For nearly five decades, Elvis Costello has been a defining force in music, blending sharp lyricism with an ever-evolving sound. Born Declan Patrick McManus in London, England, Costello emerged in the late 1970s as part of the punk and new wave movement, quickly earning a reputation for his biting wit and genre-defying compositions.
Costello’s 1977 debut album, My Aim Is True, introduced the world to his distinctive voice and songwriting prowess, featuring classics like “Alison” and “Watching the Detectives”. He followed up with This Year’s Model (1978) and Armed Forces (1979), solidifying his place in rock history with hits such as “Pump It Up” and “Oliver’s Army”.
Over the years, Costello has refused to be confined to a single style. He has explored country, jazz, classical, and even opera, collaborating with legends like Paul McCartney, Burt Bacharach, and Allen Toussaint. His partnership with McCartney produced “Veronica”, a song inspired by his grandmother’s battle with Alzheimer’s.
Beyond his musical achievements, Costello has been a vocal advocate for humanitarian causes, lending his talents to benefit concerts and social justice initiatives. His commitment to using music as a force for good has remained a constant throughout his career.
Now at 70 years old, Costello continues to perform, though he has hinted that he may step back from recording new music, saying, “I’ve made so many records, might be time to let somebody else make records for a while”.
From his early days as a rebellious songwriter to his status as a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Elvis Costello’s impact on music is undeniable. His ability to blend intelligence, emotion, and musical diversity has made him one of the most respected artists of his generation.
The Softer Side with Carl Rossi
As part of a special collection highlighting unforgettable songs that didn’t quite reach the top of the charts, Carl Rossi showcases one of Elvis Costello’s most iconic tracks, “Alison.”
This is Carl Rossi and I invite you on a journey each week to the Softer Side.
Every Friday afternoon at 5pm, we’ll explore new and familiar music, hear thematic sets, and themed shows. All this and much more, each Friday on KNCT, Simply Beautiful.
Episode 315 Playlist
| Only Love Can Break Your Heart | A.J. Croce |
| I Love L.A. | Randy Newman |
| The Kids Are Alright | The Who |
| Somethin’ Goin’ On | Al Kooper |
| Celluloid Heroes | Kinks |
| Listen | Bob Seger |
| If I’d Been the One | 38 Special |
| Don’t Stop | Status Quo |
| Move On Up | Curtis Mayfield |
| Blowin’ In The Wind | Bob Dylan |
| Black Coffee In Bed | Squeeze |
| Alison | Elvis Costello |
| Lonestar | Norah Jones |
| Born a Woman | Sandy Posey |
| Feels Like Home | Orianthi |
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