Elvis Costello Reveals He Was Almost Stephen Colbert’s Late Show Bandleader

Elvis Costello, the renowned musician, appeared on Stephen Colbert's Late Show multiple times over the years, including the series finale last May. However, he did not stay long as the bandleader for the show. During a recent podcast episode of Rolling Stone Music Now, hosted by Brian Hiatt, Costello revealed that he once submitted himself as a candidate for the bandleader position.

Costello recalled asking Colbert for his advice on the role and joking that he was the right person for it. Colbert apparently took Costello seriously and asked for Costello's input. Costello's interest in the role was sparked by the success of The Roots, a band he collaborated with on the 2013 album Wise Up Ghost. The Roots found stability and success as Jimmy Fallon's band on Late Night and The Tonight Show, and Costello believed a similar arrangement could benefit him and his band.

However, he ultimately decided against pursuing the job due to the logistical challenges it would pose for his bandmates, as only he lived in New York. The Colbert bandleader position was eventually filled by Jon Batiste, who held the role for seven years before stepping down in 2022. Louis Cato took over as leader for the final four years of the show.

Costello and Colbert performed the song "Jump Up" on the Late Show finale, joined by Batiste and Cato, a nod to Costello's brief consideration for the bandleader gig.