Introduction:
Roses Are Red (My Love), a saccharine pop ballad released in 1962, launched the career of American singer Bobby Vinton and cemented his place as a teen idol of the early 1960s. The song, written by songwriting duo Al Byron and Paul Evans, became an instant smash, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart for a non-consecutive eight weeks and propelling Vinton to national stardom.
Billy Vincent, Bobby Vinton’s father and manager, also played a key role in the song’s success. Billy, recognizing the potential of “Roses Are Red (My Love),” secured a record deal for his son with Epic Records and acted as the song’s producer. With Billy’s guidance, the song received a polished pop production that resonated with a young audience.
Roses Are Red (My Love)’s lyrics are a straightforward expression of love and devotion. The song opens with the now-famous line, “Roses are red, my love,” a playful twist on the traditional children’s poem. Vinton’s smooth vocals and the song’s catchy melody create a dreamy and romantic atmosphere, perfect for capturing the hearts of young teenagers.
The impact of Roses Are Red (My Love) extended far beyond the Billboard charts. The song’s success helped establish the “teen idol” image that dominated popular music in the early 1960s. Vinton, with his charismatic persona and good looks, became a heartthrob for millions of young fans. He leveraged this popularity into a string of hit songs throughout the decade, including “Blue Velvet” and “There! I’ve Said It Again.”
Roses Are Red (My Love)‘s legacy is undeniable. The song remains a beloved classic, instantly recognizable to listeners of all ages. It serves as a reminder of a simpler time in pop music, where catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics reigned supreme. Moreover, the song’s enduring popularity speaks to the universal power of young love, a theme that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Video:
Lyrics:
Roses are red, my love, doo-roo-roo-roo
A long-long time ago, on graduation dayYou handed me your book, I signed this way
Roses are red, my love, violets are blueSugar is sweet, my love, but not as sweet as you
We dated through high school, and when the big day cameI wrote into your book, next to my name
Roses are red, my love, violets are blueSugar is sweet, my love, but not as sweet as you(As sweet as you)
Then I went far away and you found someone newI read your letter, dear, and I wrote back to you
Roses are red, my love, violets are blueSugar is sweet, my love, good luck, may God bless you(May God bless you)
Is that your little girl? She looks a lot like youSomeday, some boy will write in her book too
Roses are red, my love, violets are blueSugar is sweet, my love, but not as sweet as you
Roses are red