About The Song
Composed by Al Byron and Paul Evans, “Roses Are Red (My Love)” marked Bobby Vinton’s inaugural hit and was recorded in April 1962. The singer stumbled upon the song in a discard pile at Epic Records. Initially recorded as an R&B track, Vinton secured permission for a re-recording, transforming it into a slower, more dramatic rendition complete with strings and a vocal choir. The song’s success extended globally, reaching No. 1 in Australia, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, and the United States, while also making a significant impact in various other countries.
On July 14, 1962, “Roses Are Red (My Love)” ascended to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart, maintaining its reign for four consecutive weeks. Notably, this single marked a historic milestone as Epic Records’ first number-one hit. Billboard acknowledged its impact by ranking it No. 4 in the “Top 100 Singles of 1962” year-end list and placing it at No. 36 in the year-end ranking of the top Rhythm and Blues records of 1962. Cash Box’s “Top 100 Chart Hits of 1962” also recognized the song, positioning it at No. 17.
Bobby Vinton’s journey with Epic Records took an unexpected turn. Initially signed as a bandleader in 1960, Vinton faced challenges with two unsuccessful LPs. As the label contemplated dropping him, Vinton seized a last opportunity to sing on what they deemed the final single. The chosen song happened to be “Roses Are Red (My Love),” discovered amidst discarded material.
Unhappy with the initial recording due to its incorrect tempo, Vinton persisted and re-recorded the song. The second version not only reached No. 1 in the United States but also secured Vinton a new recording contract, this time as a solo recording artist.