Flowers have always been a popular subject for artists, writers, and musicians. Their beauty, fragrance, and symbolic significance have inspired countless works of art throughout history. In music, flowers have been celebrated in songs for their elegance, grace, and delicate nature. From classical music to contemporary pop, the theme of flowers has appeared in many genres and styles, providing listeners with a range of emotions, messages, and memories. Whether it’s the joy of spring, the longing of summer, the nostalgia of autumn, or the serenity of winter, songs about flowers have the power to evoke strong feelings and connect us with the natural world. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most memorable and meaningful top 20 songs about flowers, including the stories behind them, the artists who wrote and performed them, and the cultural and historical context in which they were created. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the music as we delve into the world of songs about flowers.
1. “Crimson Clover Tommy James the Shondells” by Tommy James and The Shondells
“Crimson and Clover” is a pop rock song by Tommy James and The Shondells, released in 1968. The song became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. “Crimson and Clover” is known for its psychedelic sound and dreamy, haunting vocals, creating a unique atmosphere that still resonates with audiences today. The song’s lyrics are somewhat cryptic, with references to love and longing, but the flower imagery in the title adds a touch of nature and beauty to the overall mood. With its infectious beat and memorable melody, “Crimson and Clover” remains a classic of the era and a staple of oldies and classic rock radio stations.
2. “Lotus Flower” by Radiohead
“Lotus Flower” is a song by the British rock band Radiohead, taken from their eighth studio album “The King of Limbs” (2011). The song is characterized by its electronic beats and frontman Thom Yorke’s signature falsetto vocals, as well as its abstract and cryptic lyrics. The lotus flower is often used as a symbol of spiritual awakening and enlightenment, and its presence in the song’s title adds a layer of meaning to the already mysterious and otherworldly atmosphere. The music video for “Lotus Flower” features Yorke performing an interpretive dance, further emphasizing the song’s ethereal and experimental nature. The song has been well received by both fans and critics, and is considered a standout track from an album known for its innovative sound and production.
3. “For The Roses” by Joni Mitchell
“For The Roses” is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, released in 1972. The song is taken from Mitchell’s fourth studio album of the same name and showcases her intricate and evocative lyrics, as well as her distinctive folk-inspired vocal style. The song’s title refers to the delicate beauty and ephemeral nature of roses, and the lyrics reflect on themes of disillusionment, lost love, and the passage of time. “For The Roses” is considered one of Mitchell’s most introspective and personal songs, and it has been praised for its haunting melody and poignant message. The song has been covered by several artists over the years, and its legacy continues to influence and inspire musicians today. With its timeless themes and soulful delivery, “For The Roses” remains a highlight of Mitchell’s illustrious career.
4. “Scarborough Fair” by Simon and Garfunkel
“Scarborough Fair” is a traditional English ballad made popular by Simon & Garfunkel in the 1960s. The song tells the story of a young man who journeys to the Scarborough Fair, a medieval festival in the town of Scarborough, England. The man meets a former love and makes a series of impossible demands of her, including the ability to “cure his heart” and “grow him a beard.” The song is known for its haunting melody and intricate harmonies, as well as its use of a drone-like musical structure that creates a melancholic atmosphere. “Scarborough Fair” has become a classic folk song, and Simon & Garfunkel’s version is considered one of their signature tracks. The song’s legacy continues to endure, with numerous covers and adaptations by artists across various genres. With its timeless themes of love and loss, “Scarborough Fair” remains a beloved and enduring song that has captivated audiences for generations.
5. “Kiss From A Rose” by Seal
“Kiss From a Rose” is a song by British singer Seal, released in 1994. The song became a massive hit, reaching number one in several countries and winning three Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year. “Kiss From a Rose” is known for its soulful and tender vocal delivery, as well as its lush and atmospheric production. The song’s lyrics describe the tenderness and vulnerability of love, and the rose imagery in the title adds a touch of romance and beauty to the overall mood. The song has been covered by many artists and has appeared in numerous films and television shows, further cementing its place as one of the most popular and enduring love songs of the 1990s. With its powerful and emotional message, “Kiss From a Rose” remains a classic of the era and a staple of soft rock and R&B radio stations.
6. “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” by Pete Seeger
“Where Have All the Flowers Gone” is a song by American folk singer Pete Seeger, first recorded in the 1950s. The song is a simple and haunting ballad that tells the story of a soldier asking where the flowers have gone, as he remembers their beauty from his youth. The song’s lyrics are often interpreted as a commentary on the futility and tragedy of war, and the flowers are used as a symbol of innocence and hope that is lost in the violence and destruction of conflict. “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” has become a classic of the folk genre, and has been covered by many artists across various musical styles. The song’s powerful and poignant message continues to resonate with audiences today, and it remains one of Seeger’s most famous and enduring works. With its simple and timeless melody, “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” is a classic protest song that has inspired generations of musicians and activists.
