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Our top 10 covers of Elvis Costello songs article presents a wonderful showcase of the work of one of the greatest songwriters of the 20th and 21st centuries. Elvis Costello is probably not given his due when it comes to historic songwriters. The man has collaborated with some of the finest songwriters of all time, such as Burt Bacharach, Paul McCartney, and many others. Not many songwriters get the opportunity to collaborate with such esteemed and legendary artists as Elvis Costello has.
Elvis Costello’s career began in 1977 when he released his first album, My Aim Is True. Since then, he has released 33 studio albums. For someone who has released so much material, it was a bit challenging to find cover songs that we really enjoyed. There are a lot of covers done by unknown artists, which we tend not to showcase on this list because people want to hear stuff from artists they’ve heard of. By far, his most popular covered songs are “Alison” from his first album and “God Give Me Strength” from his collaboration with Burt Bacharach. Nonetheless, we tried to limit the list to one cover version per song to make it interesting. We think we put together 10 pretty good ones. We hope you enjoy this list.
# 10 – Stranger In The House – Rachel Sweet
We open up our top 10 covers of Elvis Costello songs list with the fabulous song “Stranger in the House” by Rachel Sweet. This cover was released on her debut album Fool Around. The album first came out in the United Kingdom on October 13, 1978, via Stiff Records, and later in the United States in July 1979, with a revised track listing.
The original version of “Stranger in the House” by Elvis Costello was recorded in 1977 and included as a bonus track on the 1979 U.S. version of his debut album My Aim Is True. The song is characterized by its country-rock influence and poignant lyrics about a deteriorating relationship.
Rachel Sweet’s lineup for the cover included Rachel Sweet on vocals, Charley Charles on drums, Mickey Gallagher on piano, Brinsley Schwarz on rhythm guitar, and Norman Watt-Roy on bass guitar.
# 9 – Radio Radio – Sum-41
Continuing with our top 10 covers of Elvis Costello songs list, we take a listen to “Radio Radio” by Sum 41. This cover was released as a B-side to their single “Still Waiting” in 2002. Sum 41’s high-energy punk rock style brings a fresh and vibrant feel to the track.
The original version of “Radio Radio” by Elvis Costello was released as a single in 1978 and later included on the U.S. version of his album This Year’s Model. The song reached number 29 on the UK Singles Chart. It is known for its sharp critique of the music industry’s control over radio playlists, catchy melody, and rebellious lyrics. The original features Elvis Costello on vocals and guitar, Steve Nieve on keyboards, Bruce Thomas on bass, and Pete Thomas on drums. Sum 41’s lineup for the cover featured Deryck Whibley on vocals and guitar.
# 8 – Oliver’s Army – Blur
In the number eight position on our top 10 covers of Elvis Costello songs list is “Oliver’s Army” by Blur. This cover was released as a B-side to their single “Sunday Sunday” in 1993. Blur’s rendition of “Oliver’s Army” brings a Britpop twist to the song, highlighting the band’s distinctive style. The original version of “Oliver’s Army” by Elvis Costello appeared on his 1979 album Armed Forces. The song is known for its catchy piano riff and politically charged lyrics, making it one of Costello’s most successful singles. The original features Elvis Costello on vocals and guitar, Steve Nieve on keyboards, Bruce Thomas on bass, and Pete Thomas on drums. Blur’s lineup for the cover included Damon Albarn on vocals, Graham Coxon on guitar, Alex James on bass, and Dave Rowntree on drums.
# 7 – Busy Bodies – Fastball
In the number seven position on our top 10 covers of Elvis Costello songs list is a great cover by our friends Fastball. is “Busy Bodies” was released on the 2010 tribute album Unexpected Guests. Fastball brings their unique alternative rock style to the track, adding a fresh and energetic interpretation.
The original version of “Busy Bodies” by Elvis Costello appeared on his 1979 album Armed Forces. The song is characterized by its witty lyrics and catchy melody, typical of Costello’s work during this period. The original features Elvis Costello on vocals and guitar, Steve Nieve on keyboards, Bruce Thomas on bass, and Pete Thomas on drums.
Fastball’s lineup for the cover included Tony Scalzo on vocals and bass, Miles Zuniga on guitar, and Joey Shuffield on drums.
Read More: Fastball: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview
# 6 – Watching the Detectives – Duran Duran
At the number six spot on our top 10 covers of Elvis Costello songs list, we present the song “Watching the Detectives” by Duran Duran. This cover was released on their 1995 album Thank You. Duran Duran’s version stays true to the original while adding their signature new wave flair.
The original version of “Watching the Detectives” by Elvis Costello was released as a single in 1977 and later included on the U.S. version of his debut album My Aim Is True. The song is known for its reggae-influenced rhythm and dark, cinematic lyrics. The original features Costello on vocals and guitar, Steve Nieve on keyboards, Bruce Thomas on bass, and Pete Thomas on drums. This track helped establish Costello as a formidable new voice in the punk and new wave scenes.
