Elvis Costello & The Attractions - Oliver's Army

[@carlconnor2650]

Brilliant track ,proving that class never ages.Lyrics still relevant today..

[@stuarthartley7428]

Class indeed. !

[@MrDaiseymay]

i'M SURPRISED HIS LINE ABOUT WHITE , YOU KNOW WHAT'S , HASN'T BEEN SCRUBBED.

[@lillired857]

@@MrDaiseymay its all about context

[@Trip_Fontaine]

@@MrDaiseymay It's often scrubbed when played on the radio. In case you didn't know, "white n***er" was a term the English would use for the Irish. The song is about Northern Ireland, and more generally about British imperialism all over the world.

[@Josh_ThatsNotMyName_ItsHis1]

Yes, they certainly are!

[@creakyboards8517]

1:11 >drops the n bomb >goes into one of the best choruses ever >frolicks around a beach like a 5 year old

[@ConnorUdhus]

🤣🤣

[@waynemurphy6708]

It's white-n bomb, what the British army called the local Irish nationalists during the troubles.

[@MrDaiseymay]

@@waynemurphy6708 I BET REFERENCES TO OLIVER CROMWELL, WENT DOWN WELL IN IRELAND.

[@rickyhunt4075]

It's meant to be subversive the song is a critique of the British Empire and racism or the idea that the British were better than everyone else. He used the word because it was a slur British people used during the Troubles. No blacks, no dogs, no irish was a common sign back in those days. You have to understand the context in how he used it. That being said he himself has urged people to stop listening to it and said he regrets it. So this is a weird disconnect between an artists and their fans.

[@harrodsfan]

@@waynemurphy6708 👍

[@Reizermo]

Met him twice on the street in London. We had a nice chat. He even remembered me the second time. Sound guy. Amazing talent.

[@fisherdole196]

I saw him live in London, he came down from the stage and passed playing the guitar just next to me, I didnt know what to do when he came just a feet or two next to me so I just touched him and said someting stupid I guess?

[@stuartmckern6206]

Wow!!

[@0002EcM]

He married above his weight

[@jorgelab453]

cool

[@SK-le1gm]

That’s awesome!! 🤣 I met morrissey at an organic grocery store in LA once!! Yes, he does his own shopping 🛒

[@andrespaz-moscoso2291]

I’m probably the youngest in this comment section. I’m 14 and this was my dad’s favorite song. He passed a month ago and I’m listening on repeat because of him

[@ConnorUdhus]

I'm just a teensy bit older, 16 turning 17 in a couple weeks. Recently got into Costello and no one under the age of 50 seems to care! I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm sure he would be so grateful you're reconnecting with his favorites.

[@williamhilinsky1327]

God bless your dad.

[@catkinscat6082]

Bless you, music can help you through the worst of times

[@mickeymisa9350]

Bless you, you had a lovely father and you will be a good man for this. respect to you.

[@davidian2.024]

Respect, good resonations

[@rotesan]

The best song of Elvis Costello...

[@ArchStanton-xw2bd]

Watching the Detectives is his best

[@lyntonryan4766]

"Pump It Up" that's the one ! But they were ALL good !

[@itsinthetreesitscoming7431]

I'll raise you a Tokyo Storm Warning.

[@Coops-bc1go]

Great song but for top place it’d be a tough choice between ‘Detectives’ and ‘Pump it Up’ I’d say ..

[@peterbalac1915]

Let's just say they are all fkn brilliant 👌

[@matster777]

I was six years old ish when this came out and rmember singing it in my head on the way to school classic song thanks

[@lyndaoneill7813]

I think this is one of his all time best songs.Its 2024 and still loving it.

[@zoki-kj3ox]

"Every day I writte the book" is the best! 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@garethjamesdavies6850]

My husband & I loved this. I lost him in 2020 to cancer at 58 yrs old. Love you Gareth ,miss you Gar , always love you

[@pjhey947]

So sorry for your loss. Sending love 💕

[@brianmiller5265]

Hi Gareth, my condolences on your never ending loss. I lost me beloved Jacquelina in 2008 from cancer. She was 45. I haven't loved since. I love this son. Check out Peace Love And understanding. I love it. Those 2 songs are his triumphs and belong together. Good luck to you

[@sarareardon9527]

Sorry for your loss, I pray you have peace and comfort with you from our dear Lord Jesus Christ who is there for us all in the good times and bad times of our lives, much love and God bless you! Sara

[@garethjamesdavies6850]

Thank you so much Sara x

[@topquark6919]

So sorry to hear about your sad loss. I hope you are as well.