7. “Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran
“Supermarket Flowers” is a song by English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, released in 2017. The song is a tender and emotional ballad that was inspired by the death of Sheeran’s grandmother. The lyrics describe a mother’s funeral and the singer’s reflection on her life, as he recalls her buying supermarket flowers for her home. The song is characterized by its simple and heartfelt lyrics, as well as its stripped-down piano-based arrangement. “Supermarket Flowers” has been praised for its touching tribute to Sheeran’s grandmother, and for its ability to convey a deep sense of loss and love through its heartfelt and direct lyrics. The song has become one of Sheeran’s most beloved tracks, and has been covered by many artists across various musical genres. With its powerful and emotional message, “Supermarket Flowers” remains one of the standout tracks from Sheeran’s discography and a touching tribute to the memories of loved ones who have passed.
8. “Dead Flowers” by The Rolling Stones
“Dead Flowers” is a song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1971 on their album “Sticky Fingers.” The song is a classic country-inspired ballad that tells the story of a man who sends dead flowers to his former love as a cruel joke. The lyrics are characterized by their dark humor and biting wit, and the song’s mellow country-inspired arrangement adds a sense of irony to the overall mood. “Dead Flowers” has become one of The Rolling Stones’ most popular tracks, and is considered a classic of their bluesy and country-inspired repertoire. The song’s use of dark humor and biting wit have made it a favorite among fans of the band, and its memorable melody and arrangement have earned it a place as one of the standout tracks from “Sticky Fingers.” With its classic rock and country influences, “Dead Flowers” remains a beloved and enduring song that continues to captivate audiences today.
9. “The Rain, The Park, and Other Things” by The Cowsills
“The Rain, The Park, and Other Things” is a song by American pop band The Cowsills, released in 1967. The song is a cheerful and upbeat pop track that celebrates the simple pleasures of life, such as spending time with loved ones, enjoying the rain and sun, and admiring flowers. The song’s memorable and catchy melody, as well as its bright and joyful lyrics, have made it a favorite among fans of 1960s pop music. “The Rain, The Park, and Other Things” became a hit for The Cowsills, reaching the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of the most popular songs of the year. The song has been covered by many artists across various musical styles and remains a beloved classic of the pop genre. With its upbeat and cheerful message, “The Rain, The Park, and Other Things” is a celebration of life’s simple joys and continues to bring a smile to the faces of audiences today.
10. “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” by Poison
“Every Rose Has Its Thorn” is a power ballad by American glam metal band Poison, released in 1988. The song is a sentimental love song that reflects on the bittersweet nature of love and relationships. The lyrics describe a failed relationship and the singer’s regret over the mistakes he made. The song’s powerful guitar riff and emotional vocal delivery have made it a classic of the glam metal genre. “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” became one of Poison’s biggest hits, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning the band a place as one of the leading acts of the hair metal movement of the late 1980s. The song has been covered by many artists across various musical styles and remains a beloved classic of the power ballad genre. With its sentimental message and powerful delivery, “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” is a timeless tribute to the complexities of love and continues to move audiences to this day.
11. “Bed Of Roses” by Bon Jovi
“Bed of Roses” is a power ballad by American rock band Bon Jovi, released in 1992. The song is a romantic ballad that reflects on the power of love and the comfort it can bring. The lyrics describe a peaceful and serene place where the singer finds solace in his love, and the song’s soft and tender melody adds to the overall mood of the track. “Bed of Roses” became one of Bon Jovi’s biggest hits, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning the band widespread critical acclaim. The song has been covered by many artists across various musical styles and remains a beloved classic of the power ballad genre. With its tender message and emotional delivery, “Bed of Roses” is a timeless tribute to the power of love and continues to touch the hearts of audiences today.
12. “Fading Like a Flower” by Roxette
“Fading Like a Flower” is a pop rock song by Swedish duo Roxette, released in 1991. The song is a upbeat, catchy tune that reflects on the fleeting nature of love and relationships. The lyrics describe a relationship that is slowly falling apart, with the singer comparing the fading love to a flower withering away. Despite its melancholic message, “Fading Like a Flower” is a upbeat and energetic song, driven by its powerful guitar riffs and catchy chorus. The song became a hit for Roxette, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries, and earning the band widespread critical acclaim. With its catchy melody and powerful delivery, “Fading Like a Flower” is a timeless tribute to the fleeting nature of love and continues to be a beloved classic of the pop rock genre.
