Elvis Costello, born D.P. MacManus in London, is one of the most influential and versatile figures in contemporary music. He rose to fame in the late 1970s with his debut album My Aim Is True, blending punk, new wave, and pop influences. Over his five-decade career, Costello has released more than 35 albums, including landmark records like Get Happy, Imperial Bedroom, and King of America. His music spans genres from rock and pop to jazz, classical, and country, often blending sharp lyrical wit with diverse musical styles.
Having penned over 600 published songs, Costello is a prolific songwriter. His notable collaborations include a long-running partnership with Burt Bacharach, producing the acclaimed album Painted From Memory, as well as co-writing songs with Paul McCartney, Allen Toussaint, and many others. He has written for artists like Johnny Cash, Dusty Springfield, and Roy Orbison, and his compositions have been recorded by icons such as Linda Ronstadt and George Jones. He’s also contributed to film soundtracks, including the Academy Award-nominated song “The Scarlet Tide” for Cold Mountain.
In addition to his solo work, Costello has led several backing bands, including the Attractions, The Imposters, and His Confederates, and has collaborated with jazz and classical musicians, performing with the Mingus Big Band, the Metropole Orkest, and symphonies worldwide. His influence extends beyond recording; he’s produced albums for The Specials, Squeeze, and The Pogues, showcasing his impact across genres. Costello’s songwriting continues to evolve, with recent projects like Hey Clockface and The Boy Named If earning critical acclaim.
Steve Nieve, a fellow Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, has been a member of Costello’s backing bands The Attractions, The Imposters, and Madness in a career spanning more than 40 years. The collaboration between Costello and Nieve spans over 45 years, with appearances together on 25 record albums — from Watching The Detectives to The Boy Named If — and on countless stages.
Join these two legends as they take you on a journey through their storied songbook.
