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Elvis Costello, born Declan Patrick MacManus, is an iconic singer-songwriter celebrated for his eclectic style and sharp lyrics. Rising to fame with his debut album My Aim Is True, he shaped the music career of the late 20th century. Known for hits like Alison and Pump It Up, his albums have sold millions globally.
A member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Elvis Costello has won multiple awards, including a Grammy Award. Beyond music, he excelled in television ventures and collaborations with legends like Paul McCartney. With a net worth of $70 million, he lives between Vancouver and New York with his wife, Diana Krall.
Quick Key Facts
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Declan Patrick MacManus |
| Stage Name | Elvis Costello |
| Date of Birth | August 25, 1954 |
| Age (2025) | 69 years |
| Birthplace | Paddington, London, England |
| Nationality | English |
| Ethnicity | Irish descent (from father) |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Spouse | Diana Krall (m. 2003) |
| Previous Spouses | Cait O’Riordan (1986–2002), Mary Burgoyne (1974–1984) |
| Children | – Dexter Henry Lorcan MacManus (b. 2006)- Frank Harlan James MacManus (b. 2006)- Matthew MacManus (from first marriage) |
| Profession | Musician, Singer, Songwriter, Composer |
| Genres | Rock, New Wave, Punk Rock, Pop |
| Debut Album | My Aim Is True (1977) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $70 million |
| Key Collaborations | Paul McCartney, Burt Bacharach, The Roots |
| Honors | – Grammy Award Winner- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee (2003) |
| Parents | – Ross MacManus (Father)- Lilian MacManus (Mother) |
| Siblings | Ronan, Ruari, Liam, Kieran |
| Residence | Vancouver, Canada, and New York, USA |
Personal Life
Elvis Costello leads a relatively private life but is known for his eclectic interests and dedication to his family.
Hobbies and Interests
- Literature: Costello is an avid reader and often incorporates literary references into his songwriting.
- Philanthropy: He actively supports music education programs and charities promoting the arts.
Relationship
Marriage to Diana Krall
Elvis Costello married Diana Krall, a renowned jazz pianist and singer, in 2003. The couple shares twin sons, Dexter Henry Lorcan MacManus and Frank Harlan James MacManus, born in 2006.
Previous Marriages
- Mary Burgoyne (1974–1984): His first wife and the mother of his eldest son, Matthew.
- Cait O’Riordan (1986–2002): Former bassist of The Pogues, whom Costello married during the height of his fame.
Family Life
Costello values his role as a father and husband, balancing his career with family commitments.
Education
Elvis Costello attended St. Edmund’s Catholic School in London. While he didn’t pursue higher education, his upbringing in a musical household profoundly shaped his career. His father, Ross MacManus, was a jazz trumpeter and singer, which greatly influenced Costello’s early exposure to music.
Physical Appearance
Height and Build
Elvis Costello stands at 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) and maintains a slim build. His distinctive look, including his iconic glasses and often stylish suits, has become synonymous with his persona.
Distinctive Features
- Signature Glasses: A hallmark of his image since the start of his career.
- Dark Hair: Often styled in a way that complements his vintage aesthetic.
What Is Elvis Costello’s Net Worth in 2025?
Elvis Costello’s net worth is estimated at $70 million in 2025. This impressive figure reflects earnings from album sales, live performances, media appearances, and collaborations with legendary artists like Paul McCartney and Burt Bacharach.
How It Compares:
| Year | Net Worth | Major Achievements |
| 2020 | $60 million | Grammy win for Look Now |
| 2023 | $68 million | International tours, successful re-releases |
| 2025 | $70 million | Ongoing royalties, new collaborations |
Salary and Finance Overview
Elvis Costello’s annual income comes from multiple revenue streams, including:
- Music Royalties: Steady earnings from popular albums like My Aim is True and This Year’s Model.
- Live Performances: Tours remain a cornerstone of his income streams, bringing in millions annually.
- Media Ventures: Hosting Spectacle: Elvis Costello with… and acting in films like Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me added to his wealth.
Major Revenue Sources
Albums and Music Sales
Elvis Costello’s albums have sold millions of copies worldwide. His debut, My Aim is True (1977), and Armed Forces (1979) are among his most successful musical works.
- Album Sales Highlights:
- My Aim Is True: Over 1 million copies sold.
- This Year’s Model: Certified Platinum in multiple countries.
Tours and Live Performances
Costello’s concert tours have been pivotal in boosting his wealth. Notable live performances include:
- The 1986 Costello Sings Again Tour, which grossed over $15 million.
