The Story Behind “Angels Among Us”

As performers in “Touch of Grace,” a Southern Gospel Trio, we love researching and sharing the stories behind the songs we sing. One song that has touched countless lives is “Angels Among Us,” a moving message that has become a staple in the Southern Gospel repertoire. The story behind its creation is as inspiring as the message it shares.

Becky Hobbs, a Nashville singer-songwriter, is the creative force behind “Angels Among Us.” Her journey to writing this song is rooted in her Christian faith, marked by a life of prayer and continually seeking God’s guidance.

In 1985, Becky was preparing for a tour with her band. During this time, she began experiencing persistent premonitions about her own mortality. These feelings were so strong that she described being led by a mysterious “force” into her front yard on her birthday. There, she heard a loud, masculine voice warning her, “Be careful, this might be your last birthday.” This warning left a deep impression on Becky, causing her to be particularly vigilant as she set out for the tour.

The following day, Becky and her band travelled to Alabama, USA, for a performance. The sense of foreboding lingered, making her acutely aware of her surroundings. After their concert, as they were driving away, Becky noticed an 18-wheeler approaching too quickly to stop at a set of traffic lights. Her driver was oblivious, but Becky’s heightened awareness prompted her to order him to stop immediately. Despite their efforts, the truck clipped the side of their van, totalling the vehicle. Miraculously, Becky and her band escaped unharmed. Shaken but safe, Becky recorded her thoughts in her journal, writing, “I believe there are angels among us.”

She was inspired to begin working on the song that would become “Angels Among Us.” The creative process was not swift; it took her seven years to develop the lyrics and melody that would convey her message. In 1993, Becky contacted fellow songwriter, Don Goodman, for help in completing the song. Together, they finalized it, and it was released in December 1993, performed by the group Alabama. The song quickly became a hit, resonating with listeners, becoming a source of comfort and hope. Its message of faith, protection, and the presence of angels in everyday life has touched hearts and inspired stories of its own.

For Becky Hobbs, the song stands as a testament to her spiritual journey and the extraordinary events she experienced. For the group that I sing with, “Touch of Grace,” sharing this story and singing this beautiful song enriches each performance, and helps us connect with our audience. The song also encourages people to share their own stories.