About the song
From the very first notes, “A Broken Wing” sets a scene that feels intimately familiar yet universally poignant. It’s not just a song; it’s a story, a mini-drama unfolding before our ears. McBride, with her characteristic grace and immense vocal control, takes us on a journey with a woman who finds the courage to break free from a stifling, oppressive situation. The imagery of a bird with a broken wing, initially trapped and vulnerable, is a masterful stroke of songwriting. It immediately evokes empathy and understanding, tapping into that universal human experience of feeling constrained or held back, whether by circumstance, expectation, or even our own fears.
What truly elevates “A Broken Wing” beyond a simple ballad is its profound message of resilience and self-discovery. It speaks to the quiet strength that often lies dormant within us, waiting for the right moment—or the necessary catalyst—to emerge. The narrative arc, moving from captivity to liberation, is deeply satisfying. It’s a reminder that even when circumstances seem insurmountable, the human spirit possesses an incredible capacity for recovery and flight. For those of us who have lived a little, who have weathered storms and found our own paths, the song’s message resonates with a particular clarity. It’s not about dramatic rebellion, but rather a quiet, determined assertion of one’s right to freedom and agency.
Musically, the production of “A Broken Wing” is impeccably suited to its narrative. It builds subtly, allowing McBride’s voice to be the primary storyteller. The instrumentation, while rich and full, never overwhelms the emotional core of the song. This allows listeners to truly absorb the lyrics and the emotional weight McBride imparts with every line. Her vocal performance is nothing short of masterful; she navigates the song’s emotional landscape with a nuanced precision, conveying vulnerability, pain, and ultimately, triumphant resolve. It’s a performance that doesn’t just hit the notes, it embodies the feeling.
Ultimately, “A Broken Wing” stands as a powerful testament to the enduring appeal of country music that tells a story, evokes emotion, and champions the human spirit. It’s a song that invites reflection, encourages empowerment, and reminds us that even with a broken wing, one can still learn to fly. It’s not just a classic; it’s a timeless anthem for anyone who has ever found the courage to reclaim their freedom.
Video
Lyrics
She loved him like he was
The last man on Earth
Gave him everything she ever had
He’d break her spirit down
Then come lovin’ up on her
Give a little and take it back
She’d tell him ’bout her dreams
He’d just shoot ’em down
Lord, he loved to make her cry
“You’re crazy for believin’
You’ll never leave the ground”
He said, “Only angels know how to fly”
And with a broken wing
She still sings
She keeps an eye on the sky
With a broken wing
She carries her dreams
Man, you ought to see her fly
One Sunday morning
She didn’t go to church
He wondered why she didn’t leave
He went up to the bedroom
Found a note by the window
With the curtains blowin’ in the breeze
And with a broken wing
She still sings
She keeps an eye on the sky
With a broken wing
She carries her dreams
Man, you ought to see her fly
with a broken wing
She carries her dreams
Then you ought to see her fly (with a broken wing)