- Global festivals like Live Aid and Self Aid.
Streaming Platforms and Licensing
With the rise of platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, Costello’s songs have seen renewed popularity. Hits like Alison and Pump It Up generate significant royalties.
Collaborations That Shaped His Career
Paul McCartney Collaboration
Elvis Costello teamed up with Paul McCartney for the 1989 Spike album, co-writing tracks like Veronica. This partnership was both a creative and financial success.
Burt Bacharach
Costello’s collaboration with Burt Bacharach on Painted from Memory (1998) showcased his versatility. This project not only won critical acclaim but also bolstered his financial success.
Other Notable Partnerships
- The Roots: Collaboration on Wise Up Ghost.
- Nick Lowe: Longtime producer and music partner.
Television Ventures and Media Appearances
Elvis Costello expanded his financial streams through television ventures:
- Spectacle: Elvis Costello with…: A critically acclaimed TV show featuring interviews and performances with music legends.
- Film Appearances: Roles in movies like Austin Powers added to his earnings.
Significant Tours and Performances
Costello’s global tours remain a key source of income. Highlights include:
- Elvis Costello and the Attractions: Memorable performances with his backing band.
- Solo Artist Performances: Intimate acoustic sets that drew dedicated fans.
Revenue Breakdown from Tours:
| Tour Name | Year | Revenue Generated |
| Costello Sings Again Tour | 1986 | $15 million |
| Look Now Tour | 2019 | $12 million |
| Self Aid (Ireland) | 1986 | $5 million |
Honors and Awards That Elevated His Career
Grammy Awards
Elvis Costello is a Grammy winner, with notable victories including:
- Look Now for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album in 2020.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003, Costello’s legacy as a trailblazer in music was cemented.
Other Accolades:
- MTV Video Music Award for Veronica.
- Recognition as an iconic musician by Rolling Stone.
Personal Life and Financial Decisions
Elvis Costello has also made strategic financial moves:
- Real Estate: Properties in New York and Vancouver, shared with his wife, Diana Krall.
- Philanthropy: Active support for music education programs.
FAQ’s
What is Elvis Costello’s Biggest Hit?
Elvis Costello’s most iconic hit is Alison, a standout from his debut album My Aim Is True. Other notable songs like Pump It Up and Veronica have also achieved lasting popularity, solidifying his place in music history.
Where Does Elvis Costello Live Now?
Elvis Costello currently splits his time between Vancouver, Canada, and New York City. He shares his home with his wife, Diana Krall, and their twin sons.
Why Did Elvis Costello Call Himself Elvis?
Costello adopted the name Elvis as a nod to Elvis Presley, adding a touch of rebellion and charisma to his stage persona. He combined it with his father’s stage name, Costello, to honor his musical roots.
How Is Elvis Costello’s Health?
Costello faced a health scare in 2018 when he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer. Following successful treatment, he has returned to performing and continues to stay active in his career.
Is Elvis the Greatest of All Time?
While opinions may vary, Elvis Costello is undeniably one of the most influential singer-songwriters in modern music. His blend of sharp lyrics, innovative melodies, and genre-spanning collaborations have earned him critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.
What Was Elvis’s Last Number One Hit?
Elvis Costello’s most recent major chart success came with She in 1999, featured in the film Notting Hill. Although not a traditional number one hit, it remains a fan favorite and a standout in his catalog.
Why Is Elvis Costello Famous?
Costello rose to fame as a trailblazer in the punk and new wave movements of the late 1970s. His debut album, My Aim Is True, and his work with The Attractions showcased his unique sound and lyrical brilliance, earning him global recognition.
Is Elvis Costello Still Performing?
Yes, Elvis Costello is still performing. He continues to tour internationally, often with his band The Imposters, delivering unforgettable live performances that blend his classic hits with newer material.
Where Is Elvis Home?
Elvis Costello considers Vancouver, Canada, his primary home, where he lives with Diana Krall and their family. He also spends time in New York City, where he often works on his music.
Conclusion
Elvis Costello, born Declan Patrick MacManus, is a renowned singer-songwriter whose dynamic music career spans over four decades. Rising to fame with his debut album My Aim Is True, he became a pioneer of punk and new wave, delivering hits like Alison and Pump It Up. With millions of albums sold and celebrated collaborations with legends like Paul McCartney and Burt Bacharach, Elvis Costello has cemented his legacy in music history.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he’s also a Grammy Award winner. Beyond music, his television ventures and live tours have bolstered his $70 million net worth. He resides in Vancouver and New York with his wife, Diana Krall.
