About the song
“Buy Me a Rose,” a poignant ballad written by Jim Funk and Erik Hickenlooper, became a defining hit for Kenny Rogers in 1999, marking a significant milestone in his career. Released as the third single from his album *She Rides Wild Horses*, the song swiftly climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart in May 2000, showcasing Rogers’ enduring appeal and artistry. At the age of 61, Rogers reclaimed the spotlight, becoming the oldest country artist to achieve a number one hit, a record later surpassed by Willie Nelson.
The song’s narrative strikes a chord with its heartfelt lyrics, detailing a husband’s realization of his wife’s simple desires amidst material abundance. The husband, portrayed in the song, initially believes he can satisfy his wife with extravagant gifts like a three-car garage and credit cards, only to learn that she yearns for meaningful gestures like a single rose or a courteous gesture of holding doors. The lyrics resonate with honesty as the husband, revealed to be the singer himself, reflects on his journey to understand his wife’s needs and ultimately buys her a rose, symbolizing his newfound understanding and appreciation.
Adding to the song’s emotional depth are the background vocals provided by Alison Krauss and Billy Dean, whose harmonies complement Rogers’ heartfelt delivery. Their collaboration not only enriched the musical tapestry but also contributed to the song’s universal appeal, blending country sensibilities with a timeless message of love and understanding.
“Buy Me a Rose” also achieved another notable feat by being the first independently released song to top the country charts since 1987, underscoring its significance beyond its musical prowess. Its impact extended further when Luther Vandross covered the song, reaching number 13 on the Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks chart in 2004, attesting to its enduring popularity across genres and audiences.
In essence, “Buy Me a Rose” remains a testament to Kenny Rogers’ enduring legacy in country music, blending heartfelt storytelling with poignant melodies. It not only marked a personal triumph for Rogers but also resonated deeply with listeners, reminding us all of the timeless value of simple gestures in relationships amidst the complexities of life.
Video
Lyrics
He works hard to give her all he thinks she wants
Three car garage, her own credit cards
He pulls in late to wake her up with a kiss goodnight
If he could only read her mind she’d say:
“Buy me a rose
Call me from work
Open a door for me what would it hurt
Show me you love me by the look in your eyes
These are the litte things
I need the most in my life”
Now the days have grown
To years of feeling all alone
She can’t help but wonder what she’s doing wrong
Lately she’d try anything to turn his head
Would it make a difference if she’d say:
“Buy me a rose
Call me from work
Open the door for me what would it hurt
Show me you love me by the look in your eyes
These are the litte things
I need the most in my life”
And the more that he lives
The less that he tries
To show her the love that he holds inside
And the more that she gives
The more that he sees
This is the story of you
And me
So I bought you a rose
On the way home from work
To open the door to a heart that I hurt
And I hoped you noticed this look in my eyes
Cause I’m gonna make things right
For the rest of your life (rest of your life)
And I’m gonna hold you tonight
Do all those little things
For the rest of your life