Nick Lowe: 'Elvis Costello had a brand new bag. He was a musician, but he knew all about the attitude part of it.'

Elvis Costello had a brand new bag. He was a musician, but he knew all about the attitude part of it.

In the world of music, there have been countless musicians who have left an indelible mark with their unique styles and attitudes. One such artist is Elvis Costello, who once had a brand new bag. British singer-songwriter Nick Lowe perfectly captured the essence of Costello's musical persona with his statement, "Elvis Costello had a brand new bag. He was a musician, but he knew all about the attitude part of it."At first glance, this quote seems to emphasize the importance of attitude in the world of music. It suggests that being a talented musician is not enough; one must also possess a certain attitude, a certain charisma that sets them apart from the rest. In Elvis Costello's case, this attitude was evident in the way he carried himself both on and off stage, with a confidence and persona that resonated with his audience.Beyond the surface-level interpretation, however, this quote holds a profound philosophical concept worth exploring. It invites us to ponder the relationship between artistry and attitude, and how the two intertwine to create a unique identity. Often, we view musicians solely through the lens of their musical abilities, focusing on their technical skills and compositional prowess. While these aspects are undoubtedly important, Elvis Costello's brand new bag reminds us that there is more to being a musician than just playing the right notes.Think of attitude as the bridge between the musician and the listener. It is the intangible force that shapes the artist's connection with their audience, transcending the mere act of creating and performing music. Attitude infuses the music with emotion, tells a story, and allows the artist to express their personality. It is the nonverbal conversation between the artist and the listener, the unspoken understanding that goes beyond melody and lyrics.Elvis Costello understood this concept well. His attitude was an integral part of his artistic identity, fueling his music with a raw intensity that captured the hearts of many. His unconventional style, blending elements of punk, new wave, and rock, was matched by his unwavering confidence and fierce stage presence. Costello's music was not just a collection of well-crafted songs; it was an embodiment of his attitude, a reflection of his rebellious spirit and unapologetic authenticity.In contrast, there are musicians who may possess incredible technical skills but lack that elusive attitude that connects them with their audience on a deeper level. While their performances may be technically flawless, there can be a sense of detachment, an absence of that personal touch that makes the music truly special. These musicians, though undoubtedly talented, may struggle to leave a lasting impact due to the absence of that intangible element.Therefore, the quote by Nick Lowe not only highlights the importance of attitude in music but also provokes introspection about the role attitude plays in the larger artistic landscape. It encourages us to reevaluate the way we perceive musicians and challenge the notion that technical proficiency alone guarantees greatness. Attitude, as evidenced by Elvis Costello, is the magical ingredient that can elevate music to new heights, making it resonate with listeners on a profound level.So, the next time you witness a musician who possesses that special something, that brand new bag, take a moment to appreciate the intricate balance between their musical abilities and their attitude. Consider the impact this attitude has on their performances and on your own experience as a listener. In doing so, you may discover a newfound appreciation for the artists who truly understand the power of "the attitude part" of being a musician.