[@jasonkingshott2971]

This nerdy looking bloke became one of the coolest musicians overnight with great songs.

[@harryboyes2812]

You got that right :)

[@richardpressling1117]

One of the greatest singer song writers, a poet.

[@michaelcocchiara6989]

He made some great music.

[@jeanmichellelaurent]

He even sounds cool for someone who looks like a bit of a dweeb

[@walesforaunitedkingdom2556]

I am obsessed with Oliver’s Army, the melody is addictive and I’ve been listening to it for years, but I must confess that I don’t know any other Elvia Costello songs, what would someone recommend next?

[@hooch304]

Can’t believe Elvis has disowned his own song! Apart from being a brilliant song it was honest, poetic and loved by my generation. I had just finished a tour of duty in Ulster when it was released and could relate exactly to what he was saying about working class lads always being recruited to sort out someone else’s mess. I accept some of the lyrics would be viewed as not PC today, but I hope the trend of pulling down statues is not going to transfer to works of art, literature and poetry. I would urge Elvis to think again and remember he was only reflecting values that were held widely in the seventies and he has nothing to be ashamed of.

[@dominicheaney9242]

Agreed wholeheartedly. The ignorant, such as those who wish to cancel this extraordinary, well -informed, angry, masterpiece (seemingly in utter ignorance of the song's message) can't be appeased, and it is pointless trying.

[@jacklowe3037]

Exactly, people cancelling a song that speaks facts, and If you aren’t angry at this song or offended and you see the light hearted side and can acknowledge a piece of total art why can’t we all. Some people are just dumb. They don’t watch the vid or read all the lyrics just isolate the N-Word and call Elvis Costello a racist, which he’s not. The only crime Elvis committed in my eyes was being a genius and writing one of the great songs of the 70’s nothing wrong with that

[@dsmith4658]

Appeasement only breeds WEAK NESS

[@DecentralEyes]

Exactly. In fact black gang members et al actually refer to each other as “niger” to this day and get away with it!

[@dr.roberts4508]

Elvis in this snowflake, hashtag# me too millennials. He doesn't need the headache.

[@johnperks8620]

One of the best songs in the history of the world.

[@monsieurcommissaire1628]

Agreed.

[@linkplaysisbest]

Even though n word is in here, it is brilliant.

[@linkplaysisbest]

True, a good song is a good song.

[@stuartwebster4267]

You obviously have never listened to truly great music , catchy tune nothing more .

[@joejones9520]

for every music vid by anyone there is someone who proclaims something about it being the best ever in the world....

[@pfmmodule5144]

One of the few perfect songs in existence

[@gargenfluckgosphenspiels4849]

Would be perfect except use of n word.

[@branchtobranch5607]

I could not agree more!

[@mobiuspaw494]

69 and I'm still loving it...

[@FunkyRumpetroll]

Missionary and i'm still loving it...

[@richardmillican7733]

Tommy's Army!! London's still full of Arabs!!!

[@FredericChopin-ht5xm]

@@FunkyRumpetroll underrated ong

[@the_local_bigamist]

Who doesn't love a 69? Good for you, in seriousness. Must have been great experiencing this at the time.

[@lovetroublecat]

During sex!

[@345ma52]

This song is damn masterpiece

[@jaykaybee68]

Can you tell me why? What's it all about? I'd be interested.

[@the_local_bigamist]

@@jaykaybee68 Colonialism, war, sending working class people to die for the military industrial complex. Elvis Costello is a genius. "Oliver" refers to Oliver Cromwell who was a pillager and villain who used (working class?) poor people in his military conquests and is very much hated by many, especially in Ireland. The song is actually a good study guide if you wanted to learn about colonialism, imperialism, war and so on as the lyrics are still relevant today and will be for as long as the world is run by greedy psychopaths who engineer constant wars - not to win, but to profit. War is big business. Hope this was useful to you.

[@jamesalexander5623]

@@the_local_bigamist Well Said!

[@peterwhent66]

No fluff, no fancies gimmicks, just one of the greatest songs in British music. Written, played and sung by the band. Outstanding.

