Elvis Costello Calls for Change: Replacing 'Empire' with 'Excellence' in OBE Awards
Elvis Costello has recently expressed his opinion on the use of the word "empire" in OBE awards, suggesting that it should be replaced with "excellence." The musician, who received the OBE in 2019, criticized the inclusion of the word "empire" in the honours list, calling it "unforgivable." Costello shared his experience attending the ceremony at Buckingham Palace, where he discussed Sinn Fein and reflected on his father's musical legacy.
Costello's father, Ross MacManus, was a well-known musician who performed with Joe Loss and gained fame for singing in R. White's Lemonade adverts. Costello described his visit to Buckingham Palace as a mix of curiosity and skepticism, noting the emotional impact the ceremony had on attendees. Despite his initial cynicism, Costello acknowledged the significance of the award to individuals in various fields such as education and charity.
Reflecting on his nomination for the OBE by former Prime Minister Theresa May, Costello humorously remarked that it confirmed his suspicion that people do not pay close attention to song lyrics. He accepted the award in memory of his grandfathers, who served in the British Army during World War II, and at the urging of his mother. Costello's performance at the Royal Variety Performance in honor of his late father highlighted his personal connection to the event.
Costello's stance on British honours aligns with other musicians who have declined such awards in the past. Notable figures like John Lennon, George Harrison, and David Bowie have rejected British honours for various reasons, including political protest and personal beliefs. Costello's call to replace "empire" with "excellence" in OBE awards reflects his desire for a more inclusive and modern approach to recognizing achievements.
In conclusion, Elvis Costello's perspective on the use of the word "empire" in OBE awards sheds light on the evolving attitudes towards traditional honours. His personal experience at Buckingham Palace and reflections on his family's history underscore the complex relationship individuals may have with such accolades. Costello's suggestion to rename the OBE to "excellence" reflects a broader conversation about the relevance and symbolism of these distinctions in contemporary society.