Central Reservation

Album: Central Reservation (1999)
Charted: 37
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Speaking with The Observer September 23, 2012, Orton explained how she came to pen this song. She recalled that it "was written in Cartagena in Colombia after a different kind of night with no sleep. I had been doing what you do in Cartagena with some beautiful boy and snorting a stupid amount of coke and the song came from the joy of sitting in the sunshine the next day with a glorious hangover."
  • Central Reservation proved to be a breakthrough record for Orton, reaching #17 on the UK Albums Chart and #110 on the Billboard 200 in the United States. It also won her Best Female at the 2000 BRIT Awards.
  • The Sophie Muller-directed video follows Orton through the streets of Manhattan, where she strips off her floral dress and loans it to passersby, who try it on and dance with her. Muller has also directed clips for the Eurythmics, No Doubt, and Garbage.

Comments: 1

  • Ken Underhill from St. LouisEloquent, evocative, gorgeous song. Goosebumps every time.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Eric Clapton

Eric ClaptonFact or Fiction

Did Eric Clapton really write "Cocaine" while on cocaine? This question and more in the Clapton edition of Fact or Fiction.

Stephen Christian of Anberlin

Stephen Christian of AnberlinSongwriter Interviews

The lead singer/lyricist for Anberlin breaks down "Impossible" and covers some tracks from their 2012 album Vital.

Actors With Hit Songs

Actors With Hit SongsMusic Quiz

Many actors have attempted music, but only a few have managed a hit. Do you know which of these thespians charted?

Song Titles That Inspired Movies

Song Titles That Inspired MoviesSong Writing

Famous songs that lent their titles - and in some cases storylines - to movies.

Chris Squire of Yes

Chris Squire of YesSongwriter Interviews

One of the most dynamic bass player/songwriters of his time, Chris is the only member of Yes who has been with the band since they formed in 1968.

Rosanne Cash

Rosanne CashSongwriter Interviews

Rosanne talks about the journey that inspired her songs on her album The River & the Thread, including a stop at the Tallahatchie Bridge.