[@kingflappy4827]

oliver is my second name classmates would refer this song to me

[@slyestfox935]

@@ryanflanagan9624 stop bringing everyone down Ryan 🙏🤣

[@natureclips5849]

Sounds like Dancing Queen

[@driferdark4339]

And in under 3 minutes,just pure perfection!

[@SuperFerdie1965]

@@ryanflanagan9624 Fruitcake alert....

[@wynnmatthews1858]

Can hardly believe this song is 41 years old. Where has the time gone? Loved it then, love it today.

[@blackmichael75]

45 years old.

[@LucianaShadow]

A song about sending young working-class men off to die in foreign wars, that sounds like Abba. Brilliant.

[@ZnenTitan]

Good call. He meant it to sound like an ABBA song

[@bigboyedward]

not dis time

[@littlesprite123]

he was singing about mercenaries ! paid killers !

[@studio-flash]

Kate Bush also had her version called Army dreamers.

[@eckeynecker]

And status quo had in the Army now , and xtc had generals and majors , and Exploited had army life ,there might be a theme here .

[@wendideleoncampbell4174]

Where’s my comment????? He’s one of the greatest ever!!!!❤🎉🎉🎉🎉😊

[@144checkout]

There's something about this song. I utterly love it. Listened to it hundreds of times. Never tired of it.

[@MrDaiseymay]

It's like no other, and the piano is knock-out

[@Kthxlolu9046]

listen to this version

[@Kthxlolu9046]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXuymmNjosiSbNU

[@craftsandstuff3349]

Along with I Write the Book

[@apfelprincess45]

My favourite EC song, still listen to it regularly.

[@robertplumb9782]

Many that served in The British Army in The 1980s had a great feeling for this Song. Elvis Costello is a Genius Poet , Song writer and Singer .

[@ianburnley7786]

Bloody classic from 79

[@mattstone5789]

I was 12 going on 13 when this was number one. So many great songs from that year. I now have a grandson, a few months old, named Oliver. So I play this to him…

[@rachel.mcgowan]

What's sad is if this was released today it would have no chance of getting anywhere near #1 in the chart. It might not even make the top 40.

[@coonagh1]

The lyrics are so biting, so brilliant. And that piano. I loved this song in 1979 and still do so today in 2023.

[@joekopsick1540]

The piano bit was inspired by Dancing Queen.

[@tairschol6910]

@@joekopsick1540 Sure was. Total contrast in uses too. One song about the frivolity of youth and the other about the harshness of imperialism.

[@cjbolan8059]

I saw him perform it live on his Armed Forces tour in the SF Bay Area. Then 25 years later he played at the same theater, his second time there. I was surprised when he mentioned the earlier gig when chatting with the audience. Great show.

[@healgrowlovecommunity8397]

I was 19. St Thomas's Hospital student nurse. This was playing everywhere. I'm 63 now and still remember every word. Brings back such happy memories! Hi to any Nightingales out there!

[@steveakka]

Second post...The thing is why do we still love this song? Ok.. it's a great tempo..but in all honesty we know what he was saying..even though now he says he doesn't stand by it...he does...just under pressure to say that imo....

[@plane-crashes-aussie-stories]

I was 20. All the great music from "way back then" really does conjure up memories.

[@JupiterThunder]

I was 14. First saw it on Kenny Everett's Video Show....went out and bought the single the next day! Top tune.

[@marnanel]

​@@steveakkaDoes he say he doesn't stand by what the song was about? I thought he said he didn't stand by the way he said it.

[@gavinscott8903]

I'm hearing ya. I'm 62 & remember this song like the back of my hand. Such an underrated artist he is

[@richardjeffreys2437]

Do not fucking dare stop playing this..!

[@robertfish4052]

Again, another totally righteous tune!

[@larrybernard729]

Always loved your music, and your acting on 2 1/2 men thank you ❤

[@stephenowens3687]

Loved this song when I was 10 in 79. Taped it directly from the TV speaker on Top of the Pops.

[@jamesmiller6977]

As a former member of "Olivers Army" who left the British Army at exactly the same time as this record was released, I actually love this song. This is the label on the tin which we all signed up for, in order to escape the tedious existence of unemployment in the UK. In my "Brick" in Northern Ireland we had soldiers from every country in the UK (including NI) and I was proud that we ensured that nobody died in Armagh during our 3 month tour there in early 1978.

