Bootleg Betty
Audio: Bette Midler – The Rose (Marco & Jason Remix 2025)
By Mister D
January 13, 2025
Here are some key facts about Bette Midler’s song “The Rose”:
- Release Date: “The Rose” was released in 1980 as the title track for the film of the same name in which Bette Midler starred.
- Songwriter: The song was written by Amanda McBroom, who wrote it for a 1979 musical adaptation of the 1954 film “The Rose Tattoo.” Although the musical never made it to Broadway, the song gained fame through the movie.
- Chart Performance: The song became one of Midler’s signature tunes, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also topped the Adult Contemporary chart for five weeks.
- Grammy Awards: “The Rose” earned Bette Midler a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1981.
- Film Context: In the movie, “The Rose” serves as both the title and a thematic element, reflecting the life and struggles of the character Mary Rose Foster, a rock star based on the life of Janis Joplin.
- Lyrics: The lyrics of “The Rose” are often interpreted as an ode to love’s resilience and fragility, with metaphors about love being like a rose or a rock, symbolizing both beauty and strength.
- Cultural Impact: Over the years, “The Rose” has become a standard for vocalists, often covered in various genres. Its message of hope and the paradoxical nature of love has resonated with many, making it a staple in wedding ceremonies and other significant life events.
- Live Performances: Bette Midler has included “The Rose” in her concert setlists for decades, often closing her shows with this song, which has become synonymous with her career.
These facts highlight “The Rose” not only as a significant piece in Bette Midler’s repertoire but also as an enduring piece of music in popular culture.
