I Threw Away the Rose
Merle Haggard
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Once I lived a life of wine and roses And I drank a lot back then for one concern Success for me lay just around the corner I thought my social friends would help me make me turn But now I'm paying for the days of wine and roses A victim of the drunken life I chose Now all my social friends look down their noses 'Cause I kept the wine and threw away the rose I stood by and watched the bottle take control of me The turn I made was not the one I'd planned And I watched my social standings slip away from me While I watched the bottle slowly take command And now I'm paying for the days of wine and roses A victim of the drunken life I chose Now all my social friends look down their noses 'Cause I kept the wine and threw away the rose 'Cause I kept the wine and threw away the rose
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Written by: MERLE HAGGARD
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
11 facts about this song
Release Date"I Threw Away the Rose" was released in April 1967 as part of Merle Haggard's album "Branded Man".
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Chart PerformanceThe song peaked at number two on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart.
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SongwritingThough often associated with a classic country narrative of love lost, Haggard himself has said that the song is actually about his struggle recovering from alcoholism, symbolizing his decision to throw away his 'rose-colored glasses'.
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Genre"I Threw Away the Rose" is classified as a Country Music song, embodying many features of the Bakersfield sound which Merle Haggard was instrumental in defining.
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Cover versionsThe song has had numerous cover versions performed by other artistes over the decades, demonstrating its enduring popularity. Notable artists who've covered the song include Elvis Costello and Dolly Parton.
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Critical acclaim"I Threw Away the Rose" is widely considered one of Merle Haggard's finest songs, cementing his reputation as a country music legend.
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InfluenceThe song's introspective and personal lyrics stand as a precursor to what would later develop as "outlaw" country in the 1970s.
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Album SuccessThe album "Branded Man," which contains "I Threw Away the Rose," has been cited by critics as one of Haggard's strongest albums, showcasing his mature songwriting skills and distinctive voice.
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Haggard's Struggle with AlcoholSubstance abuse was a recurring theme in Haggard's life and music. After being released from prison, he struggled with alcoholism, even at the height of his career. "I Threw Away the Rose" is a poignant reflection of this struggle.
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Live performances"I Threw Away the Rose" was frequently included in Haggard's setlist during his live performances, demonstrating the song's popularity among fans and its importance in Haggard's repertoire.
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LegacyToday, "I Threw Away the Rose" remains one of the enduring classics of the country music genre, admired for its lyrical depth, the emotional resonance of Haggard's delivery, and its honest depiction of personal struggle.
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"I Threw Away the Rose Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 25 May 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/28124392/Merle+Haggard/I+Threw+Away+the+Rose>.
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