[@upthegills27]

Hi James - Well done - good man - Brilliant song and summed up what many of us did - I couldn't find a job, so took the 'Queen;s shilling. Did two tours - Andersonstown and out of the Docks, near Palace Barracks. Had a great time - strange thing to say I suppose. All the best.

[@susancooper8933]

Olive's army remains are relevant now as it was when written. The armed forces are dependent on recruiting kids from poor areas where there are precious few other options.

[@captainwin6333]

@@upthegills27 I guess everyone has a price but no politician is telling me who to shoot or bomb.

[@ryanflanagan9624]

@jayhuegan Jesus never fails us come to know Jesus as your Lord and Savior today amen For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son john 3:16-18 come to know Jesus today He died on the cross for our sins and rose again, so we can live with Him forever because He loves us, by His blood He has victory over sin, death and hell amen. God Jesus The Holy Spirit love you amen God bless amen :)

[@shedeen]

@jayhuegan Mainly from Scotland in fact.

[@leehowson440]

I was in hospital for 8 weeks in 1979 at age 9, this song was number one in the charts for 7 weeks. I'll never forget it

[@monikatrombly8383]

Would you rather have been anywhere else?

[@leehowson440]

@@monikatrombly8383 what, than here, today?

[@QUINT34577]

It reached no 2 in England where was it number one 1 for seven weeks.??

[@ebby2468]

I was born in 1979. I love this song. Always have. Top tune!!

[@MrDaiseymay]

Looks like you succeeded

[@branchtobranch5607]

I love this song! It is brilliantly written and states facts. Do not regret this song! It is brilliantly written! You are a genius and this song proves you are no idiot! Thank you for your stand against needless war. This message still reigns true. 😊♥️🇺🇸

[@peterchandler9014]

Did security for him in London hes a quality fella so down to earth

[@johnnyboyuk-uw2hx]

2025 jan still rocking , brilliant song

[@ronaldbretton3011]

Elvis Costello is a National Treasure.

[@waynenorthspacebuoy3529]

Agree ... great era .... I like to connect on my YT Channel doing Bowie covers ... sometimes my One Man Band versions get people laughing ... I have a collection of rotten fruit that they donate onstage so I know keep the car running at stage exit left.

[@StevenMitchell-r1m]

Oliver 's army are in Lithgow NSW Australia police waiting still🎉🎉❤❤🎉🎉🎉❤🎉🎉🎉❤❤🎉

[@CalifornianCuttlefish]

*This one of the greatest songs ever made*

[@MrDaiseymay]

and played

[@CalifornianCuttlefish]

@@MrDaiseymay indeed

[@TangoCharlieWhiskey96]

🧢

[@plane-crashes-aussie-stories]

I kind of feel for the younger generation. It's like the Lester Bangs character said in Almost Famous. "Rock and roll is dead. It's over. You missed it." Man, we were lucky to grow up with killer music.

[@grahamcheesman2252]

I think we were privileged to grow up with 70's and 80's. Unfortunately music declined from the early 90's and the last 20 years is awful

[@RosieHarp]

@@grahamcheesman2252totally agree. I count myself extremely lucky to have been in my 20's in the 80's. Saw this genius 3 times ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@grahamcheesman2252]

@@RosieHarp yes he was a genius along with so many in our time, only a few nowadays

[@RosieHarp]

@@grahamcheesman2252 I'm struggling to think of anyone musically.

[@grahamcheesman2252]

@@RosieHarp truthfully so am I which says exactly what we know, today's music is awful

[@ianburnley7786]

I got married in this year, and it was a very good year for British music.

[@Zymzam194]

Oh really? what year since 1959 was not a good year for British Music?

[@v-town1980]

Great song, and i love old lyrics that offend ppl now.😊

[@hambone5547]

We have our own Oliver's Army here in America. And we're here to stay.

[@Breyfart]

A true anthem!

[@XNTN808]

play the fucking song. fight the madness, man....we got your back...

[@jamesportrais3946]

Who wouldn't want to make their country great again?

[@xigbar1994]

One of the coolest motherf**kers ever to pick up a guitar. The Buddy Holly glasses, the suits, the mannerisms. Just oozed coolness. Absolutely love it

[@pauloconnor2980]

As Peter Crenshaw, from the Three Investigators, would say:” I’ll buy a double helping of that”

[@Sunset_City_Blues]

Yeah, he is pretty cool. I couldnt be that cool if I tried!

