Introduction:
The year is 1970. Pop music is undergoing a transformation. The psychedelic rock explosion of the late 1960s is beginning to wane, and a new wave of catchy, radio-friendly tunes is taking hold. In this musical landscape emerges a one-hit wonder that would capture the hearts of audiences worldwide: “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” by Edison Lighthouse.
Edison Lighthouse was a British pop group formed in Wales in 1969. The band consisted of lead vocalist Tony Burrows, lead guitarist Stuart Coleman, bassist Cliff Richard (not the famous Cliff Richard), keyboardist Brian Rogers, and drummer David Raven. Despite their short-lived fame, their producer, Tony Macauley, played a significant role in shaping their sound. Macauley, a veteran of the British music scene, had previously worked with artists like The Who and The Hollies. He recognized the potential of a song written by Bell and Findlay, a British songwriting duo, and brought it to Edison Lighthouse.
“Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” is a playful and quirky love song that defies easy categorization. While its catchy melody and driving beat firmly place it in the pop genre, the lyrics offer a unique perspective on love. The song describes the narrator’s affection for a woman named Rosemary, who doesn’t quite fit the conventional mold. She’s described as having “no money,” “clothes kind of funny,” and “hair is kinda wild and free.” Despite these unconventional traits, the narrator is utterly smitten, declaring, “Love grows where my Rosemary goes.” The song’s charm lies in its celebration of individuality and unconventional love.
Released in January 1970, “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” became an instant phenomenon. The song’s infectious melody, quirky lyrics, and driving beat resonated with listeners across generations. It reached number one on the UK Singles Chart and remained there for a remarkable five weeks. In the United States, the song crossed over to the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number five. “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” became Edison Lighthouse’s only major hit, but it secured their place in pop music history.
The song’s enduring legacy goes beyond its chart success. “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” has been covered by numerous artists, a testament to its catchy melody and timeless message. More importantly, it serves as a reminder of the power of a well-crafted pop song to capture the hearts of audiences and leave a lasting impression.