Foreign songs about flowers: world classics and popular hits

China RosesEnya

Enya – China Roses

When it comes to a songstress who captivates people around the world with a beautiful voice, many probably think of Enya.

“China Roses” is included on her 1995 album The Memory of Trees, which won the Grammy Award for Best New Age Album.

As the title suggests, “China Roses” refers to roses of Chinese origin, said to have been brought to Europe around the mid-18th century.

With its grand instrumentation and Enya’s beautiful vocals, this masterpiece leaves you with an incredibly serene feeling.

The RoseWestlife

Westlife – The Rose (Official Video)

When it comes to songs with flower names in the title, The Rose comes to mind, doesn’t it? Originally a classic ballad sung by Bette Midler, the version by the Irish vocal group Westlife is also highly recommended! This song, which speaks of love as a flower, has a powerful quality that gives you courage when you want to run away from something.

In Japan, Harumi Miyako performs it with Japanese lyrics in the animated film Only Yesterday (Omohide Poro Poro), so if you’re curious, be sure to give that a listen too!

Morning GloryOasis

Oasis – Morning Glory (Official HD Remastered Video)

Titled “Morning Glory,” meaning morning glory (the flower), this song propelled the British rock band Oasis to global popularity.

It was included as the lead track on their 1995 album Morning Glory, which has sold over 25 million copies worldwide.

The album cover also appears to have been inspired by the Beatles’ Abbey Road, a band they greatly respect.

It’s a rock tune with an irresistible, driving momentum—be sure to give it a listen!

Lilac WineJeff Buckley

Jeff Buckley – “Lilac Wine”

Lilac Wine, the classic track included on Jeff Buckley’s landmark 1994 release Grace.

Originally written by composer James Shelton for a musical, it features a spoken, dialogue-like vocal delivery and a narrative song structure that together create an expansive, enveloping world.

It’s an unforgettable masterpiece that’s sure to captivate you with Jeff Buckley’s voice.

IrisGoo Goo Dolls

Goo Goo Dolls – Iris [Official Music Video] [4K Remaster]

Iris, sung by the American rock band Goo Goo Dolls, who have been together for over 30 years, was used as an insert song in the 1998 film City of Angels starring Nicolas Cage and Meg Ryan, and became a worldwide hit.

The title Iris refers to the flower, whose language of flowers signifies “a message of love.” Both the lyrics—crafted to reflect the film’s worldview—and the meaning of the title carry a certain poignancy, conveying heartfelt feelings for a loved one.

Why not watch the movie to deepen your appreciation of the song?

Rose In DecemberHalestorm

Halestorm – Rose In December LIVE at The Chameleon Club, Lancaster, PA 12/28/10

Led by Lzzy Hale, who is known for her exceptionally high-level vocal technique, Halestorm is a hard rock band.

The band’s performance is outstanding, but this time I’d like to introduce Lzzy Hale’s solo rendition.

Released in 2001, this song became popular among fans for its lyrics that portray deep love.

The line “When December comes, I’ll be your rose” exudes a captivating mix of sensuality and purity, two seemingly opposing moods.

Blue OrchidThe White Stripes

The White Stripes – Blue Orchid (Official Music Video)

“Blue Orchid,” a classic by the American alternative rock band The White Stripes.

The song was included on their 2005 album “Get Behind Me Satan.” It’s a cool rock tune featuring raw drums and distorted guitar! The title “Blue Orchid” refers to the blue orchid flower.

The music video for this track was ranked 13th on Yahoo’s “Top 20 Scariest Music Videos of All Time,” so if you’re interested, why not check it out?