A Heavenly Choir: Suzi Quatro’s “Singing With Angels” and the Enduring Power of Friendship
Ah, the late 2000s. A time when the musical landscape, for many of us who remember the grit and glamour of rock and roll’s earlier decades, felt a little… different. Yet, amidst the evolving sounds, some artists, like steadfast beacons, continued to shine, reminding us of the enduring power of genuine artistry and, perhaps even more profoundly, the bonds of friendship. And so it was with Suzi Quatro’s touching 2006 ballad, “Singing With Angels.” While it might not have scaled the dizzying heights of the pop charts in the way her earlier, electrifying hits did – a very different era, indeed, for chart performance – this song found its own special place, resonating deeply with fans who cherished her authenticity and, more specifically, those who understood the heartfelt narrative woven into its very fabric. It was a track that, while perhaps not a major chartbuster, certainly made waves within the rock community and among her dedicated following, a testament to her continued relevance and beloved status.
The story behind “Singing With Angels” is one of profound poignancy and a beautiful tribute to a lost friend. The song was written by Suzi Quatro herself, a deeply personal offering penned in memory of her long-time friend and collaborator, the legendary British DJ and music impresario, Robbie Vincent. Vincent, a true pioneer in British radio, particularly known for his soulful broadcasts on Radio London and later Jazz FM, had passed away in 2005. His influence on the music scene, especially in championing soul, funk, and jazz, was immense, and his friendship with Suzi spanned decades. To lose such a kindred spirit, a confidant and a supporter, would undoubtedly leave a void, and “Singing With Angels” became Suzi’s eloquent and deeply emotional response to that loss. It wasn’t just a song; it was a eulogy, a whispered conversation with someone dearly missed, a testament to a bond that transcended the earthly realm.
The meaning of “Singing With Angels” is therefore multifaceted, yet at its core, it’s a song about grief, remembrance, and the enduring nature of love and connection. It speaks to the pain of absence, the yearning for someone who is no longer physically present, but whose spirit continues to resonate. The titular “angels” are not just a metaphorical heavenly choir; they represent the peace and solace that Suzi envisions for her friend, a comforting thought that he is in a better place, surrounded by beauty and harmony. But beyond the immediate grief, the song also carries a profound sense of gratitude for the friendship itself. It’s a reflection on shared memories, laughter, triumphs, and even challenges – all the threads that weave the tapestry of a deep and meaningful relationship. For many of us who have experienced similar losses, the lyrics evoke a powerful sense of empathy, reminding us that while sorrow is inevitable, the love and impact of those we’ve lost remain with us, guiding us, inspiring us, and sometimes, even in our quiet moments, making us feel as though they are indeed “singing with angels.”
This track, found on her album “Back to the Drive”, which was released in 2006, further solidifies Suzi Quatro’s reputation not just as a fierce rock and roll pioneer, but also as a sensitive and introspective songwriter. While many remember her for the raw energy of “Can the Can” or “Devil Gate Drive,” “Singing With Angels” showcases a different facet of her artistry, a tender vulnerability that is equally compelling. It’s a reminder that true artists are not confined to a single genre or a single emotion; they are capable of expressing the full spectrum of human experience. And for us, the listeners, especially those of a certain vintage, it’s a song that invites us to reflect on our own journeys, on the friends we’ve cherished, the farewells we’ve whispered, and the hope that, somewhere, they too are “singing with angels,” their melodies a timeless echo in the grand symphony of life. It’s a beautiful, melancholic, yet ultimately uplifting piece that proves Suzi Quatro’s enduring legacy extends far beyond the stage lights and electric guitars, reaching into the very heart of human connection.