Elvis Costello

Elvis Costello, born Declan Patrick MacManus on August 25, 1954, is an English songwriter, singer, record producer, author, and television presenter. Considered one of the most versatile and gifted songwriters of his generation, Costello's debut album, 'My Aim Is True' (1977), is highly regarded in the history of popular music. Although it did not produce any hit singles, it featured memorable songs like 'Alison'. Costello's subsequent albums, 'This Year's Model' (1978) and 'Armed Forces' (1979), recorded with his backing band the Attractions, helped define the new wave music genre. In the UK, all eight singles he released from 1977 to 1980 reached the Top 30, with his biggest hit, 'Oliver's Army' (1979), selling over 400,000 copies. While achieving more modest commercial success in the US, Costello is widely praised by music critics.