From Ralph: Judy Collins – The Rose

“I’d be happy to discuss “The Rose,” though I should note that while Judy Collins did record a beautiful version of this song, it was originally written and performed by Amanda McBroom and famously recorded by Bette Midler for the 1979 film The Rose.

The song is a poignant meditation on love and its challenges. It uses the metaphor of a rose throughout, exploring how love can be perceived in different ways – as something that causes pain, demands too much, or seems impossible to find.

The core message is one of hope and resilience. It suggests that what might seem like an end (like a seed buried in winter) can actually be the beginning of something beautiful. The song encourages listeners not to be afraid to love, even when it feels risky or painful, because love has the power to bloom and transform, much like a rose emerging in spring.

The imagery moves from harsh descriptions of love as something that wounds or drowns, to the gentler realization that beneath the difficulties, there’s potential for growth and beauty. It’s ultimately an uplifting song about vulnerability, perseverance, and the transformative nature of love.”

Source: Perplexity.ai

“The Rose” is typically classified as a pop ballad or adult contemporary ballad.

The song has a slow, emotional tempo with a focus on heartfelt lyrics and melody, which are hallmarks of the ballad form. It features:

• A piano-driven arrangement
• Emotional, introspective lyrics
• A gradual build in intensity
• A focus on vocal performance and expression

Depending on the version, it can also have elements of:

• Soft rock (particularly in Bette Midler’s original recording)
• Folk (in versions like Judy Collins’, which emphasizes acoustic instrumentation and a more intimate vocal style)
• Easy listening or MOR (Middle of the Road) – terms used for accessible, melodic popular music

This style was especially popular in the late 1970s and 1980s, characterized by emotional depth, strong melodies, and production that highlighted the vocalist. Songs like “The Rose” became standards partly because they transcended genre boundaries and appealed to a broad audience through their universal themes and memorable melodies.

Source: Perplexity.ai