Foreign songs about flowers: world classics and popular hits

Yankee RoseDavid Lee Roth

Yankee Rose

A single from his first solo album following his departure from Van Halen.

Featuring the powerhouse lineup of Steve Vai on guitar and Billy Sheehan on bass, it’s a comically cool, over-the-top track that leaves a strong impression.

And of course, “Yankee Rose” refers to a gorgeous woman.

Tokyo RoseIdle Eyes

Idle Eyes – Tokyo Rose

Idol Eyes is a rock band from Vancouver.

This song was their biggest hit even in their home country.

“Tokyo Rose” was a nickname given to Japanese female announcers who worked on radio broadcasts made for British and American troops during the Pacific War.

Tiger LilyMatchbook Romance

Matchbook Romance – “Tiger Lily”

Matchbook Romance is an emotional hardcore band from New York.

Just as they were being hailed as a next-generation act, they unfortunately disbanded in 2007, though they later reunited temporarily.

Amid the intensity, they deliver a barrage of poignant phrases.

Many fans are surely hoping for a full comeback.

Marigold ConjunctionStackridge.

Stackridge – Marigold Conjunction (1971)

For a moment you might mistakenly think, “Huh? The Beatles?” but although they’re also from the UK, Stackridge are a progressive rock band.

Their gentle vocals and laid-back melodies create a pastoral, oddly enchanting appeal.

BloodflowersThe Cure

Bloodflowers

They were among the foremost new wave bands that shook the music scene in the late ’70s, and it’s amazing that they’re still active today.

There have been lineup changes, but The Cure essentially equals Robert Smith—his charismatic musical vision is absolutely commanding.

Mother RosePatti Smith

Patti Smith – Mother Rose

Patti Smith sang Bob Dylan’s iconic “A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall” in his stead after he skipped the Nobel Prize ceremony.

Known as the “Queen of Punk” in the ’70s, her gentle yet powerful vocals make this a quietly moving masterpiece.

You Don’t Bring Me FlowersBarbra Streisand & Neil Diamond

Neil Diamond & Barbra Streisand – You Don’t Bring Me Flowers Anymore

It was originally a track included on a Neil Diamond album, but was later released as a song on Barbra’s album.

It’s a song filled with the sadness and loneliness of two lovers who once loved each other passionately, but whose hearts have now grown apart.