[@Battlady57]

Yes.always loved his look

[@fakeoldtoughguy768]

Totally ripped off by Millhouse

[@mmmmm4986]

Thank you i always think of him as buddy holly reborn

[@richardmansi9514]

Spot on Elvis Costello so far ahead of your time in many ways. Very relevant now 2024. Masterpiece

[@r4h4al]

Yes it is now very relevant.

[@Dermacrosis]

Hardly as it was of it's tome. After all he has felt the need to change the lyrics of the song as we have moved forward.

[@tripzville7569]

Looking back now from the age of 62 I can truly say it was a privilege growing up listening to quality bands like Elvis Costello and the attractions.

[@davidnorthdale1164]

Even worse, I am 64 !

[@BrunoCollins-gl1qm]

Best song of elvis costello

[@garygiacomelli]

I had never heard of Elvis Costello until this song hit the radio. I was in college and of an age to be in someone's army. This one spoke to me. I bought the album and have loved Elvis C, particularly with the Attractions, ever since. I am glad to still have Elvis as we grow old together!

[@johntindall6702]

I dedicated this to my late wife Glenys who loved this song miss you RIP

[@1989NickyD]

Brilliant songwriter Elvis.

[@johnc3352]

Genius!!!!

[@1989NickyD]

+Chalky Whyte That was written by Mark James so that *might* have been funny had it actually been written by the other Elvis :)

[@1989NickyD]

I didn't find it that funny tbh, kudos for trying though but, I wouldn't give up the day job :D

[@Hellwyck]

Your parties must be swinging, Nicky.

[@1989NickyD]

+Hellwyck How did you know I was a swinger?

[@Vangolovesart]

Should be on TV as a recruitment add for the British Army , look at the fun you have serving His Majesty overseas and they even pay you now ,

[@Josh_ThatsNotMyName_ItsHis1]

Classic song, classic voice.

[@john1968203]

Totally a classic ❤

[@stuarthartley7428]

Just fabulous. Most underrated artist ever imo. Outstanding.

[@tedriding]

Very talented guy ....very talented

[@chetster57]

This album came out 45 years ago (1-5-79) and it still sounds fresh. Terrific collection of songs!

[@TheSeafordian]

The real Elvis. This one has talent.

[@andrewmatthews6861]

EastOfBourne he's the one for sure 😎

[@notsureiL]

I never liked Elvis until I found the real Elvis 😊 Costello is a real artist.

[@kyawkyawwin1]

One of the best songs ever written.

[@robertdunkessr2303]

That term is thrown around like taylor Swift's Vagina, However, in this case, it holds Merritt.

[@sharonthorne5779]

Swifts Vagina, u sir are a comedy genius! pissed myself laughing at that. Thank you, thank you and once again I thank you.

[@lele19691]

Robert Dunkes SR...Come on now...😂

[@kyawkyawwin1]

@@robertdunkessr2303 Bold, very bold.

[@thewomble1509]

@@robertdunkessr2303 Merit.

[@andysalter4473]

Been listening to these guys for nearly 40 years!

[@AngelaHackettSpooky]

This is a terrific song by probably the most underrated songwriter of all time. Does ANYONE think this sounds like a song from 1979?! Classic but not dated. E.C. & co. are just brilliant!

[@Souplesse000]

+Persephone Hackett Don't really think he's underrated. Most critics consider him one of the greatest pop songwriters of his generation. He always ranks right up there.

[@apfelprincess45]

+Angela Hackett What does a song from 1979 sound like? A song of its time :)

[@Michal_Valoel]

+Angela Hackett It has that horrible sound of the 80's which I hate almost as much as hip hop and tecno - but in terms of lyrical writing he was great.

[@AngelaHackettSpooky]

+Michal Nielsen Not sure which horrible 80's sound you are referring to. I generally think of overdone synthesizer & cheesy guitar solos as elements of bad 80's music. Neither of which are present in this song. To each their own. He is an amazing lyricist, one of the best ever in my opinion. This song isn't exactly the peak of his writing abilities but still provides interesting commentary on the events of the time.

[@billtinsley2781]

+Angela Hackett I know what you mean about not sounding dated. I was listening to Alison a day or two ago and was shocked to see it was released almost 40 years ago.

[@dougferris5678]

Elvis Costello, The Best, I met him on the street in NYC, in 86, couldn't believe it. Great Artist, he talked to me for a good 10 minutes. What a Great Guy!

