“Where the Wild Roses Grow” is a haunting and atmospheric duet by Australian artists Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, and Kylie Minogue, released in October 1995 as the lead single from Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds’ ninth studio album, Murder Ballads. Written by Nick Cave, the song is a dark and poetic exploration of love, obsession, and tragedy, blending elements of folk, gothic, and alternative rock.

Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds / Kylie Minogue - Where The Wild Roses Grow - single cover

The lyrics tell a chilling narrative from two perspectives. Cave plays a man who becomes infatuated with a woman named Eliza Day, played by Minogue, and ultimately kills her in a symbolic act of love and possession. The track is sparse and evocative, featuring a gentle acoustic guitar, brooding strings, and a minimalist arrangement that allows the vocals to take center stage. Cave’s deep, gravelly voice contrasts with Minogue’s delicate and ethereal performance, creating a captivating dynamic between the two characters.

“Where the Wild Roses Grow” was a commercial and critical success, reaching No. 2 in Australia, and the top ten in several European countries. The song introduced Kylie Minogue to a different audience, showcasing her versatility as an artist and her willingness to step outside of mainstream pop.

The music video, directed by Rocky Schenck, is a visual representation of the song’s tragic narrative. It features Minogue lying lifeless in a river, adorned with roses, intercut with scenes of Cave performing. The video’s stark, painterly aesthetic complements the song’s gothic and melancholic tone, making it an iconic accompaniment to the track.

Nick Cave & Kylie Minogue – Where The Wild Roses Grow – Lyrics