About the song
Elvis Presley: Mama Liked the Roses – A Song of Love and Remembrance
In the realm of music, few names resonate with the enduring power of Elvis Presley. The King of Rock and Roll, with his captivating voice and electrifying stage presence, left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring generations of musicians and fans alike. Among his vast repertoire of iconic songs, “Mama Liked the Roses” stands as a poignant ballad that captures the essence of love, loss, and cherished memories.
A Tribute to a Mother’s Love
Released in 1969 as part of Elvis’s From Elvis in Memphis album, “Mama Liked the Roses” is a heartfelt tribute to his mother, Gladys Presley. Written by Johnny Paycheck, the song paints a vivid portrait of a mother’s unwavering love and the impact she has on her children’s lives.
A Melody Steeped in Emotion
The song opens with a gentle piano melody, setting the stage for Elvis’s emotive vocals. His voice, imbued with tenderness and reverence, carries the weight of the lyrics, each word resonating with deep emotion.
“Oh, Mama liked the roses, she grew them in the yard But winter always came around and made the growing way too hard”
Evoking Memories of Home
As the song progresses, Elvis paints vivid imagery of his childhood home, where his mother’s love bloomed like the roses she tended to. He recalls the simple joys of family life, the warmth of her embrace, and the lessons she imparted.
“Oh, Mama liked the roses, and when she had the time She’d decorate the living room, for all us kids to see”
A Legacy of Love
The song’s chorus serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of a mother’s love, a love that transcends time and circumstance.
“When I hear the Sunday bells ringing in the morning I remember crying when she used to sing”
A Touching Tribute
“Mama Liked the Roses” is more than just a song; it’s a heartfelt tribute to a mother’s unwavering love and the profound impact she has on her children’s lives. Elvis’s emotive vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics create a tapestry of emotions, capturing the essence of love, loss, and cherished memories.
A Timeless Classic
“Mama Liked the Roses” remains a timeless classic in Elvis Presley’s repertoire, a testament to the enduring power of music to touch hearts and evoke emotions. It’s a song that resonates with listeners of all ages, a reminder of the precious bond between a mother and her child.
Video
Lyrics
“Mama Liked The Roses”
Oh, mama liked the roses she grew them in the yard
But Winter always came around and made the growing way too hard
Oh, mama liked the roses and when she had the time
She’d decorate the living room, for all us kids to see
When I hear the Sunday bells ringing in the morning
I remember crying when she used to sing
Oh, mama liked the roses but most of all she cared
About the way we learned to live
And if we said our prayersYou know I kept the family bible
With a rose that she saved inside
It was pressed between the pages
Like it had found a place to hideOh, mama liked the roses in such a special way
We bring them every Mother’s Day
And put them on her grave
Oh, mama liked the roses, mmm
Mama liked the roses