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Rock Musician Elvis Costello

Costello's first album, My Aim Is True, showcased his tough but emotional songwriting and his classic rock star persona. He joins Fresh Air to discuss his growth as a singer, and to perform a few of his songs.

27:47
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Other segments from the episode on February 28, 1989

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, February 28, 1989: Interview with Elvis Costello; Commentary on 1960s music from rural Louisiana; Interview with Michael Tucker; Review of Margaret Atwood's novel "Cat's…
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06:33

Louisiana's Lesser-Known, Home-Grown Talent

Rock historian Ed Ward says there was talent all over the state during the 1950s and '60s. Despite their excellent music, most of the recording artists of this era faded into obscurity. But contemporary musicians like Willie Nelson and Elvis Costello are rediscovering Louisiana's soulful, forgotten legacy.

Commentary
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09:47

L.A. Law Star Michael Tucker

Tucker says he's often confused with the character he plays on the legal drama -- which also stars Jill Eikenberry as his wife. He's featured in the new made-for-TV movie, Day One.

Interview
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03:28

A Novel of "Nightmare Unhappiness"

Book critic John Leonard says that leading feminist author Margaret Atwood can be alternately lyrical and severe. Her latest novel, Cat's Eye, is a dark look at a painter's fraught friendships with other women.

Review

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Transcripts are created on a rush deadline, and accuracy and availability may vary. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Please be aware that the authoritative record of Fresh Air interviews and reviews are the audio recordings of each segment.

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06:59

A Pop Star's Refreshing, New Maturity

Rock critic Ken Tucker says that most singer-songwritiers who find success early on never recapture the spark of their best work later in their career. But Elvis Costello bucks the trend on his 13th album, Spike.

Review
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16:40

Elvis Costello Writes for String Quartet

In the late 1970s, Costello burst out of Britian's pop-music scene as an angry young-man with a fresh sound. On his new release, "The Juliet Letters," he works with the Brodsky Quartet. His new songs are based on a correspondence addressed to Juliet Capulet of "Romeo and Juliet."

Interview

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