Elvis Costello, born Declan Patrick MacManus, is a legendary figure in the world of music. With a career spanning over four decades, Costello has produced some of the most memorable and enduring songs of the modern era. His music has been described as a blend of punk, new wave, and rock and roll, with a distinctive voice and clever lyrics that make him stand out from the crowd.
Over the years, Costello has released more than thirty studio albums, earning him a place among the most prolific songwriters of his generation. His songs cover a wide range of themes, from love and heartbreak to politics and social commentary, and his unique sound has inspired countless musicians and fans around the world.
Choosing the best songs from Costello’s vast discography is no easy task, as his body of work is both diverse and extensive. However, there are certain songs that stand out as classics and are widely recognized as some of his best. These songs showcase Costello’s talent for crafting intelligent, emotionally resonant music that has stood the test of time.
In this article, we will explore some of the best songs of Elvis Costello. We will delve into the stories behind these songs, analyze their musical and lyrical qualities, and examine their impact on the music world. Whether you’re a die-hard Elvis Costello fan or a casual listener, this article will give you a deeper appreciation of one of the most iconic songwriters of our time.
1. “Radio Radio”
“Radio Radio” is a classic rock song by Elvis Costello, released in 1978. The song is known for its catchy melody and its biting commentary on the state of commercial radio in the late 70s. In the song, Costello expresses his frustration with the narrow range of music being played on the radio and the corporate influence that dictates what gets airplay. The lyrics are filled with sarcasm and irony, and Costello’s vocal delivery is intense and energetic. The song’s memorable chorus, “Radio, radio, radio, oh-oh,” has become a staple of Costello’s live performances and remains a favorite among his fans. “Radio Radio” has been covered by numerous artists over the years and has been featured in films, TV shows, and commercials. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and Costello’s talent as a songwriter and performer.
2. “Mystery Dance”
“Mystery Dance” is a high-energy rock song by Elvis Costello, released in 1977 on his debut album “My Aim is True.” The song features Costello’s signature sound, with driving guitar riffs, pounding drums, and his distinctive vocal style. The lyrics of “Mystery Dance” are a mix of romantic and sexual themes, exploring the thrill and danger of new love. The song’s chorus, “Everybody is doing that mystery dance,” is a nod to the excitement and unpredictability of falling in love. “Mystery Dance” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its infectious energy and catchy melody inspiring audiences to dance along. The song has been covered by a variety of artists over the years, including the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Cheap Trick. With its raw, unbridled energy and unabashed celebration of love and desire, “Mystery Dance” remains one of Elvis Costello’s most memorable and enduring songs.
3. “The Scarlet Tide”
“The Scarlet Tide” is a hauntingly beautiful folk song performed by Elvis Costello and written by T-Bone Burnett and Elvis Costello. It was originally featured in the 2003 film, “Cold Mountain,” and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song. The song’s lyrics explore themes of war, loss, and redemption, with haunting imagery and poignant metaphorical language. The somber melody is accompanied by a simple guitar and piano arrangement, creating a haunting atmosphere that perfectly captures the emotional depth of the lyrics. Costello’s voice is filled with emotion and sincerity, conveying a sense of loss and longing that resonates with listeners. “The Scarlet Tide” has since become a fan favorite and has been covered by a variety of artists, including Alison Krauss and The Chieftains. The song’s timeless message about the cost of war and the power of hope and redemption continues to resonate with audiences today, making it one of Elvis Costello’s most enduring and poignant works.
4. “Sulky Girl”
“Sulky Girl” is a driving rock song by Elvis Costello, featured on his 1994 album “Brutal Youth.” The song’s energetic guitar riffs and powerful drumbeat create a sense of urgency and tension, underscoring the song’s lyrics about a woman who is angry and unapproachable. The lyrics of “Sulky Girl” are filled with sharp wit and biting sarcasm, as Costello observes the woman’s behavior and questions her motives. The chorus, “Sulky girl, sulky girl, you act so thick, you’re so unapproachable,” captures the frustration and confusion that the narrator feels as he tries to understand the woman’s behavior. Despite its somewhat confrontational tone, “Sulky Girl” is a highly infectious and energetic song that showcases Costello’s talent for crafting catchy, memorable rock tunes. The song has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its driving beat and memorable hook inspiring audiences to sing along. With its blend of humor and raw energy, “Sulky Girl” remains one of Elvis Costello’s most memorable and enjoyable works.
