1976
Nothing is known of his life before August, 1976, when he walks into offices of Stiff Records (within days of label's inception) and is signed without hesitation.
1977
Three singles "Less Than Zero," "Alison" and "The Angels Want To Wear My Red Shoes," prime audiences for his first album, My Aim Is True, which reaches number 14 and hangs around chart for twelve weeks.
First gig (completely solo, supporting the Rumour at the Nashville, London, on Friday, 27th May) goes all but unnoticed. Three months later, at the same venue, pandemonium spreads after doors are locked on estimated 700 plus still queueing for access.
In June, selected musicians are drawn together to form The Attractions: Pete Thomas (drums), Bruce Thomas (bass) and Steve Naive (keyboards).
Elvis and Attractions spend much of July, August and September on introductory UK tour before joining Ian Dury, Wreckless Eric, Larry Wallis and Nick Lowe on seminal "Stiffs Live Stiffs" package, which tours Britain during October and November.
A fourth single, "Watching the Detectives," rises to number 15.
First American tour during November and December pushes My Aim Is True into US top 50. Album also charts in most major foreign markets.
1978
Completes second American tour (30 dates nationwide), late January to early March.
Signs with Radar Records in UK and presents them with hit single "I Don't Want To Go To Chelsea," which reaches number 16.
Second album, This Year's Model, bursts into chart at number 4 and hangs in top 50 for over four months.
Tours Britain (mid March to mid April) then returns to US for third tour (36 dates between mid April to early June) with Nick Lowe and Mink DeVille.
Sixth single, "Pump It Up" reaches number 24. This Year's Model, meanwhile, steams into American top-30.
Headlines "Rock Against Racism" concert at Brixton, September 24, before estimated audience of 60,000.
Seventh single "Radio, Radio" cruises into top 20. Leaves Britain for comprehensive tours of Canada, Hawaii, Japan and Australia, early November to mid December.
1979
Releases third album Armed Forces. Embarks on 31-date British tour, December 27 to January 31, supported by Richard Hell and the Voidoids and John Cooper-Clarke.
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