Elvis Costello with...

I'm looking forward to the following Elvis Costello series as he's one of my favourite songwriters and I'm sure he'll be engaging and selective with is guests... I haven't been a fan of Elton John's latest music (though I like his early stuff with Bernie Taupin), but he Sir Elton is right about his statement that Elvis knows his popular music... Original CTV article here.

Elvis Costello, Elton John collaborate in music show

Updated Wed. Apr. 2 2008 9:25 AM ET

The Canadian Press

TORONTO -- Renowned British musicians Elvis Costello and Elton John are collaborating for a new show airing on CTV that was conceived and developed in Canada.

"Spectacle: Elvis Costello With ...'' will be hosted by its namesake and is executive-produced by Elton John's company, Rocket Pictures. The series aims to raise money and awareness about AIDS in Africa.

The 13-part series, a Canada-U.K. co-production, will feature performances and in-depth discussions between Costello and some of the world's most influential artists and personalities.

"I'm not interested in extracting some dark secret,'' Costello said in a news release Wednesday.

"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.''

Elton John described Costello as "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.''

The series, which will likely debut in the fall on CTV, will also be broadcast on the Sundance Channel in the U.S. and Channel 4 in the U.K.

The series is co-produced by Toronto's Reinvention Entertainment, SpyBox Pictures and Prospero Pictures, along with the London-based Rocket Pictures.