Introduction
The “Yellow Rose of Texas” is a traditional song that has been popular for many years. The song is said to have been written during the Texas War of Independence. It has been performed by many artists over the years, but perhaps the most famous version is the one recorded by Mitch Miller. In this article, we will take a closer look at the “Yellow Rose of Texas” and explore the lyrics of the Mitch Miller version.
The History of the “Yellow Rose of Texas”
The origins of the “Yellow Rose of Texas” are somewhat shrouded in mystery. However, it is generally believed that the song was written during the Texas War of Independence in the early 19th century. The song is said to have been inspired by a woman named Emily D. West, who was known as the “Yellow Rose of Texas.” According to legend, West was a mulatto slave who was captured by Mexican forces during the war. She was then taken to the Mexican camp where General Santa Anna was staying. It is said that West seduced Santa Anna, distracting him from his duties and allowing the Texans to win a crucial battle.
The Lyrics of the Mitch Miller Version
The Mitch Miller version of the “Yellow Rose of Texas” is perhaps the most famous version of the song. The lyrics of the song are as follows:
There’s a yellow rose in Texas
That I am going to see
No other soldier knows her
No one only me
She cried so when I left her
It like to broke my heart
And if I ever find her
We never more will part
She’s the sweetest rose of color
This soldier ever knew
Her eyes are bright as diamonds
They sparkle like the dew
You may talk about your dearest May
And sing of Rosa Lee
But the Yellow Rose of Texas
Beats the belles of Tennessee
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The lyrics of the “Yellow Rose of Texas” are fairly straightforward. The song tells the story of a soldier who is going to see a woman he loves in Texas. He sings about how no other soldier knows her, and how she cried when he left her. He promises that if he ever finds her again, they will never part. The second verse of the song describes the woman in glowing terms, saying that she is the sweetest rose of color the soldier ever knew, and that her eyes are bright as diamonds. The final line of the song says that the Yellow Rose of Texas beats the belles of Tennessee, indicating that the soldier believes his love in Texas is superior to any other.
The Legacy of the “Yellow Rose of Texas”
The “Yellow Rose of Texas” has been a popular song for many years. It has been covered by numerous artists, and has been used in movies and TV shows. The song has also become something of a cultural icon in Texas, and is often associated with the state. In fact, the “Yellow Rose of Texas” is the official state flower of Texas, and is also the name of a popular Tex-Mex restaurant chain.
Conclusion
The “Yellow Rose of Texas” is a classic song with a long and interesting history. The Mitch Miller version of the song is perhaps the most famous, and its lyrics tell a simple but powerful story of love and devotion. Whether you are a fan of traditional music, or simply appreciate a good love story, the “Yellow Rose of Texas” is definitely worth a listen.
