Born August 25, 1955 as Declan McManus, Costello became a significant influence in music during the late 70s, 80s, and 90s. The son of British bandleader Ross McManus, Costello worked as a computer programmer during the early '70s, performing under the name D.P. Costello in various folk clubs. Signed to Stiff Records in 1977 as Elvis Costello, he took his name from Elvis Presley and his mother's maiden name. He has made more than 26 albums, incorporating rock, country, Tin Pan Alley pop, reggae, and many other music styles. Some of his albums include My Aim is True (his debut album), This Year's Model, Get Happy, Trust, Goodbye Cruel World and Imperial Bedroom. He released a single in 1985, “The People's Limousine”—a collaborative effort with T-Bone Burnett. According to Allmusic.com, “over his career, that musical eclecticism has distinguished Costello's records as much as his fiercely literate lyrics. Because he supports his lyrics with his richly diverse music, Costello is one of the most innovative, influential and best songwriters since Bob Dylan.”
An important musical figure for Jakob Dylan, who said:
I got interested in playing music on my own. In the early '80s, my older brothers dragged me along to see Elvis Costello, the Clash and X. That was my first introduction to how powerful music is." (USAToday 2.23.97)
Jakob Dylan still plays his London Calling and his Elvis Costello albums on the tour bus. He says listening to them makes him feel melancholy. It's music from a time he discovered the compromises he'd have to make to become a rock star himself. (Details 7.97)
As for influences, Dylan cites several favorites. "Elvis Costello is amazing. And I've always loved Smokey Robinson's words. `Tears of a Clown' is something I wish I had written.'' (St. Paul Pioneer Press 3.22.97)
