Elvis Costello to host Channel 4 music show

by Ben Bold, Brand Republic 02-Apr-08, 16:00

LONDON - Elvis Costello and Elton John are collaborating on a 13-part TV series featuring talk and music with influential music stars, which will air on Channel 4 later this year and involve donations to the Red campaign.

'Spectacle: Elvis Costello with...' is being produced by John's Rocket Pictures and is being executive produced by John, his civil partner David Furnish and Costello.

The series' producers have formed a partnership with the Red campaign to raise awareness of and money for the Global Fund, which helps combat Aids in Africa. Some of the series' content will be distributed via various media and a portion of the profits will be donated to the fund.

The series will air later this year on Channel 4 in the UK, CTV in Canada and Sundance Channel in North America. FremantleMedia Enterprises will handle sales of the show to the rest of the world.

The programme has been devised as a forum for in-depth discussion and performance. Its content will range from interviews with iconic music stars and new acts to panel discussions involving performances and collaborations, including original interpretations of other musicians' songs by Costello.

Costello said: "I'm not interested in extracting some dark secret. I'd rather hear about a bright secret, a deep love or a curiosity that might be otherwise obscured by fame. This is a wonderful opportunity to talk in complete thoughts about music, movies, art or even vaudeville, then frame it with unique and illustrative performances."

Costello has previous experience hosting a TV show, including a stint as a guest host on 'The Late Show' with David Letterman.

Executive producer Sir Elton John said: "Elvis Costello is the foremost expert on popular music. I thought it would be sensational to use his knowledge and intelligence to explore the artistry of musicians and other fascinating people involved in making great music, as well as true music aficionados."