5. “Watching the Detectives”
“Watching the Detectives” is a classic punk-infused rock song by Elvis Costello, released in 1977 as a single and later included on his debut album “My Aim is True.” The song’s dark, brooding melody and aggressive guitar riffs create a sense of urgency and tension that perfectly matches the song’s lyrics about a man obsessed with crime dramas on television. The lyrics of “Watching the Detectives” are filled with vivid imagery and clever wordplay, as Costello tells the story of a man who becomes increasingly drawn into the world of crime and violence. The song’s memorable chorus, “She’s filing her nails while they’re dragging the lake,” captures the sense of detachment and ennui that the narrator feels as he watches the violence unfold. “Watching the Detectives” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its punk-influenced sound and edgy lyrics inspiring a generation of musicians and fans. The song has been covered by a variety of artists over the years, including The Jam and The Lemonheads, and remains one of Elvis Costello’s most enduring and beloved works.
6. “I Want You”
“I Want You” is a hauntingly intense song by Elvis Costello, released in 1986 on his album “Blood and Chocolate.” The song’s slow, brooding melody and atmospheric instrumentation create a sense of foreboding and tension that perfectly matches the song’s lyrics about a man consumed by obsessive desire. The lyrics of “I Want You” are filled with vivid imagery and raw emotion, as Costello sings about the overpowering hold that a lover has on him. The repeated refrain, “I want you,” becomes increasingly desperate and urgent, conveying a sense of desperation and longing that is both visceral and unsettling. The song’s intricate guitar work and eerie background vocals only add to the sense of unease and intensity that permeates the song. “I Want You” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its intense, almost hypnotic atmosphere inspiring a sense of awe and reverence among fans. The song has been covered by a variety of artists over the years, including Bob Dylan and Fiona Apple, and remains one of Elvis Costello’s most haunting and powerful works.
7. “Veronica”
“Veronica” is a poignant and emotive song by Elvis Costello, released in 1989 on his album “Spike.” The song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus belie its deeply personal and melancholy subject matter, as Costello explores the life and memories of an elderly woman named Veronica. The lyrics of “Veronica” are filled with vivid imagery and emotional resonance, as Costello sings about the woman’s life and the memories that she holds. The chorus, “Veronica, Veronica, you gonna be all right,” conveys a sense of comfort and reassurance in the face of aging and mortality, creating a bittersweet sense of hope and nostalgia. The song’s upbeat instrumentation, which includes a horn section and an accordion, adds to its sense of joy and celebration, underscoring the idea that even in the face of loss and sadness, life is still worth living. “Veronica” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its heartfelt lyrics and infectious melody inspiring a sense of connection and empathy among audiences. The song was co-written with Paul McCartney, who also provided backing vocals and bass on the track, and remains one of Elvis Costello’s most beloved and enduring works.
8. “The Other End of the Telescope”
“The Other End of the Telescope” is a soulful and introspective song by Elvis Costello, released in 1996 on his album “All This Useless Beauty.” The song’s gentle melody and acoustic instrumentation create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that perfectly matches the song’s introspective lyrics about the nature of love and relationships. The lyrics of “The Other End of the Telescope” are filled with poetic imagery and wistful reflection, as Costello sings about the complex emotions that arise when two people are separated by distance or circumstance. The chorus, “And you don’t see me, and you don’t hear me, and you don’t love me, that’s the funny thing,” captures the sense of longing and frustration that the narrator feels as he tries to connect with someone who is not fully present in his life. The song’s gentle, almost melancholy tone underscores the idea that sometimes, love is not enough to bridge the gap between two people. “The Other End of the Telescope” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its poignant lyrics and intimate melody inspiring a sense of reflection and introspection among audiences. The song was co-written with Aimee Mann and remains one of Elvis Costello’s most emotionally resonant works.
