Elvis Costello was born Declan Patrick MacManus in London, England and raised in Liverpool. The son of British band leader Ross MacManus, Costello took his pseudonym from Elvis Presley and his mother's maiden name (Costello). He began performing professionally in 1969 and was a musician and/or singer in many bands around London before forming a moderately successful pub-rock band called "Flip City" in the mid-1970s. Working full time as a computer operator, he landed his first record deal with Stiff Records in 1977 and recorded his first album "My Aim Is True" while on vacation. The album was a smash hit in England and landed Costello a worldwide distribution deal with Columbia records. Forming his backup group, "The Attractions", for his second album, Costello went on to record several popular and influential albums over the next decade. Today, he is regarded as one of the most influential and popular singer/songwriters in modern music. In 1998, he collaborated with legendary tune smith, Burt Bacharach, on a highly successful album of love songs "Painted From Memory".


Legally changed name to Elvis Costello in 1977, then to Declan Patrick Aloysius MacManus in 1986. Post-1986, he used both names for professional purposes, though he usually performed under the Costello moniker. "Aloysius" was not one of his original middle names. Son of Ross MacManus Lead singer and guitarist of 'Elvis Costello and the Attractions'. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (as a member of the 'Elvis Costello and the Attractions') on 10 March 2003. Attended the special dinner at Sony Studios in Los Angeles to honor the singer and activist Sting as MusiCares 2004 Person of the Year. The evening celebrated Sting's contribution to popular music and honored his charitable work with Amnesty International and the Rainforest Foundation. Other stars in attendance included Kylie Minogue, Elton John & Dido. (6th February 2004). Is a big fan of Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys. Through Diana Krall, Jamie Chisholm is related to Elvis Costello. Resides in New York City.