Elvis Costello, the iconic English singer-songwriter, joins the hosts to discuss his new ‘King of America’ boxset. He shares insights on the profound connections between his music and American traditions, alongside his fruitful collaboration with T-Bone Burnett. Elvis reflects on meeting Johnny Cash, funny childhood stories, and how personal experiences shape his songwriting. The conversation also touches on the emotional themes in his song 'I Want You' and the impact of familial ties on his artistic evolution.
Elvis Costello discusses the release of his 'King of America' box set, including demos and live recordings that celebrate his musical journey.
He reflects on the profound influence of his father's passion for music on his own career and artistic identity.
Costello emphasizes the importance of universal storytelling in songwriting, drawing parallels with renowned artists like Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan.
Deep dives
Mint Mobile's Price Cut
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Gary's Musical Journey
Gary has made a return from a successful tour, sharing the emotional experiences of performing at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden. He expresses a sentimental attachment to the band, highlighting the strong bonds formed during the tour, which he describes as a family-like atmosphere. The camaraderie among the musicians extends beyond the stage, as they share memories of their time together, marking it as a pivotal moment in their artistic journey. He also announced the pre-order for his new album titled 'This Destination,' providing listeners with an eagerness for upcoming music.
Elvis Costello's Upcoming Album and Legacy
The conversation shifts to Elvis Costello, who discusses the release of a box set based on his 1986 album 'King of America.' This collection includes not just the original music but also demos and live recordings, celebrating his journey through American music. Costello reflects on the influence of his childhood and family, noting how his father's passion for music shaped his own career. He draws connections between his work and that of other artists, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in songwriting.
The Influence of American Music
Costello speaks intimately about his fascination with American music, describing it as a blend of various influences that shaped his artistic identity. Names like Georgie Fame and Graham Parsons are highlighted, illustrating the interplay between British and American musical styles. He recalls how these artists inspired him and contributed to the evolution of genres such as country rock. This blending of influences has allowed him to forge a unique sound, enriching his songwriting and performance style.
Crafting Personal and Universal Narratives
The discussion delves into the craftsmanship of songwriting, where Costello emphasizes the importance of creating lyrics that resonate universally. He compares personal experiences to the likes of Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan, noting the fine balance between emotional honesty and the need for broader appeal. Costello highlights how songs must transcend individual narratives to become relatable to the audience. This approach fosters deeper connections with listeners, transcending time and personal circumstances.
This week on Rockonteurs we welcome Elvis Costello to the podcast. Elvis chats to Guy and Gary about the new ‘King of America’ boxset and some of the superb tracks off that album like ‘America Without Tears’. Elvis also talks about his well established and highly productive relationship with producer T-Bone Burnett, meeting Johnny Cash and how his father got an autographed photo of Duke Ellington.
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