[@zepzepzep3046]

Costello's best song by far. Once of the best pop songs ever!

[@zepzepzep3046]

Sorry. One of the best pop songs ever.

[@CIMAmotor]

@@zepzepzep3046 Yep

[@debbieevans5447]

@@CIMAmotor agreed fantastic song

[@garyfowkes8794]

Agree a pop classic with great lyrics

[@mikalilypops3259]

So so sad 😢condolences to all who’ve lost loved 1s 🕊️🕊️💔rip

[@oddbod8655]

I bought this single out of my paper round money 41 years ago.I was chuffed then,played it to death All these decades later its just as good for me.I love it.😀

[@tildibu9087]

It was my brothers first record It's stood the test of time

[@andyt9008]

yaeh man, it was the second 7 inch single i bought. (first was 'Promises' - Bizzcocks) The Olivers Army single came in a picture sleeve - a close up of Costello's face ,doing his lip sneer thing.I Blu-tacked it to my bedroom wall, cos he was cool .. Great tune. Classic :)

[@oddbod8655]

@@andyt9008 I think 1979 is my most memorable year for music. Ska and Two Tone, my favourite still, Blondie Dreaming, Nick Lowe Cruel to be Kind, Eton Rifles The Jam.New Wave. Superb Andy. I

[@GoodFellowCol]

@@oddbod8655 Not only you ,I think it was one the best years ever so many great songs that people are still playing .

[@mkdy218]

Well spent money!

[@davidmccann9811]

The video was showing events that took place 40 years before (WW2), and we are watching the video 40 years after that. These were the days when I used to tape the charts from the radio using a cassette recorder. I miss them.

[@TaigaTurf]

Closer to the 30s than it is to 2024.. tempis fugit

[@bobsauve]

Loved this guy over 40 years. Master wordsmith!

[@oughtonoughton2634]

Bob i love your comment , i too have been in love with this genius guy since his beginning , however i saw him a few months ago ,, he let me down , he didnt sound too good , im sorry about that lol Jane x

[@StevenMitchell-r1m]

I'm not sleepwalking Elvis Costello,I'm ready 4 the next ICE maker sellers and users🎉🎉❤❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉

[@manu-tonyo9654]

A Classic. One of the greatest song writers ever.

[@jakethekipper]

I'm glad they kept 'that word' in.✌

[@robertasirgutz8800]

Me too. It's RIGHT, now.

[@GrislyAtoms12]

What, "Arabs"??

[@zegumazim6107]

I concur

[@wenesdae]

@@GrislyAtoms12 no and he says it in slang- Abs

[@GrislyAtoms12]

@@wenesdae Gotcha! I was joking - I know what word everyone is referring to.

[@robertplumb9782]

A truly Great Song by one of the Finest Song writers ever . I often thought of this song when in Army 🪖 Vehicles in the 1980 s never knowing what might or might not happen .

[@weatherman63uk]

I have managed to get a video of this series , I'm 61 now and remember it well

[@scottgray4761]

Could be one of the greatest songs ever written. Elvis Costello is a seriously talented artist

[@LoneLee2022]

Armed Forces is his best album.

[@thegreenbird795]

@Alex Martin Rubbish? What about white na ggers do you not like?

[@pjhey947]

@Alex Martin You’re rubbish! It’s a great song.

[@Haerinx87]

@Alex Martin If the song is rubbish.....why are you here? Goofy

[@paulberry6016]

Decudidly adanoidal voice has to be a matter of Taste, hkwever- didn't go down a sform in Nashville p0😊

[@johndonson1603]

I was 14 in 1979 and remember going in to town to buy this record with my best mate Steve. Its still up there as one of my favorite songs along with Accidents will happen. And 40 years later me Steve and Elvis are still best mates.

