The Untold Story Of Rosewood Bitters: 5 Shocking Facts About Michael Stanley's Defining Song And Lasting Legacy
The legacy of Michael Stanley, Cleveland’s beloved troubadour, is permanently etched into the heartland of American rock, and at the core of that legacy lies the timeless anthem, "Rosewood Bitters." First released in 1973, this deeply personal and evocative track transcended its regional roots to become a fixture in Stanley's extensive catalog, a song he would perform throughout his entire career, right up until his final performances. While many know the song's iconic melody, the story behind its creation—including the stunning involvement of two rock and roll legends on the original recording—and its continued relevance after Stanley's passing in 2021 provides a fresh, profound look at a true American original.
As of December 21, 2025, the conversation around Michael Stanley and "Rosewood Bitters" is far from over. Ongoing tributes, re-releases, and the enduring power of his final, posthumous album, Tough Room, ensure that the spirit of the Michael Stanley Band (MSB) and the sentiment of his signature song continue to resonate with new generations. This article dives deep into the five most compelling and often-overlooked facts about the song and the man who wrote it, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of rock history.
Michael Stanley: Biography and Profile of Cleveland's Troubadour
Michael Stanley Gee, known professionally as Michael Stanley, was a definitive figure in American rock music, bridging the gap between national stardom and local legend. His career spanned over five decades, encompassing roles as a prolific singer-songwriter, a dynamic bandleader, and a beloved radio personality.
- Full Name: Michael Stanley Gee
- Born: March 25, 1948
- Died: March 5, 2021 (Age 72)
- Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio
- Cause of Death: Lung Cancer
- Primary Bands: Michael Stanley (Solo Artist), Michael Stanley Band (MSB), The Ghost Poets, The Resonators
- Defining Songs: "Rosewood Bitters" (1973), "My Town" (1983), "He Can't Love You" (1980), "Falling in Love Again" (1981)
- Radio Career: Host of the afternoon drive time show on WNCX in Cleveland for over 30 years.
- Final Album: Tough Room (Released Posthumously)
Stanley began his musical journey in the late 1960s, releasing his self-titled solo album in 1973, which featured "Rosewood Bitters." He soon formed the Michael Stanley Band (MSB), a group that achieved massive regional success, routinely selling out major venues like the Richfield Coliseum. Despite never achieving the same level of national success as some peers, Stanley's dedication to his craft and his hometown earned him the moniker "Cleveland's Troubadour," a title that reflects his deep connection to the American heartland and his loyal fanbase.
1. The Shocking A-List Collaborators on the Original "Rosewood Bitters" Track
"Rosewood Bitters" was the opening track on Michael Stanley’s 1973 self-titled debut album. While the song is intrinsically linked to Stanley, the original recording featured two of the most recognizable names in rock history, a fact often overlooked by casual listeners. This unexpected collaboration is a testament to Stanley's early connections and the high regard he commanded among his peers.
Joe Walsh's Dual Role
The first legendary collaborator was Joe Walsh, a founding member of the James Gang and later, a crucial member of the Eagles. Walsh's involvement with "Rosewood Bitters" was two-fold. On the original 1973 recording, Walsh contributed the distinctive slide guitar part, adding a layer of country-rock texture that defined the track's sound. This instrumental contribution was just the beginning of the song's journey with Walsh.
Todd Rundgren's Signature Sound
The second major surprise on the original track was the involvement of producer and multi-instrumentalist Todd Rundgren. Rundgren, known for his work with Utopia and his solo hits, played the clavinet on "Rosewood Bitters." The subtle, funky keyboard line provided by Rundgren is a unique texture that grounds the song's melancholic narrative. The presence of both Walsh and Rundgren on an early Michael Stanley solo effort highlights the caliber of musicians drawn to his songwriting even at the start of his career.
2. Joe Walsh Covered the Song a Decade Later on a Major Album
The relationship between Joe Walsh and "Rosewood Bitters" didn't end with his slide guitar contribution in 1973. More than a decade later, Walsh chose to cover the song on his 1985 solo album, The Confessor.
Walsh's decision to record his own version further cemented the song's status as a respected piece of rock songwriting. While Stanley's original was a more introspective, folk-rock arrangement, Walsh's cover brought a new, slightly more polished 80s rock sensibility to the track. The cover introduced "Rosewood Bitters" to a wider, national audience who may not have been familiar with Stanley’s work outside of the Midwest. The song’s inclusion on an album by a rock icon like Walsh is the highest form of professional tribute and speaks volumes about the quality of Stanley's composition.
3. The Michael Stanley Band's Live Phenomenon and "Stagepass"
While "Rosewood Bitters" began as a solo track, it quickly became a staple of the Michael Stanley Band (MSB)’s legendary live shows. The MSB was known for its relentless touring schedule and ability to connect with massive audiences, particularly in the Midwest, where they were often compared to Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band for their high-energy performances and local devotion.
The definitive live version of the song is often considered the one featured on the 1977 live album, Stagepass. This recording captures the raw energy and collective power of the band, transforming the acoustic-driven original into a full-blown rock spectacle. Stanley’s introduction of the song during these shows often highlighted its personal nature, reinforcing the deep, emotional bond he shared with his audience. Performances of "Rosewood Bitters" at landmark venues like the Richfield Coliseum on New Year's Eve became integral to the Cleveland music tradition.
4. Michael Stanley’s Final Album, ‘Tough Room,’ and Enduring Legacy
The most recent and poignant chapter in Michael Stanley’s story is the release of his final album, Tough Room. Recorded before his death in March 2021, the album serves as a powerful, fitting farewell—much like David Bowie’s Blackstar or Warren Zevon’s The Wind.
The project was produced by his longtime friend and legendary producer Bill Szymczyk, known for his work with the Eagles (including Joe Walsh) and the J. Geils Band. Stanley, aware of his declining health, worked tirelessly to complete the tracks, ensuring his final musical statement was delivered. While "Rosewood Bitters" is not on this album, the spirit of Stanley’s songwriting—introspective, honest, and deeply rooted in the human experience—is palpable throughout Tough Room. The album’s release, along with ongoing tributes featuring musicians like Danny Powers, Gary Markasky, and Michael Gismondi, confirms that Stanley’s music, especially his defining early hit, remains a vital and current part of American rock culture.
5. The Meaning of "Rosewood Bitters" and its Poetic Depth
At its heart, "Rosewood Bitters" is a song about reflection, time, and the bittersweet nature of memory. The title itself evokes a sense of both warmth (rosewood) and melancholy (bitters), perfectly capturing the song's lyrical mood. It is a poetic exploration of a past love and the realization that while the moment is gone, the memory is still vivid and potent.
The song's enduring popularity lies in its universal themes. Stanley's songwriting style was often praised for its authenticity and lack of pretense. Tracks like "Rosewood Bitters," "My Town," and "He Can't Love You" connected with his fans because they spoke directly to the everyday realities, heartbreaks, and triumphs of life in the American Midwest. The song’s status as a "lifetime fixture" in his repertoire is not just due to its musical quality but its ability to resonate with the emotional core of his audience, making it more than just a song—it is a cultural touchstone for a generation of rock fans. The enduring tributes, including covers by artists like Jennifer Lee and the continued airplay on stations like WNCX, ensure the song's poetic message will be passed on for decades to come.
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