9. “Oliver’s Army”
“Oliver’s Army” is a catchy and politically charged song by Elvis Costello and the Attractions, released in 1979 on the album “Armed Forces.” The song’s upbeat melody and sing-along chorus belies its sobering subject matter, as Costello critiques the idea of British colonialism and militarism in the context of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. The lyrics of “Oliver’s Army” are filled with biting social commentary and clever wordplay, as Costello sings about the way in which young men are sent to fight and die in foreign wars without questioning the motives behind them. The chorus, “Oliver’s Army is here to stay, Oliver’s Army are on their way,” is a powerful indictment of the way in which military power is used to enforce political dominance and suppress dissent. The song’s bouncy, almost cheerful tone contrasts sharply with its serious subject matter, underscoring the idea that sometimes, the most effective way to critique oppressive systems is through subversive humor and irony. “Oliver’s Army” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its catchy melody and biting social commentary inspiring a sense of rebelliousness and resistance among audiences. The song remains one of Elvis Costello’s most enduring and beloved works.
10. “Stranger in the House”
“Stranger in the House” is a haunting and evocative song by Elvis Costello, released in 1978 on the album “This Year’s Model.” The song’s mournful melody and sparse instrumentation have made it a fan favorite, with its poignant lyrics and understated performance creating a sense of intimacy and emotional depth that is rare in popular music. The lyrics of “Stranger in the House” are filled with a sense of isolation and loneliness, as Costello sings about the breakdown of a relationship and the sense of dislocation that can accompany it. The chorus, “I’m a stranger in the house, I’m a stranger to myself,” is a powerful reminder of the disorienting and disconcerting nature of loss and heartbreak. The song’s simple guitar and piano accompaniment add to its sense of intimacy and vulnerability, creating a powerful sense of emotional resonance that lingers long after the song has ended. “Stranger in the House” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics inspiring a sense of empathy and understanding among audiences. The song remains one of Elvis Costello’s most moving and emotionally charged works, a testament to his ability to capture the complexities of human relationships with grace and sensitivity.
11. “Wave a White Flag”
“Wave a White Flag” is a driving and energetic song by Elvis Costello and the Imposters, released in 2004 on the album “The Delivery Man.” The song’s propulsive rhythm and raw, bluesy instrumentation create a sense of urgency and defiance that perfectly matches the song’s lyrics about standing up to oppressive forces. The lyrics of “Wave a White Flag” are filled with powerful imagery and righteous anger, as Costello sings about the need to resist and fight back against those who seek to dominate and control. The chorus, “Wave a white flag, never! Show your teeth, always!” is a powerful call to arms for anyone who has ever felt oppressed or marginalized, urging them to stand up and fight for their rights and freedoms. The song’s driving guitar riffs and thundering drums add to its sense of urgency and defiance, creating a powerful sense of momentum and momentum. “Wave a White Flag” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its raw energy and unapologetic message inspiring a sense of rebellion and empowerment among audiences. The song remains one of Elvis Costello’s most powerful and compelling works, a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll as a force for social change and political resistance.
12. “Pump It Up”
“Pump It Up” is a classic and infectious song by Elvis Costello and the Attractions, released in 1978 on the album “This Year’s Model.” The song’s driving rhythm and catchy hooks have made it a perennial favorite of rock fans around the world, with its insistent beat and irresistible melody inspiring countless imitators and admirers over the years. The lyrics of “Pump It Up” are filled with playful innuendo and clever wordplay, as Costello sings about the allure of sex and hedonism in the context of a society that often seems to value materialism and superficiality above all else. The chorus, “Pump it up, until you can feel it, pump it up, when you don’t really need it,” is a tongue-in-cheek commentary on the way in which people often use physical pleasure as a distraction from the emptiness and banality of modern life. The song’s propulsive bassline and driving drums add to its sense of urgency and excitement, creating a powerful sense of energy and momentum. “Pump It Up” has become a rock and roll anthem and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its infectious energy and playful lyrics inspiring a sense of joy and abandon among audiences. The song remains one of Elvis Costello’s most enduring and beloved works, a testament to the enduring power of rock music as a force for liberation and rebellion.
