Rosa's Coronas

Album: Rosaryville (1999)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Kate was inspired to write this song after watching a program about Cuban cigar makers. She had often wondered how to write a song about them, and suddenly she had a face for these people, especially for Rosa. Kate wanted it to be in first person so it was Rosa's story - or rather the story of such people told through Rosa. >>
    Suggestion credit:
    Helen - South Shields, England

Comments: 2

  • Joel from Montreal, CanadaIn his song "Me and Julio Down By The Schoolyard," Paul Simon says "Goodbye Rosie, queen of Corona" ... think there's any connection?
  • Helen from South Shields, EnglandJust saw her perform again in Wallsend last Sat - wow is the only word i can find. To add, she wanted to wrote about Cuba, as she has always been fascinated that it is so close to Anmerica but so far away in terms of walls borders and divisions, somehting else Kate is interested in.
    She saw a program on CBS about the cigar rollers in Cuba and that became her song.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Dr. John

Dr. JohnSongwriter Interviews

The good doctor shares some candid insights on recording with Phil Spector and The Black Keys.

Matthew Wilder - "Break My Stride"

Matthew Wilder - "Break My Stride"They're Playing My Song

Wilder's hit "Break My Stride" had an unlikely inspiration: a famous record mogul who rejected it.

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.

Gary Louris of The Jayhawks

Gary Louris of The JayhawksSongwriter Interviews

The Jayhawks' song "Big Star" has special meaning to Gary, who explains how longevity and inspiration have trumped adulation.

David Paich of Toto

David Paich of TotoSongwriter Interviews

Toto's keyboard player explains the true meaning of "Africa" and talks about working on the Thriller album.

Jeff Trott

Jeff TrottSongwriter Interviews

Sheryl Crow's longtime songwriting partner/guitarist Jeff Trott reveals the stories behind many of the singer's hits, and what its like to be a producer for Leighton Meester and Max Gomez.