Question
We have a front yard [appx 15 X 40- flat area] that use to be used as a gravel circle drive.  Also the soil is very hard.  We wanted to establish several flower and shrub plantings, but the ground is so hard and rocky it takes forever to dig holes to plant [getting deep enough to add good soil for the plants].  To date we've put in 5-6 bushes, grasses and are exhausted from this.  We have been contemplating just putting in a grass lawn.  What would be a good grass to use?  It's a very sunny front area of the house.  Would having the rock professionally "raked" aid any?  I'd appreciate any input - we're at a loss on what to do.  It is currently nothing but blotches of weeds scattered throughout the front.

Answer
Tough project!
You have your choice about which to plant.  It depends on how much you wish to put into the end product.  Having a former driveway is not impediment to plants.  However, breaking the ground up is the primary step.  In either case, you may consider hiring someone with a small backhoe or other digging machine to break up the hardpan and gravel at least one foot deep.  Gravel is not an impossible plant medium, but some soil should be added for plants and turf.  Most stone, granite, contains rock potash, a needed plant nutrient.
Consider amending with topsoil and compost for either project.  One cubic yard should add approx. six inches to a six hundred sq. ft. area (15X40.)  Add compost to re-introduce some soil life and nutrients.  Another cubic yard should do.
This process should leave you with a workable plant bed or good turf bed.
Though I do not know what you mean by "raked," digging up the rock will create a decent drainage and workable bed.  Keep in mind that rock drains more quickly than soil and will need more water than a standard soil to establish and maintain.
Best of luck.