Edison Lighthouse – Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)

“Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” by Edison Lighthouse is a quintessential example of upbeat, feel-good pop music from the early 1970s. Released in 1970, this infectious track quickly became a major hit, reaching the top of the UK Singles Chart and making waves internationally as well. It’s one of those songs that, once you hear it, sticks with you, thanks to its catchy melody, lively rhythm, and lighthearted, romantic lyrics.

At its core, “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” is a celebration of love and infatuation. The song’s narrator is completely enamored with a woman named Rosemary, and his feelings are reflected in every aspect of his world. The lyrics are playful and full of admiration, portraying Rosemary as a carefree and magical presence whose love seems to brighten everything around her. Lines like “She ain’t got no money, her clothes are kinda funny” suggest that her charm lies not in material things but in her unique personality and the joy she brings to those who know her.

What makes this song so memorable is its combination of bright, upbeat instrumentation and the smooth, joyful vocals of Tony Burrows, who was the lead singer on the track (though Edison Lighthouse was technically a one-hit-wonder group put together for this single). Burrows’ voice is full of energy and warmth, perfectly suited for the breezy, romantic vibe of the song. His delivery gives the song an effortless charm, as if he’s singing straight from the heart about a love that’s not only blossomed but transformed his entire outlook on life.

Musically, the song is driven by a vibrant pop-rock sound, characterized by jangly guitars, a lively rhythm section, and bright vocal harmonies. The melody is instantly catchy, making the song perfect for radio play, and it has an almost timeless quality that has kept it in rotation for decades. The production is slick and polished, a hallmark of the era’s bubblegum pop, yet it still feels genuine and heartfelt, largely because of the simplicity of the arrangement and the undeniable charm of the vocals.

One of the reasons “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” has endured is its universality. The song’s portrayal of a love that is uplifting and all-encompassing is something many listeners can relate to, whether they’re experiencing new love for the first time or remembering the joy and excitement of past romances. The song radiates positivity, offering a welcome escape from life’s more serious moments and reminding us of the pure, carefree nature of falling in love.

Despite its commercial pop sound, “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” is more than just a sugary love song. It taps into a timeless sentiment—that love can change the way we see the world, making everything seem brighter and better. There’s an almost dreamlike quality to the way the narrator describes Rosemary, as though her presence alone can make love “grow” wherever she goes. The song’s title itself reinforces the idea that love is something living and dynamic, something that flourishes and spreads, creating happiness wherever it’s nurtured.

For Edison Lighthouse, this song was their defining moment, a hit that catapulted them into the pop music spotlight, even if they didn’t achieve long-lasting fame beyond this single. But the legacy of “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” lives on, thanks to its cheerful vibe, catchy hooks, and the sheer joy it brings to listeners.

Even today, the song continues to pop up in movies, TV shows, and commercials, serving as a reminder of the carefree, optimistic spirit of the early 1970s. It’s one of those songs that makes you want to tap your feet, sing along, and maybe even daydream about your own Rosemary—someone who makes love grow and life seem a little more magical.