[@jennyjohnson7751]

I was born in August 65. This song had a lot of go in it. I was always so hyper and this got it out of my system whenever I would listen to it

[@crumplezone1]

Real mates are for life :)

[@koont666]

I got him to sign the accidents will happen (inside out sleeve) whilst he produced the specials first lp lucky me my mum had a second job above TW studios Fulham in the launderette top geezer and the specials where lovely I was 13

[@jameslebrocq123]

Thanks for the message

[@Link_Hyrule211]

15 year old me who found this on my dads playlist: ... This is genuinely good fr 💀💀🔥🔥🔥

[@22leggedsasquatch]

I wonder if Mr Costello actually realises how very, very few artists actually achieve an all-time classic that is as brilliant now as it was when new. My dog just loved watching me, at 55, jumping around the kitchen to it 😅 on repeat 😂

[@williamf.wallace9230]

No one has ever combined such happy music with such dark lyrics. A brief summary of the English treatment of the Irish

[@GrislyAtoms12]

"No one has ever combined such happy music with such dark lyrics." Um, "Maxwell's Silver Hammer" comes to mind. Or, should I say, comes down on one's head? IMO, Elvis C was influenced stylistically by MSH when writing this song.

[@rtaj247]

The first sentence is good. However I don’t think it’s just about how the English treated the Irish. For me it’s always been about the fact that it’s the poor who become the average squaddies in Britain … from places like the Mersey (Liverpool) and the Thames (working class London) and the Tyne (Newcastle). It’s these boys who swelled the ranks of the British Army, served overseas because they had few other career choices. Plus they’re expendable. If a squaddie died in 1980s Belfast it was just ‘one less white n*gger’. It’s ’Oliver’s Army’ because Cromwell’s New Model Army was really the beginning of the modern British Army.

[@dewahiweunmoatzn]

misfits@@GrislyAtoms12

[@jimjam7928]

This is one of those songs that you can loop endlessly and it doesn't get repetitive. Perfectly crafted pop with underlying intelligent lyrics about something other than love or getting drunk in a club. XD

[@doomcat.]

I played this on repeat for years, never get bored

[@samuelboundy7184]

100% I still sing this song to myself every SINGLE night! And wake up singing too this!!!!! xxxx This is an antiraciscisn personified!!!!! ❤❤❤❤

[@deanfordi2804]

@@ryanflanagan9624 shut up

[@donreed]

When I get looped, I repeat things endlessly. That's the difference between me and Elvis.

[@ryanflanagan9624]

@@donreed do you believe in afterlife?

[@scottleipski1015]

I would love to be as COOL as Elvis Costello.

[@jojo-pn7qh]

for real

[@LeeDixFreeman4]

Not with these statements

[@Anon1991]

My dad used to love this song. Brings back nostalgia

[@Chrisamusic1]

That 'Abba' piano though .... gorgeous.

[@jackwilkinson2254]

Steve Nieve the genius

[@LisaBusch]

I am so happy to hear this again! Thank you sir! ❤😊

[@ryanzlatniski1799]

This is one of my favorite songs ever written. It’s has so many political undertones while still maintaining a bubblegum jingle to it. It’s a catchy tune, that actually has something to say. Bravo Elvis Costello, you’re my inspiration as a writer.

[@sarareardon9527]

Mine too

[@bradcoulter1316]

Go elvis costello brilliant song oh yeah 😁👍

[@karenrobinson129]

Love this song,brings back wonderful memories.

[@londonbabe2467]

What a fabulous album. One of the best 😊❤

[@zoki-kj3ox]

Are you sure? 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@paulpolhill726]

Best song Ever 79 Great year I was 13 Went to Edge hill boys school Durning rd Liverpool Great song 🔵⚪️🇬🇧

[@rigobanuelos782]

My favorite Elvis Costello song. Beautiful music to my ears.

[@aaronjones6892]

Oh look, It's the son of the chap who wrote the R Whites song! Seriously, both are fond memories from my childhood, Thank you Elvis Costello

[@apollocreed1000]

Wow! I laughed out loud at that one!

[@karendegenerous600]

P A L E S T I N E!! Thanks Elvis XX.

[@tonyevans1350]

As fresh as when I first heard this album in 1980 absolute classic

[@franhurst3658]

Keep listening to this song….it’s part of me and my teenage years, please don’t erase these memories.

[@andymatthews7617]

Absolutely, we are being swamped by the pc and woke brigade, disgusting.

[@alfalpha3454]

The Agency is coming to erase your memories.

[@markanthonyharrison5153]

Working class hero with great lyrics. "Hong Kong is up for grabs" and "the boys from the Mersey, the Thames and the Tyne"...Nice one Declan

[@andrewmatthews6861]

Mark Anthony Harrison I wish we could all overrun the e u 👍

[@simonetherese4530]

Still as relevant in 2021 as it was in 1979. Brilliant.

