The duo has cited the band Group Love as an influence for the male-female duet style used in the vocal layering. Commercial and Critical Impact

Watch the official audio and behind-the-scenes breakdowns of how 'Roses' was created: The Chainsmokers - Roses (Official Audio) ft. ROZES YouTube · ChainsmokersVEVO The Chainsmokers on making Roses – The Track YouTube · MusicRadar Tech The Chainsmokers: Making of "Roses" | Billboard 2016 YouTube · Billboard

It is composed in the key of E major with a tempo of 100 BPM . The arrangement is praised for its "less is more" approach, utilizing a minimal drum kit consisting mostly of a kick, snare, and natural recorded claps.