13. “Run For The Roses” by Dan Fogelberg
“Run for the Roses” is a folk rock song by American singer-songwriter Dan Fogelberg, released in 1982. The song is a mid-tempo ballad that reflects on the fleeting nature of success and fame. The lyrics describe the fast-paced world of horse racing and how quickly the runners can rise and fall. Despite its melancholic message, “Run for the Roses” is a beautifully crafted song, driven by its delicate acoustic guitar melody and Fogelberg’s soulful vocals. The song became a hit for Fogelberg, reaching the top 40 on the charts and earning the singer widespread critical acclaim. With its tender message and emotional delivery, “Run for the Roses” is a timeless tribute to the fleeting nature of success and continues to be a beloved classic of the folk rock genre.
14. “Sunflower” by Post Malone, Swae Lee
“Sunflower” is a hip-hop and R&B song by American rappers Post Malone and Swae Lee, released in 2018. The song is a cheerful and upbeat track that reflects on the power of positivity and growth. The lyrics describe a relationship that is blooming like a sunflower, despite challenges and obstacles. “Sunflower” features a cheerful and catchy melody, driven by its infectious beat and the rappers’ smooth delivery. The song became a massive hit, reaching number one on the charts and earning widespread critical acclaim. With its upbeat message and catchy melody, “Sunflower” is a joyful tribute to the power of growth and positivity and continues to be a beloved track in the hip-hop and R&B genres.
15. “(Nothing But) Flowers” by Talking Heads
“(Nothing But) Flowers” is a rock song by American band Talking Heads, released in 1988. The song is a wistful commentary on the relationship between humans and nature and the effects of modern civilization. The lyrics describe a world in which all of the buildings and technology have been replaced by flowers and nature, but the protagonist is still unhappy and yearns for the conveniences of modern life. “(Nothing But) Flowers” features a unique blend of rock, pop, and world music influences, driven by its intricate instrumentation and David Byrne’s distinctive vocals. The song became a hit for Talking Heads and continues to be a beloved classic of the band’s extensive discography. With its thought-provoking message and creative musical style, “(Nothing But) Flowers” is a timeless tribute to the complexities of the human relationship with nature.
16. “Daisies” by Katy Perry
“Daisies” by Katy Perry is an upbeat, empowering pop ballad that celebrates perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. The song features Perry’s signature powerful vocals and an infectious, anthemic chorus that encourages listeners to “keep pushin'”, even when the odds are against them. The song’s music video is visually stunning, with Perry performing in a colorful field of flowers and surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The lyrics are uplifting and inspiring, reminding us to stay true to ourselves and never give up on our dreams. “Daisies” is a feel-good anthem that is sure to bring a smile to your face and lift your spirits.
17. “Plastic Roses” by Jessica Sanchez
“Plastic Roses” by Jessica Sanchez is a heartfelt ballad that explores the themes of love, heartbreak, and healing. The song features Sanchez’s powerful and soulful vocals, which are backed by a simple but moving piano melody. The lyrics are introspective and vulnerable, as Sanchez sings about the pain of a lost love and the process of learning to move on. The music video for “Plastic Roses” is equally as moving, featuring Sanchez singing amidst a stunning natural landscape. The song is a powerful and emotional testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of learning to heal and move forward after a difficult breakup.
18. “Wildflowers” by Tom Petty
“Wildflowers” by Tom Petty is a classic rock ballad that showcases his timeless songwriting and soulful voice. The song features a folksy acoustic guitar, simple drum beats, and touching lyrics about feeling free and living life on one’s own terms. The song has become one of Petty’s signature tracks, loved by fans for its stripped-down and honest sound. The lyrics are a reminder to embrace the beauty of life’s journey, even amidst its challenges and hardships. “Wildflowers” is a heartfelt tribute to the human spirit and the joy of living a life full of adventure and self-discovery. It’s a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners decades after its release.
19. “Rose In December” by Halestorm
“Rose in December” by Halestorm is a powerhouse rock ballad that showcases the band’s signature sound, combining raw emotion with soaring vocals and heavy guitar riffs. The song’s lyrics explore the pain of heartbreak and the struggle to move on, with frontwoman Lzzy Hale delivering a powerful performance. The song builds to a crescendo, with Hale’s impassioned vocals and the driving beat of the drums and guitar creating a soundscape that is both cathartic and uplifting. The song’s music video is equally as moving, with haunting imagery that captures the emotions at the heart of the song. “Rose in December” is a standout track from Halestorm, showcasing the band’s ability to create powerful and impactful rock music.
20. “Roses” by Shawn Mendes
“Roses” by Shawn Mendes is a soulful pop ballad that showcases the Canadian singer-songwriter’s emotive vocals and introspective songwriting. The song features a gentle acoustic guitar riff, underpinned by a soft, pulsing beat, creating a warm and inviting soundscape. The lyrics explore the pain of heartbreak and the difficulty of moving on, as Mendes sings about wanting to be a source of comfort and support for someone he cares about. The song’s music video is simple yet impactful, featuring Mendes singing against a black background, putting the focus on his emotive performance. “Roses” is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the power of love and the importance of being there for those we care about, even when it’s tough.
Jason Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