[@andymatthews7617]

We need an army to see off covid once and for all 😊😊

[@grahamcheesman2252]

Simone you are beautiful 🌹

[@daryld4457]

Creep.

[@annejones9435]

Happy Birthday Elvis ❤

[@stephencurtis9400]

shed a tear when i read all the comments,so relieved that i was not on my own finding this song absolutely a significant turning point in my life,thanks Elvis.

[@linksauce_1]

Back when pop songs had clever lyrics...

[@RubyMarkLindMilly]

Probably never have clever lyrics again a golden era and time magic

[@slyslaughter5115]

When they were literate.

[@joshuakaufman6787]

Pop songs can have clever lyrics nowadays, but the format and use of these ideas is... different, to say the least.

[@pbaker7160]

Back when artists could actually write intelligent, coherent lyrics. Most people have no idea of the meaning behind Oliver's Army.

[@loki2240]

This song isn't representative of pop songs of that era. Most pop songs in every era don't have particularly clever lyrics. A lot of pop songs from every era are terrible, too. We just generally like more of them from the era in which we were young because we liked them at the time and they remind us of good times from our past. Also, we tend to not bother remembering the songs we don't like. All that said, I do think there's a difference between music in the past and music today, in that there were more grown adult music artists in the past who brought more complex experiences to especially grown adults in the audience. Today, I would bet that a smaller percentage of people are trying to make it in the music business at 30+ years old. The cost of living is higher, and record companies are looking to sign much younger people.

[@mamalama7204]

This song always brings back memories of me being frustrated when I was 12, I loved Elvis Costello but everybody, even my own friends, laughed at me for liking this music. I don't care, I feel blessed for having such terrific parents, raising me to the right kind of music :)

[@Halloweenowl]

+Mama Lama Some people can't understand liking quality music.

[@TainuiaKid1973]

Like you, I don't know anyone else who listens to Elvis Costello, but my dad introduced me to his music and I'm grateful he did!!

[@jodygirrl]

+Mama Lama I was 12 also, discovering Elvis Costello at that time. From that point on in my young head I was going to marry him lol. Every song of his throughout my difficult teen years spoke to me. While all my classmates were listening to disco or van halen I had my secret Elvis. Genius lyricist. So many facets to his music. All time favorite album of his was Imperial Bedroom.

[@rosscomeau7335]

Looks like you were one of the few mature enough to recognize authentic music. Wish more people did.

[@hunyakaning]

haha, i just said pretty much the exact same thing elsewhere. cheers bro

[@harryflavell3083]

Timeless anthem! No matter how many times I listen to it, it never gets old. Classic!

[@xBurko]

this song just doesnt get old

[@MrDaiseymay]

nor do the lyrics---sadly

[@meshell4993]

These lyrics are more truer than ever!!!😌😌😌😌

[@waynenorthspacebuoy3529]

Agree ... great era .... I like to connect on my YT Channel doing Bowie covers ... sometimes my One Man Band versions get people laughing ... I have a collection of rotten fruit that they donate onstage so I know keep the car running at stage exit left.

[@kstew830]

Elvis Costello was BIG on my college campus in the 80s. I even saw him in concert at the Mann theatre in Philadelphia. All this time I’m “singing” along to this song and I didn’t even know the lyrics. And I’m Black! Intent is what’s most important to me and this song will remain on my playlist along with Zeppelin, Billy Holiday and Curtis Mayfield….

[@pallmall5495]

I can honestly say I had never heard or heard of this song until today.It gets some bad publicity from its writer of all people,and I somehow see a news feed about the song.So that's why I am here.Good song though,and I agree,his intentions were not at all meant to be hateful.

[@graemewalters4518]

He was singing about the British army in Northern Ireland, after visiting Belfast and seeing young British soldiers on street corners with machine guns. 'Oliver's Army' are what the British army are called that(mainly in Ireland) because of the devastation Oliver Cromwell wreaked in the religious wars of the 1640s. He paid particular attention to Ireland and it's Catholic population! Hence the line in the song 'all it takes is an itchy trigger, one more widow...one less white n####r!' (Irish Catholic). He's now decided to retire the song and not play it again, down to that one 'controversial' line🙄. Sad really, cos imo it's not said to offend...it was considered a fact by many during 'The Troubles' in N. Ireland. And Elvis Costello, although born in Liverpool, England, comes from Irish, Catholic stock originally...