Introduction
“Two Dozen Roses” by Shenandoah was released in 1989 as part of their album The Road Not Taken. The song, penned by Mac McAnally and Robert Byrne, became one of the band’s most iconic hits, reaching the top of the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
The song tells the story of a man reflecting on a past relationship, regretting the mistakes that led to its end. He imagines whether a grand romantic gesture—like giving two dozen roses or an apology—could have salvaged the relationship. The emotional depth of the lyrics, combined with Shenandoah’s heartfelt delivery, resonated strongly with listeners.
“Two Dozen Roses” became a signature song for the band, thanks to its relatable themes of regret and longing. Its success solidified Shenandoah’s place in country music during the late 1980s and early 1990s