Elvis Costello: podcast appearances and interviews

Declan Patrick MacManus, known professionally as Elvis Costello, is an English singer, songwriter, record producer, author, and television host born on 25 August 1954. Raised in a musical family, he developed an appreciation for a wide array of musical styles and gained an insider’s perspective on the music industry. Costello’s career emerged alongside the rise of punk rock in England, and his early work was characterized by a disguise of his extensive musical knowledge, influenced by the punk primitivism. His debut album, My Aim Is True, released in 1977, included notable songs such as the ballad Alison. His subsequent albums, This Year’s Model and Armed Forces, helped shape the new wave genre. Between 1977 and 1980, all of his singles ranked in the UK Top 30, including the hit Oliver’s Army. Though his commercial success in the US has been more modest, he has garnered critical acclaim, with albums like This Year’s Model and Imperial Bedroom frequently ranking high among critics. Costello’s collaborations span a diverse range of musicians including the Brodsky Quartet, Allen Toussaint, and the Roots. He has co-written songs with Paul McCartney and partnered with Burt Bacharach over many years. His songs have been covered by numerous artists, and his own recordings include hits like Veronica and (What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace Love and Understanding. In addition to music, he hosted the television show Spectacle: Elvis Costello with… from 2008 to 2010 and published a memoir, Unfaithful Music & Disappearing Ink, in 2015. Costello was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2019 for his services to music.