It's difficult to imagine an alternative-rock landscape without Elvis Costello's guiding influence; artists as varied as No Doubt, Lambchop and Radiohead have cited him as an inspiration. His legendarily sharp lyrics, whether witheringly witty or candidly revealing, have been a beacon for several generations of singer/songwriters, including Billy Bragg, Liz Phair, Ben Lee, Tori Amos and dozens of others.