How Aerosmith’S “Angel” Almost Got Cut From Their Album But Became A Huge Hit

March 20, 2025

In the early 1990s, Aerosmith was at a crossroads. After years of rocking the music scene with hits like “Dream On” and “Dude (Looks Like a Lady),” the band was working hard on their album “Permanent Vacation.” Everyone was excited, but there was one song that seemed to be in danger of disappearing before it even had a chance to shine. That song was “Angel.” The band members were unsure about it, and whispers of cutting it from the album echoed in the studio.

The story of “Angel” began with its elegant melody and heartfelt lyrics, but during the recording process, Aerosmith’s members couldn’t seem to agree on its potential. Steven Tyler, the lead singer, felt there was something special about the song, a magic that was begging to be heard. In contrast, some bandmates thought it lacked the hard-hitting energy that Aerosmith was known for. They worried it would be a failure, just another ballad lost in the sea of rock and roll. Yet, Tyler stood firm in his belief, fighting for the song even when the doubts grew heavy.

As tensions rose within the band, Steven decided to take a step back and focus on what truly mattered: the music. He poured his heart into “Angel,” believing that if they could just give it a chance, it would resonate with their fans. After a few late nights in the studio, the band finally reached a consensus. They would keep the song, but only if they could capture the essence of what made Aerosmith great. They worked tirelessly, infusing “Angel” with powerful vocals and emotion, transforming it into one of the album’s standout tracks.

When “Permanent Vacation” was released, the world quickly saw how wrong they had been to doubt “Angel.” The song soared up the charts, becoming one of Aerosmith’s most beloved hits. Fans were captivated by its beautiful lyrics and Tyler’s passionate delivery. It was a reminder of love, hope, and resilience—qualities that resonated deeply during a time of change. The success of “Angel” not only revitalized the band’s career but also marked a turning point. They became known for their ability to blend rock and ballads, a combination that would define their sound in the years to come.

The struggle to keep “Angel” on the album taught Aerosmith a powerful lesson about belief and perseverance. It showed that sometimes the most beautiful things come from wrestling with doubt and uncertainty. The song became more than just a hit; it was a symbol of the band’s determination and love for music. As they performed “Angel” to enthusiastic crowds around the world, they often reflected on its journey, grateful for the chance to share such an important piece of their heart.

In the end, “Angel” wasn’t just a song that could have been cut; it was a reminder that every artist faces challenges and uncertainties. It encouraged Aerosmith to take risks and follow their instincts. As they continued to create music that inspired others, “Angel” served as a beacon of hope—a powerful testament to what can happen when you believe in your art and refuse to give up.