How Blood Red Roses By Rod Stewart Was Inspired By Sea Shanties

March 20, 2025

The sun hung low on the horizon, casting a warm golden light over the small coastal town of Dunoon, Scotland, where Rod Stewart grew up. As a boy, he spent countless hours by the sea, captivated by the haunting melodies of fishermen singing sea shanties. These songs told tales of adventure, love lost, and the relentless power of the ocean. Little did he know that these simple tunes would weave into the very fabric of his future music career. Each note and lyric ignited a fire within him—a passion for storytelling through song that would one day shape his destiny.

In his teenage years, Rod’s love for music flourished. He was inspired by the sounds that surrounded him: the crash of waves, the calls of seagulls, and that unmistakable echo of sailors singing their heart out as they braved the sea. The lyrics of sea shanties spoke of resilience and hope, themes that resonated deeply with Rod during a time when he struggled to find his own voice. He watched as the fishermen worked tirelessly, their hands calloused but their spirits unbroken. It was this spirit that ignited the spark for “Blood Red Roses,” a song that would not only reflect his upbringing but also become a cornerstone of his career.

As Rod began to write “Blood Red Roses,” he drew upon the lessons he learned from those old sea shanties—the importance of love, passion, and the struggles that come with them. The song became a narrative of longing and connection, echoing the sentiments of sailors yearning for their loved ones while navigating tumultuous waters. With each strum of his guitar, he channeled that deep, raw emotion, allowing the melodies to rise and fall like the tides that had always been a part of his life. The red roses in the song symbolized both love and the sacrifices that often accompany it, conveying a universal message that speaks to the heart.

When “Blood Red Roses” was released, it struck a chord with listeners around the world. The rich, raspy quality of Rod’s voice combined with the sweeping melodies created a beautiful tribute to his roots. It was a moment of triumph for him, a reminder that all the struggles he faced—his humble beginnings, the tough decisions, and the relentless pursuit of his dreams—had led to this very point. Rod Stewart was not just a singer; he was a storyteller, connecting with people through the universal themes of love and resilience.

The song’s success not only elevated Rod’s career but also served as a testament to the power of music to heal and inspire. He often reflected on that little boy by the sea, remembering how those old sea shanties had filled him with dreams and determination. With every performance, he paid homage to the fishermen whose voices had guided him, letting their spirit echo through his songs. Through “Blood Red Roses,” Rod Stewart reminded the world that no matter how dark the storm, love and hope could always shine through.

As the years rolled on, Rod continued to draw inspiration from his past, weaving tales of love and adventure into his music. His journey became a beacon of hope for aspiring artists everywhere, a reminder that our beginnings shape who we become. With every note he sang, he proved that passion, resilience, and a connection to one’s roots could create something truly magnificent. And while the sea shanties faded into whispers, their essence lived on, forever intricately linked to the blood red roses of his songs.