Love is a beautiful and transformative experience, but it can also lead to heartache, especially when we find ourselves in relationships with people who may not be right for us. This theme of love gone wrong is explored in the poignant song “Angels Love Bad Men” by Barbara Mandrell and Waylon Jennings. The song speaks to the painful reality of falling in love with someone who doesn’t deserve the narrator’s affection, a story that many listeners can relate to.
“Angels Love Bad Men” was written by Waylon Jennings and Roger Murrah in 1987. It was included on Barbara Mandrell’s studio album Sure Feels Good, which was released in 1987. The song, which delves into the complexities of loving someone who hurts you, was released as a single in 1988 and reached #49 on the charts. Additionally, the song entered the Canadian chart at #40, signaling its international appeal.
This song was the only collaboration between Barbara Mandrell and Waylon Jennings, making it a rare and special recording. The duet highlights their vocal chemistry, with their voices blending seamlessly to convey the heartbreak of loving someone who isn’t deserving of that love. It would have been incredible to hear more songs from this powerhouse duo, as their collaboration was nothing short of magical.
The album, Sure Feels Good, was well-received, reaching #48 on the Top Country Albums chart. Along with “Angels Love Bad Men”, two other songs from the album also charted: “Sure Feels Good” and “Child Support”. Despite not being among the top hits, the album remains a notable part of Mandrell’s career, offering a mixture of heartfelt ballads and her signature blend of country and pop influences.
If you’d like to explore more about Barbara Mandrell and Waylon Jennings’ collaboration, the album, or the impact of “Angels Love Bad Men”, feel free to ask!
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