The song "Spanish Harlem" by Jay & The Americans is a love ballad that describes a special rose that grows in the streets of Spanish Harlem. The lyrics convey the beauty and uniqueness of this rose, which only blooms at night when the moon is shining and the stars are gleaming. The rose is portrayed as delicate and dreamlike, growing through the concrete despite its surroundings. The singer compares the rose to a person, describing its eyes as black as coal, which look deep into his soul. The rose's beauty and intensity ignite a fire within him, causing him to lose control of his emotions. He feels compelled to pick the rose and watch it grow in his garden. The song's lyrics speak to the magic and allure of Spanish Harlem, a neighborhood in New York City known for its vibrant Hispanic culture. The rose serves as a symbol of love and desire, representing the singer's longing for someone special in his life. Overall, "Spanish Harlem" is a heartfelt song that celebrates the enchanting beauty and romance found within the neighborhood's streets and its symbolic rose.