13. “My Little Blue Window”
“My Little Blue Window” is one of the more traditional songs in the album, so it wouldn’t have been my first choice to explore in this space. It’s a quaint little guitar-based pop tune that stops and starts and features a fittingly sweet keyboard line in its singalong chorus. It’s one of the starkest arrangements in an album of dense soundscapes, and it comes off as both a welcome respite from the layers of electronica as well as… somewhat lacking in the songwriting department. I do love how the vocal melody in the verses sounds like it’s almost too long; it twists and stretches and unspools out of the simple country chords behind it. It’s a kind of melodic approach that pops up a few times throughout the course of When I Was Cruel; “Soul for Hire” and “Tart” also feature words that spill out and contort awkwardly to fit the measure with strained but compelling results. The lyrics themselves are also a bit odd for the song that carries them; it seems to be a hesitant suicide note of sorts, which then kicks into a lovelorn plea in its sunny singalong chorus.
14. “Accidents Will Happen”
“Accidents Will Happen” is a catchy and energetic song by Elvis Costello and the Attractions, released in 1979 on the album “Armed Forces.” The song’s infectious melody and upbeat rhythm have made it a fan favorite, with its clever lyrics and pop sensibility creating a sense of fun and excitement that is characteristic of Costello’s early work. The lyrics of “Accidents Will Happen” are filled with clever wordplay and biting wit, as Costello sings about the inevitability of mistakes and missteps in life. The chorus, “Accidents will happen, we only hit and run,” is a wry commentary on the way in which we all stumble and fall at times, but must continue to push forward in spite of our mistakes. The song’s buoyant guitars and driving drums add to its sense of energy and momentum, creating a powerful sense of optimism and resilience that is impossible to resist. “Accidents Will Happen” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its catchy hooks and infectious melody inspiring a sense of joy and celebration among audiences. The song remains one of Elvis Costello’s most enduring and beloved works, a testament to his ability to combine clever wordplay with unforgettable melodies and memorable performances.
15. “Alison”
“Alison” is a haunting and beautiful song by Elvis Costello, released in 1977 on his debut album “My Aim is True.” The song’s gentle melody and poignant lyrics have made it a favorite of fans and critics alike, with its understated beauty and emotional resonance creating a powerful sense of intimacy and connection. The lyrics of “Alison” are filled with wistful longing and regret, as Costello sings about a lost love and the painful memories that linger long after the relationship has ended. The chorus, “My aim is true, my message is clear, it’s love that brings me here,” is a powerful statement of purpose and intent, as Costello lays bare his deepest emotions and desires for all to see. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar and delicate piano add to its sense of intimacy and vulnerability, creating a powerful sense of emotional resonance that lingers long after the song has ended. “Alison” has become a beloved classic and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its timeless beauty and haunting melody inspiring a sense of nostalgia and yearning among audiences. The song remains one of Elvis Costello’s most enduring and beloved works, a testament to his ability to capture the complexities of human emotion with grace and elegance.
16. “You Tripped At Every Step”
“You Tripped at Every Step” is an upbeat and catchy song by Elvis Costello and the Attractions, released in 1994 on the album “Brutal Youth.” The song’s infectious melody and playful lyrics have made it a fan favorite, with its clever wordplay and irreverent humor creating a sense of joy and abandon that is rare in popular music. The lyrics of “You Tripped at Every Step” are filled with witty puns and double entendres, as Costello sings about a hapless lover who seems to stumble and fall at every turn. The chorus, “You tripped at every step, you always hurt the ones you love the best,” is a tongue-in-cheek commentary on the way in which people often sabotage their own relationships through their own clumsiness and missteps. The song’s driving guitars and thundering drums add to its sense of energy and momentum, creating a powerful sense of excitement and anticipation. “You Tripped at Every Step” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its infectious energy and playful lyrics inspiring a sense of fun and mischief among audiences. The song remains one of Elvis Costello’s most delightful and enjoyable works, a testament to his ability to combine clever wordplay with irresistible melodies and unforgettable hooks.
