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For the Roses

by Joni Mitchell

Released: November 07, 1972

Folk rock, soft rock, jazz

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Chart Success.

The Album

"For the Roses" is the fifth studio album by Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, released in November 1972, positioned between her highly acclaimed albums "Blue" and "Court and Spark." In 2007, it was selected by the Library of Congress to be added to the National Recording Registry. "For the Roses" showcases Mitchell's diverse songwriting and musical style, solidifying her reputation as one of the most influential artists of her generation. The album is notable for its hit single "You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio," which Mitchell wrote in response to a record company request for a radio-friendly song, albeit with a hint of sarcasm.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

Another standout track, "Cold Blue Steel and Sweet…

Another standout track, "Cold Blue Steel and Sweet Fire," delves into the theme of James Taylor's heroin addiction at the time, offering a menacing and jazzy portrayal.

It was released as a single along with…

It was released as a single along with "Blonde in the Bleachers." Additionally, the Beethoven-inspired "Judgment of the Moon and Stars" also garnered attention.

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Essential Tracks

Cold Blue Steel and Sweet Fire

Another standout track, "Cold Blue Steel and Sweet Fire," delves into the theme of James Taylor's heroin addiction at the time, offering a menacing and jazzy portrayal.

For the Roses

Blonde in the Bleachers

It was released as a single along with "Blonde in the Bleachers." Additionally, the Beethoven-inspired "Judgment of the Moon and Stars" also garnered attention.

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Explore the Album

Joni Mitchell - For the Roses

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Reception

The single reached number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Mitchell's first top 40 hit released under her own name.

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The Complete Album Story

The album is notable for its hit single "You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio," which Mitchell wrote in response to a record company request for a radio-friendly song, albeit with a hint of sarcasm. The single reached number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Mitchell's first top 40 hit released under her own name. Another standout track, "Cold Blue Steel and Sweet Fire," delves into the theme of James Taylor's heroin addiction at the time, offering a menacing and jazzy portrayal. It was released as a single along with "Blonde in the Bleachers." Additionally, the Beethoven-inspired "Judgment of the Moon and Stars" also garnered attention.

"For the Roses" showcases Mitchell's diverse songwriting and musical style, solidifying her reputation as one of the most influential artists of her generation.