Introduction:
“I Threw Away the Rose” is one of Merle Haggard’s classic songs, released in 1967 as part of his album Branded Man. The song became a significant hit, peaking at #29 on the U.S. Country charts. Known for its deeply emotional lyrics and traditional country style, it reflects the themes of regret and heartbreak that were often present in Haggard’s music.
The song tells the story of a man who has lost something precious, symbolized by a rose, due to neglect and poor decisions, serving as a metaphor for love or a relationship that was cast aside. Haggard’s raw and honest vocal performance, paired with the song’s melancholic melody, resonates deeply with listeners, highlighting the pain of losing something valuable through one’s own actions.
“I Threw Away the Rose” is a quintessential example of Haggard’s gift for storytelling, and it holds a significant place in his discography during the height of his career. It also showcases the rich instrumental contributions of his band, The Strangers, adding to the emotional weight of the track.
Video:
Lyrics:
“I Threw Away The Rose”
Once I lived the 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 the turnBut 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 roseI 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 commandAnd 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