“Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” by Edison Lighthouse: A Timeless Pop Classic
In the world of one-hit wonders, few songs have left as lasting an impression as “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” by Edison Lighthouse. Released in early 1970, this infectious pop tune quickly soared to the top of the charts, becoming a signature song of its era. Its catchy melody, feel-good vibe, and sing-along chorus made it an instant favorite among music lovers, and its legacy endures more than five decades later.
The song was an immediate success, reaching #1 on the UK Singles Chart in February 1970, where it stayed for five weeks. It also enjoyed popularity in the United States, peaking at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100. Despite being the only major hit for Edison Lighthouse, “Love Grows” became synonymous with the early 1970s’ light-hearted, bubblegum pop sound. The song’s infectious energy and upbeat rhythm captured the optimism of the time, while its timeless appeal continues to make it a staple on oldies playlists.
Interestingly, Edison Lighthouse was less of a traditional band and more of a studio project. The lead vocals were performed by Tony Burrows, who was something of a pop music journeyman at the time, lending his voice to several hit songs by different bands. While Burrows’ vocal talents were unmistakable, Edison Lighthouse never achieved the same level of success with subsequent releases, making “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” their definitive—and only—hit.
The song itself is a charming ode to a woman named Rosemary, with the lyrics describing how “love grows” wherever she goes. There’s a carefree, almost whimsical quality to the words, and the bouncy melody reflects the joyful nature of falling in love. The repetitive chorus is a perfect earworm, ensuring the song stays stuck in listeners’ heads long after it ends. Written by Tony Macaulay and Barry Mason, two prolific British songwriters, the track was crafted to be an instant hit, drawing on the best elements of the era’s pop trends.
One of the reasons “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” remains beloved is its ability to instantly lift the mood of anyone who hears it. The upbeat guitar riff, combined with Burrows’ smooth, effortless vocals, makes for a song that feels like pure sunshine. It’s a tune that doesn’t take itself too seriously, offering a brief escape into a world of lighthearted romance and carefree fun.
Despite Edison Lighthouse’s brief moment in the spotlight, the song’s cultural impact is undeniable. It has been featured in numerous films, commercials, and TV shows, further cementing its place as a beloved relic of the early ’70s. Whether it’s played at a summer barbecue, a retro party, or on the radio, “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” never fails to bring a smile to the faces of those who hear it.
In a time when music was evolving rapidly with the rise of rock, soul, and more experimental sounds, “Love Grows” stood out as a slice of pure, unadulterated pop bliss. It may have been Edison Lighthouse’s only hit, but it’s a hit that has lived on in the hearts of fans around the world, a timeless reminder of the joy that pop music can bring.