Parting Gift

For other uses, see Parting gift (disambiguation).

"Parting Gift" is a song written by American singer Fiona Apple and recorded for her third studio album Extraordinary Machine (2005). It was produced by Mike Elizondo and Brian Kehew and is the only song from Extraordinary Machine not to have been originally recorded during the Jon Brion-produced sessions. Apple was able to record it on her first take. MTV News described the song as "a characteristically bitter breakup song", and its protagonist chastises a former beau (calling him a "silly, stupid pastime") whilst lamenting their failed relationship: "It ended bad but I loved what we started".

"Parting Gift"
Single by Fiona Apple
from the album Extraordinary Machine
Released	August 16, 2005 (U.S.)
Recorded	Phantom Studios, LA and Stanley Studios, Venice, CA
Length	3:34
Label	Epic
Songwriter(s)	Fiona Apple (lyricist and composer)
Producer(s)	Mike Elizondo, Brian Kehew
Fiona Apple singles chronology
"O' Sailor" (2000) "Parting Gift" (2005) "Not About Love" (2005)
Music video
"Parting Gift" on YouTube

On August 15, 2005 (see 2005 in music), ahead of the album's release in early October, Epic Records made available for streaming both "Parting Gift" and "O' Sailor" on Apple's official website. The following day, the songs were released for digital download at the online iTunes Music Store. The music video for "Parting Gift" was directed by Spencer Maggart (Apple's brother), and it premiered on LAUNCHcast on August 23, 2005.

Formats and track listing

US Acetate promo CD single:
1. Parting Gift (3:34)

References

• Perez, Rodrigo. "Fiona Apple's Long-Delayed LP Slotted For October 4 Release". MTV News. August 15, 2005. Retrieved August 31, 2005.
• Cohen, Jonathan. "Fiona Apple fashions a different 'Machine'". Billboard. August 15, 2005. Retrieved August 28, 2005.

External links

• Extraordinary Machine press release from Epic Records — August 15, 2005
• Lyrics