S.O.D. "Rose Garden" by Lynn Anderson

3/21/2016     This 1970 country/pop crossover tune is one of the most successful of all time, becoming Andersons signature song.  Originally written by Joe South and first released in 1967 by Billy Joe Royal, it was thought of as a song that a man should sing with many male artists releasing the tune before Anderson.  She upstaged them all and turned it into an international success, topping 7 of the 10 countries it charted in.    

     Covering many genres, Anderson's version earned her a Grammy in 1971 for Best Female Country Vocal Performance.  South received two nominations, Song of the Year in the pop genre, and Best Country Song.  Anderson passed on to music heaven in July 2015.  She charted many #1 singles and received many awards and accolades. 1974 was a big year for her as she became the first female country artist to win the American Music Award, and the first female artist to headline and sellout Madison Square Garden.

     She was also an accomplished equestrian, winning several National and world championships. In New Mexico she raised horses at her ranch where she worked with the "Special Riders of Animaland," a horseback riding therapy program for children.