Raspberry Swirl


"Raspberry Swirl" is a song written and performed by Tori Amos. It was released as the second single from her 1998 album From the Choirgirl Hotel in Germany and Australia, and as the third and final single in North America and the UK. In the United States it was released as a double A-side single with "Cruel", off the same album. In Germany, Australia and the UK it was released as its own single. Two variations of an identical 12" vinyl promotional release were issued in the U.K.
"Raspberry Swirl" was Amos's first single to be nominated for a Grammy Award, being nominated for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1999.

About

"Raspberry Swirl" is about Amos' past relationship with a female friend and was written in response to the men in her relationships.

Music video

The video for Raspberry Swirl was directed by Barnaby & Scott and filmed in August 1998.

Review

"The fourth track, Raspberry Swirl, is the key," enthused John Aizlewood in Q's review of From the Choirgirl Hotel. "Seemingly throwaway, its programming doffs a cap to dance Amos' treated vocals recall Van Helden mixmastery. Before 30 seconds have passed, she's declared 'Let's go' and in one cathartic moment becomes her own woman again, via the remainder of a song that doesn't need twists to shine."

Track listings

"Raspberry Swirl" was released in the United States and Canada as a double A-side with "Cruel".

August 1998 German single

CD single – Atlantic AT0045CD
  1. "Raspberry Swirl" – 3:38
  2. "Raspberry Swirl" ¹ – 7:50
  3. "Raspberry Swirl" ¹ – 8:10

August 1998 U.K. single (cancelled release)

12-inch promo – Atlantic 3331000032
  1. "Raspberry Swirl" ¹ – 9:34
  2. "Raspberry Swirl" ¹ – 7:50
CD promo – Atlantic 3333000092
  1. "Raspberry Swirl" – 3:38
  2. "Raspberry Swirl" – 3:44

November 1998 U.S. single

7-inch single – Atlantic 7-84412
  1. "Cruel" – 3:49
  2. "Raspberry Swirl" – 3:38
CD single – Atlantic 2-84412 / Cassette single – Atlantic 4-84412
  1. "Cruel" – 3:49
  2. "Raspberry Swirl" – 3:38
  3. "Ambient Raspberry Swirl" ¹ – 8:10
  4. "Mainline Cherry" ² – 5:12
;Notes
¹ Remixed by Andy Gray.

² Remixed by Albert Cabrera.