Introduction:
“Mama Liked the Roses” is a heartfelt song recorded by Elvis Presley, released on April 20, 1970, as the B-side to the single “The Wonder of You.” Despite its release alongside a live track, “Mama Liked the Roses” was recorded earlier, during sessions at American Sound Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, in January 1969. The song was later included in the November 1970 reissue of “Elvis’ Christmas Album” under the RCA Camden label, even though its lyrics do not pertain to Christmas themes.
Recording History
The recording sessions for “Mama Liked the Roses” took place at American Sound Studio, a venue renowned for its influence on the Memphis music scene. The basic instrumental track was laid down on January 15 and 16, 1969, by the studio’s house band, The Memphis Boys, without Elvis’s presence. Elvis added his lead vocals on January 21 and 22, 1969, during which he also recorded a harmony vocal part that ultimately was not used in the final mix. Additional backing vocals were recorded during these sessions. Orchestral overdubs, including strings and brass, were added on March 18 and 19, 1969, with a final backing vocal overdub completed on March 31, 1970. The song was produced by Chips Moman and Felton Jarvis.
Songwriter and Composition
“Mama Liked the Roses” was penned by Johnny Christopher, an American songwriter and musician born in 1943 in Atlanta, Georgia. Christopher is also known for co-writing “Always on My Mind,” a song that achieved significant success with renditions by artists such as Willie Nelson and the Pet Shop Boys. The lyrics of “Mama Liked the Roses” reflect a son’s poignant memories of his mother, highlighting her love for roses and her nurturing influence on her children’s lives. The song’s sentimental narrative is complemented by a gentle melody, creating an emotional tribute to maternal love and remembrance.
Genre and Musical Style
While “Mama Liked the Roses” is often associated with gospel music due to its soulful delivery and thematic depth, it also incorporates elements of country and pop genres. The arrangement features a blend of traditional gospel instrumentation with contemporary sounds, including guitar, piano, organ, and orchestral strings. This fusion creates a rich, emotive soundscape that underscores the song’s reflective lyrics.
Release and Reception
Upon its release as the B-side to “The Wonder of You,” “Mama Liked the Roses” contributed to the single’s commercial success. The combined release reached number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart in the United States and achieved the number 1 position on the UK Singles Chart for six weeks during the summer of 1970. The song’s inclusion in the 1970 reissue of “Elvis’ Christmas Album” under the RCA Camden label, despite not being a Christmas song, introduced it to a broader audience. This reissue replaced four gospel tracks from the original album with “Mama Liked the Roses” and “If Every Day Was Like Christmas,” aligning with the sentimental and reflective themes often associated with the holiday season.
Legacy and Impact
“Mama Liked the Roses” stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music. The song resonates with listeners for its universal themes of love, loss, and remembrance. Its heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery continue to evoke strong emotional responses, making it a cherished piece in Elvis’s extensive catalog. The song also highlights Johnny Christopher’s songwriting prowess, showcasing his talent for crafting narratives that touch the human spirit.
Personnel Involved
The recording of “Mama Liked the Roses” featured a talented ensemble of musicians and vocalists:
- Elvis Presley: Lead vocals
- Reggie Young: Guitar
- Tommy Cogbill: Bass
- Mike Leech: Bass; horn and string arrangements; overdubbed viola; session leader for string overdub session
- Bobby Wood: Piano
- Bobby Emmons: Organ
- Gene Chrisman: Drums
- Mary “Jeanie” Greene, Mary Holladay, Ginger Holladay, Donna Thatcher, Sandra Posey Robinson: Backing vocals
- Glen Spreen: Saxophone; horn and string arrangements
- Wayne Jackson, R.F. Taylor: Trumpets
- Jackie Thomas, Jack Hale: Trombones
- Joe D’Gerolamo, Tony Cason: French horns
- Noel Gilbert: Violin; session contractor for string overdub session
- Gloria Hendricks, Albert Edelman, Robert Snyder, Anna Oldham, Hal Saunders, Edward Freudberg: Violins
- Mary Snyder, John Wehlan, Nono Ravarono, Vernon Taylor: Violas
- Anne Kendall, Peter Spurbeck: Cellos
The production team included Chips Moman and Felton Jarvis as producers, with Al Pachucki serving as the engineer and Roy Shockley as the technician.
Conclusion
“Mama Liked the Roses” exemplifies Elvis Presley’s versatility and emotional depth as an artist. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its heartfelt portrayal of a son’s love and remembrance of his mother, themes that continue to resonate with audiences across generations. Through this song, both Elvis Presley and Johnny Christopher have left an indelible mark on the landscape of heartfelt musical expression.