17. “I Hope You’re Happy Now”
“I Hope You’re Happy Now” is a classic breakup song by Elvis Costello, released in 1986 on the album “Blood & Chocolate.” The song’s powerful lyrics and driving rhythm have made it a fan favorite, with its raw emotion and blistering guitar solos creating a sense of urgency and intensity that is rare in popular music. The lyrics of “I Hope You’re Happy Now” are filled with bitter irony and searing sarcasm, as Costello sings about a failed relationship and the painful aftermath of a breakup. The chorus, “I hope you’re happy now, I could never make you so,” is a devastating indictment of a lover who has moved on to greener pastures, leaving behind a trail of hurt and disappointment. The song’s searing guitar solos and thunderous drums add to its sense of raw power and emotion, creating a visceral sense of anger and frustration that is impossible to ignore. “I Hope You’re Happy Now” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its explosive energy and cathartic release inspiring a sense of liberation and catharsis among audiences. The song remains one of Elvis Costello’s most powerful and emotional works, a testament to his ability to capture the complexities of human relationships with raw honesty and searing intensity.
18. “Still Too Soon To Know”
“Still Too Soon to Know” is a poignant ballad by Elvis Costello and the Brodsky Quartet, released in 1993 on the album “The Juliet Letters.” The song’s gentle melody and haunting lyrics have made it a fan favorite, with its introspective tone and emotional resonance creating a powerful sense of intimacy and connection. The lyrics of “Still Too Soon to Know” are filled with regret and sadness, as Costello sings about a lost love and the painful memories that continue to haunt him. The chorus, “It’s still too soon to know, which way our love will go,” is a poignant reminder of the fragile nature of human relationships and the uncertainty that often accompanies them. The song’s delicate piano and strings add to its sense of vulnerability and introspection, creating a powerful sense of emotional resonance that lingers long after the song has ended. “Still Too Soon to Know” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its timeless beauty and haunting melody inspiring a sense of nostalgia and yearning among audiences. The song remains one of Elvis Costello’s most evocative and deeply affecting works, a testament to his ability to capture the complexities of human emotion with grace and elegance.
19. “Beyond Belief”
“Beyond Belief” is a dynamic and powerful song by Elvis Costello and the Attractions, released in 1982 on the album “Imperial Bedroom.” The song’s complex lyrics and soaring melody have made it a fan favorite, with its catchy hooks and intricate arrangements creating a sense of energy and excitement that is rare in popular music. The lyrics of “Beyond Belief” are filled with clever wordplay and literary allusions, as Costello sings about the illusions and delusions of love and the dangerous allure of desire. The chorus, “History repeats the old conceits, the glib replies, the same defeats,” is a biting commentary on the cyclical nature of human relationships and the patterns of behavior that often lead to their downfall. The song’s driving guitars and thundering drums add to its sense of urgency and momentum, creating a powerful sense of drama and intensity. “Beyond Belief” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its intricate arrangements and dynamic energy inspiring a sense of awe and admiration among audiences. The song remains one of Elvis Costello’s most compelling and emotionally charged works, a testament to his ability to combine clever wordplay with unforgettable melodies and powerful performances.
20. “Cheap Reward”
“Cheap Reward” is a gritty and intense song by Elvis Costello and the Attractions, released in 1978 on the album “This Year’s Model.” The song’s driving rhythm and edgy vocals have made it a fan favorite, with its biting lyrics and scorching guitar solos creating a sense of urgency and excitement that is characteristic of Costello’s early work. The lyrics of “Cheap Reward” are filled with cynicism and bitterness, as Costello sings about the hollow promises and empty gestures of modern life. The chorus, “Cheap reward, cheap reward, another engagement to avoid,” is a wry commentary on the superficiality and shallowness of contemporary culture, and the way in which it can leave us feeling empty and unfulfilled. The song’s searing guitar solos and pounding drums add to its sense of intensity and drive, creating a powerful sense of energy and momentum that is impossible to ignore. “Cheap Reward” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Costello’s live shows, with its raw emotion and blistering performances inspiring a sense of liberation and catharsis among audiences. The song remains one of Elvis Costello’s most hard-hitting and emotionally charged works, a testament to his ability to capture the frustrations and disappointments of everyday life with raw honesty and unflinching intensity.
April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