Duran Duran’s lineup for the cover included Simon Le Bon on vocals, Nick Rhodes on keyboards, John Taylor on bass, and a pair of ex-Frank Zappa band musicians, Warren Cuccurullo on guitar and Terry Bozzio on drums. Their rendition of “Watching the Detectives” brings a polished, modern twist to Costello’s classic, highlighting the band’s tight instrumentation and Le Bon’s distinctive vocal delivery.
# 5 – High Fidelity Q-Tips featuring Paul Young
At the halfway point on our top 10 covers of Elvis Costello songs list, we present the song “High Fidelity” by Q-Tips featuring Paul Young. This cover was released as a single in 1982 and features Paul Young’s distinctive vocals.
The original version of “High Fidelity” by Elvis Costello appeared on his 1980 album Get Happy!!. The album is known for its Motown and soul influences, with “High Fidelity” standing out as a high-energy track characterized by its punchy rhythm and sharp lyrics. The song features Elvis Costello on vocals and guitar, Steve Nieve on keyboards, Bruce Thomas on bass, and Pete Thomas on drums. The lineup for Q-Tips at the time of their cover included Paul Young on vocals, John Gifford on guitar, Dave Lathwell on bass, Baz Watts on drums, and a brass section featuring Brian Maurice, Tony Hughes, and Steve Farr.
# 4 – Pump It Up – Sammy Hagar & Circle
Moving along on our top 10 covers of Elvis Costello songs list, we present the song “Pump It Up” by Sammy Hagar & The Circle. This energetic and rocking rendition brings a new level of excitement to the classic track, with Sammy Hagar’s powerful vocals and The Circle’s tight musicianship making it a memorable cover.
Sammy Hagar & The Circle’s version of “Pump It Up” was released on their 2021 album Lockdown 2020. The lineup for The Circle at the time included Sammy Hagar on vocals, Michael Anthony on bass, Vic Johnson on guitar, and Jason Bonham on drums. Their rendition stands out for its high-energy performance and modern rock twist, providing a dynamic and spirited tribute to the original.
The original version of “Pump It Up” by Elvis Costello appeared on his 1978 album This Year’s Model. The lineup for Elvis Costello & The Attractions included Elvis Costello on vocals and guitar, Steve Nieve on keyboards, Bruce Thomas on bass, and Pete Thomas on drums. Costello’s version is known for its punk-influenced rock sound and catchy rhythm, making it a classic track in his discography.
# 3 – God Give Me Strength – Audra McDonald
Moving along on our top 10 covers of Elvis Costello songs list, we present the song “God Give Me Strength” by Audra McDonald. This one is simply breathtaking. Audra McDonald’s rendition of the song showcases her incredible vocal range and dramatic interpretation, making it a standout version that captures the song’s emotional depth.
Audra McDonald’s cover of “God Give Me Strength” was released on her 2013 album Go Back Home. The original version of “God Give Me Strength” was co-written by Elvis Costello and Burt Bacharach and appeared on their 1998 album Painted from Memory. Audra McDonald’s cover stands out for its powerful delivery and nuanced performance, providing a heartfelt and captivating tribute to this beautiful composition.
# 2 – Almost Blue – Diana Krall
Just off the top spot on our top 10 covers of Elvis Costello songs list, we celebrate the song “Almost Blue” by Diana Krall, who is also Elvis Costello’s wife. This cover was released on her 2004 album The Girl in the Other Room. Diana Krall’s rendition of “Almost Blue” is a beautifully melancholic and jazz-infused interpretation that highlights her smooth and breathtaking vocal style, along with her exceptional piano skills.
The original version of “Almost Blue” by Elvis Costello appeared on his 1982 album Imperial Bedroom. Diana Krall’s version stands out for its intimate and heartfelt delivery, providing a poignant and soulful tribute to her husband’s classic song.
# 1 – Alison – Linda Ronstadt
We close out our top 10 covers of Elvis Costello songs list with the song “Alison” by Linda Ronstadt. This cover was released on her 1978 album Living in the USA. Linda Ronstadt’s rendition of “Alison” brings a softer, more melodic touch to the track, highlighting her powerful and emotive vocal abilities. It’s just so amazing how Linda Ronstadt could take anyone else’s song and bring it to an entirely new level. She stands out as one of the greatest and most loved rock vocalists of all time.
The lineup for Linda Ronstadt at the time included Dan Dugmore on guitar, Kenny Edwards on bass, Russ Kunkel on drums, and Peter Asher as the producer. The original version of “Alison” by Elvis Costello appeared on his 1977 debut album My Aim Is True. Ronstadt’s version stands out for its gentle instrumentation and heartfelt delivery, making it a beautiful tribute to Costello’s original.
Top 10 Covers Of Elvis Costello Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
Nice! Thanks!
Thanks Brian, but I’m not sure how Girls Talk by Dave Edmunds isn’t #1 (by far), let alone not on the list!!!
It will become one of the great mysteries of the universe. Thanks for coming to the site, my friend.