About the song
“Let Her Fly” by Tammy Wynette is a poignant and empowering country ballad that was released in 1979 as part of her album “Til I Can Make It On My Own.” Known for her emotive voice and deep connection to the themes of heartbreak and personal strength, Tammy Wynette explores the complex nature of love, independence, and letting go in this timeless song.
The song’s narrative centers around a woman who recognizes the necessity of letting her partner go, despite the deep love they share. “Let Her Fly” captures the emotional struggle that accompanies the realization that love cannot always hold two people together when they need to follow separate paths. The lyrics reflect the selflessness and sacrifice of letting someone go for their own personal growth and freedom, acknowledging that true love means giving the other person the space they need to live their own life. This is a common theme in Tammy Wynette’s music, where the struggles and complexities of relationships are explored with a blend of vulnerability and strength.
The track was released as part of “Til I Can Make It On My Own,” an album that was notable for showcasing Tammy Wynette’s ability to adapt to the evolving sound of country music while staying true to her roots. The album itself marked a period of personal and professional transformation for the artist, as she was going through changes in her personal life, including her divorce from her second husband. As such, the themes of independence, loss, and resilience found in “Let Her Fly” resonate with much of what was happening in Tammy Wynette’s own life at the time.
Musically, “Let Her Fly” is a beautiful blend of traditional country instrumentation with subtle orchestral elements, a hallmark of the era’s country-pop crossover sound. The instrumentation and production allow Tammy Wynette’s emotive vocals to take center stage, creating a haunting and intimate atmosphere that mirrors the themes of the song. Her voice, rich with emotion and experience, conveys the internal conflict of the woman in the song — the battle between love and the necessity of setting the person free.
“Let Her Fly” did not just resonate with its listeners; it also had a cultural impact. In a time when country music was increasingly blending with pop influences, the song’s message of independence and self-realization connected with a broader audience. It became an anthem for those who had to let go of something or someone they loved in order to embrace change, growth, and personal freedom. The song also contributed to Tammy Wynette’s legacy as a voice of strength for women in country music, reinforcing her position as one of the genre’s most iconic and influential figures.
The song also helped solidify Tammy Wynette‘s reputation as “The First Lady of Country Music,” a title she had earned due to her ability to capture the emotional heart of the country genre. While “Stand by Your Man” remains her signature song, “Let Her Fly” is equally important in reflecting her ability to portray a range of emotions, from vulnerability to empowerment. It demonstrates her versatility as an artist and her deep understanding of the complexities of human relationships.
In conclusion, “Let Her Fly” is a standout song in Tammy Wynette’s impressive catalog, offering a delicate yet powerful portrayal of love, sacrifice, and personal growth. Released as part of “Til I Can Make It On My Own,” it exemplifies the heart of Tammy Wynette’s songwriting and her ability to connect with listeners through her poignant storytelling. With its themes of letting go and the emotional strength that comes with it, the song continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the challenges and beauty of allowing someone to follow their own path, even when it means saying goodbye.
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Lyrics
There’s a wreath on the door, she don’t live here no moreAs of today, she flew homeAnd we’ve all gathered here in sorrow and tearsIt won’t be the same with her goneThere’s a place on the hill that’s peaceful and stillWhere she’ll sleep beside daddy againThe old family tree is shedding its leavesBut we’ll all meet in heaven againOh, she’s an angel, let her fly, let her flyShe’s gone home to glory, to her home in the skyWhen God sees her coming, heaven’s choir will smileAnd sing, “Oh, she’s an angel, let her fly, let her flyOh, she’s an angel, let her fly”She used to rock me when I was a childSing “Rock of ages” and “In the sweet by and by”Her life wasn’t easy, oh, but how hard she triedYou know she’s an angel, Lord, so let her flyOh, she’s an angel, let her fly, let her flyShe’s gone home to glory, to her home in the skyWhen God sees her coming, heaven’s choir will smileAnd sing, “Oh she’s an angel, let her fly, let her flyOh, she’s an angel, let her fly, let her fly”Oh, she’s an angel, let her fly