The Meaning Behind The Song: Lipstick Vogue by Elvis Costello

As a fan of Elvis Costello, I have always been intrigued by the depth and complexity of his music. One song that has resonated with me is “Lipstick Vogue” from his album “This Year’s Model” released in 1978. This song combines catchy melodies with thought-provoking lyrics, and today, I want to delve into the meaning behind this iconic track.

Table of Contents

Verse 1

The song opens with the lines: “Don’t say you love me when it’s just a rumor / Don’t say a word if there is any doubt.” Here, Costello addresses the concept of love being uncertain and unreliable. He compares love to a tumor that needs to be cut out if it turns out to be false. The lyrics convey a sense of cynicism and skepticism towards love, questioning the authenticity of relationships.

The next lines, “You say you’re sorry for the things that you have done / You say you’re sorry but you know you don’t mean it,” reveal a theme of insincerity and apology. Costello emphasizes that empty apologies hold no weight and cannot erase the hurt caused. Despite this, he adds, “Sometimes, I almost feel just like a human being,” hinting at moments of vulnerability and longing for genuine connection.

Chorus

The chorus of “Lipstick Vogue” is a powerful repetition of the lines, “It’s you / Not just another mouth in the lipstick vogue.” Here, Costello challenges the idea of superficiality and believes that there is something special about the person he is addressing. He asserts that this individual is not just another “mouth” or voice conforming to societal expectations but rather possesses a unique identity worth recognizing and cherishing.

Verse 2

In the second verse, Costello introduces the metaphor of a “slot machine” and a “live wire.” These phrases suggest unpredictability and danger. He implies that the person he is singing about lives on the edge, exposed to thrilling experiences that can both exhilarate and harm. The line “You say I’ve got no feelings, this is a good way to kill them” indicates a response to perceived emotional detachment, hinting at a desire to protect oneself from vulnerability.

Verse 3 and Outro

The third verse continues with a metaphorical reference to control and tokens, emphasizing a struggle for agency and autonomy. Costello declares that despite attempts to discard him, he remains unbroken. He asserts that there are certain words society prohibits, suggesting the existence of silenced truths and taboo topics.

The song concludes with the repeated phrase, “Not just another mouth lost in the lipstick vogue.” Elvis Costello emphasizes that this person, whose identity and individuality he celebrates, should not be forgotten or categorized as just another conforming voice.

Elvis Costello’s Reflections

In the liner notes for “Girls Girls Girls,” a compilation album, Costello shared that the inspiration for “Lipstick Vogue” came from the collision of rhythms between the Metropolitan line and The Byrds’ song “I See You.” This revelation adds another layer to the song, showcasing Costello’s ability to draw influence from various sources and create unique compositions.

The album “This Year’s Model” received critical acclaim for its innovative sound and insightful lyrics, solidifying Elvis Costello’s place in the punk and new wave genre. “Lipstick Vogue” stands as a prime example of his lyrical prowess and ability to address universal themes of love, authenticity, and societal expectations.

Next time you listen to “Lipstick Vogue,” take a moment to appreciate the profound meaning behind the catchy melodies. Costello’s introspective lyrics remind us of the complexities of love and the importance of recognizing individuality in a world that often thrives on conformity.

Credits

Written By: Elvis Costello

Engineered By: Roger Bechirian

Additional Information

Album Title: This Year’s Model (1978)

Recorded At: Eden Studios (London, England)

Release Date: March 17, 1978

Performed Live As: Lipstick Vogue [live, Hollywood High School 1978] by Elvis Costello