,
Oh, beautiful release.
Memories seep from my veins.

They may be empty,
Oh, and weightless, and maybe
I’ll find some peace tonight.

[Chorus]
In the arms of an angel,
Fly away from here,
From this dark, cold room,
And the endlessness that you fear.
You are pulled from the wreckage,
Of the silent reverie.
In the arms of an angel,
May you find some comfort here.

So tired of the straight line,
And everywhere you turn,
There’s vultures and thieves at your back.

Just keep on twisting.
Keep on building the lies
That you make up for all that you lack.

It don’t make no difference,
Escaping one last time.
It’s easier to believe in this sweet madness,
Oh, this glorious sadness,
That brings me to my knees.

[Chorus]

You’re in the arms of an angel,
May you find some comfort here.

[Zulu Lyrics]

Hlal’ ethembeni,
Esandleni se Nkosi,
Uyi sipho esihle,
Siyabonga,
Bonga baba

English Translation
Hold on to your faith;
In the arms of The Lord;
You are a precious gift and we thank you Heavenly Father.

Song Info:

The song can be found in the Choir’s most recent release, Divine Decade album.

Zanele Ngcamu, Shimmy Jiyane, Sibongile Makgathe, Lungi Mhlongo and Rebecca Nyamane provide the lead vocals in the song.

Listen:

[audio:angel.mp3]

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