"Rose Colored Stained Glass Windows" is a song by Petra. It was written and composed by the band's guitarist and vocalist Bob Hartman. The song was released in 1982 as part of the band's fifth album, More Power to Ya. The song builds from soft rock during the beginning to hard rock, eventually going into an extended guitar solo which lasts 1 minute and 40 seconds. It was also included in the 40th Anniversary album released in 2013.
Lyrics[]
Words and music by Bob Hartman
Another sleepy Sunday safe within the walls
Outside a dying world in desperation calls
But no one hears the cries or knows what they're about
The doors are locked within, or is it from without
(Chorus)
Looking through rose-colored stained glass windows
Never allowing the world to come in
Seeing no evil and feeling no pain
And making the light as it comes from within
So dim...So dim
Out on your doorstep lay masses in decay
Ignore them long enough maybe they'll go away
When you have so much you think you have so much to lose
You think you have no lack when you're really destitute
Credits[]
- Greg X. Volz – Lead vocals
- Bob Hartman – Guitars
- Mark Kelly – Bass, vocals
- Louie Weaver – Drums
- John Slick – Keyboards, vocals, synthesizer
Other versions[]
Live versions[]
In 2005, "Rose Colored Stained Glass Windows" was part of a live acoustic medley featured in the album Petra Farewell. In this medley, Greg X. Volz was invited as a guest vocalist. This performance also features bassist Greg Bailey and drummer Paul Simmons.
In 2011, the song was also featured live in the Classic Petra album Back to the Rock Live.
Remake[]
In 2010, the song was remade and recorded by Classic Petra in the album Back to the Rock. This version features John Lawry on keyboards, and is different from the original in that it uses violins.
Cover versions[]
"Rose Colored Stained Glass Windows" was covered in 1996 by Jars of Clay for the tribute album Never Say Dinosaur. This version was produced by Brent Bourgeois.