Introduction
“Mama Liked the Roses” is a heartfelt ballad recorded by Elvis Presley, released on April 20, 1970, as the B-side to “The Wonder of You”. Written by Johnny Christopher, who also co-wrote “Always on My Mind,” the song delves into themes of maternal love and remembrance. Though not originally intended as a holiday track, its emotional depth led to its inclusion in the 1970 reissue of Elvis’ Christmas Album
The recording sessions took place at American Sound Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, in January 1969. The instrumental tracks were laid down by The Memphis Boys, the studio’s house band, before Elvis added his vocals later that month . Additional overdubs, including strings and brass, were completed in March 1969 and March 1970.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a mother’s love for roses, symbolizing her nurturing spirit and the warmth she brought to her family. Lines referencing the family Bible with a pressed rose and the act of bringing roses to her grave on Mother’s Day underscore the enduring bond between mother and child
While the song did not achieve significant commercial success on its own, it resonated with fans for its sincerity and emotional resonance. “Mama Liked the Roses” stands as a testament to Elvis Presley’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music, offering listeners a glimpse into his personal reflections on love and loss.
Video
Lyrics
Oh, mama liked the roses she grew them in the yard
But winter always came around and made the growing way too hard
Oh, mama liked the roses and when she had the time
She’d decorate the living room, for all us kids to see
When i hear the sunday bells ringing in the morning
I remember crying when she used to sing
Oh, mama liked the roses but most of all she cared
About the way we learned to live
And if we said our prayers
You know i kept the family bible
With a rose that she saved inside
It was pressed between the pages
Like it had found a place to hide
Oh, mama liked the roses in such a special way
We bring them every mother’s day
And put them on her grave
Oh, mama liked the roses mmmm
Mama liked the roses