Beth Orton talks about the sense of completeness she gains from song writing
Beth Orton
Beth Orton is a singer/songwriter with more than ten years of successful albums to her name. Her debut album, Trailer Park, was released in 1996 to widespread acclaim for the sultry blend of jazz and folk that led to her being dubbed the “queen of heartbreak” by Mercury Music Prize judges. The album is being re-released on March 9th 2009 as a special Legacy Edition, with a bonus disc of 13 non-album tracks.
How did you come to be a singer/songwriter?
I wrote my own songs first and foremost and taught myself – I didn’t receive any formal training. I wrote a song for my mum when I was 11.
My first grown up song was ‘She Cries Your Name’, released in 1996, and I suppose my inspiration was trying to emulate Rickie Lee Jones…
From there something completely different happened. I think the key ingredients to a successful song are heart and integrity and soul.
Do you begin with the music or the lyrics?
Either – I begin with whatever it is that takes me in.
Do you generally write in collaboration with other musicians?
I have written in so many different configurations, but I think the way that comes most naturally seems to be between me and my guitar.
Probably your most famous collaboration was with the Chemical Brothers when you sang ‘Alive Alone’ on their debut album ‘Exit Planet Dust’. How did that come about?
We met in a pub and they knew the track I had recorded with William Orbit in 1993: ‘Water From a Vine Leaf’. They asked me to sing with them.
What is the biggest challenge when it comes to song writing?
Maintaining self-belief.
What do you enjoy most about it?
The initial idea coming out of nowhere and knowing it instantly. knowing it is a keeper and beginning the process of seeing where it leads.
It is quite possibly the best feeling in the world, better than falling in love even –it is a love that keeps on giving! It is a sense of completeness; it is a moment of peace.
How does it compare to performing?
I don’t know that it does compare.
What has been the highlight of your professional career?
I think my debut album, Trailer Park, was quite a highlight in terms of taking me completely by surprise.
Whose song writing do you admire?
So many people! In particular, I do marvel at Bob Dylan every time I hear a song by him; he stops me in my tracks.
What advice would you offer an aspiring songwriter?
Stay true to yourself.
Several of your songs have been used in movie and television soundtracks – why do you think your music works so well in this context?
I think if the music helps the mood of a song, it works best.
Is there a particular song that you feel defines your writing style?
‘Sweetest Decline’, which was released in 1999 on the album Central Reservation.
What are you working on at the moment?
Never you mind! I hope you’ll know soon enough….
For more, visit www.bethorton.co.uk
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