Elvis Costello and Diana Krall Share the Secret to Their Enduring Marriage: ‘Two Pianos, One Love’
For over two decades, Elvis Costello and Diana Krall have been one of music’s most celebrated couples, blending their distinct artistic styles with a love story that has stood the test of time. In a rare and heartfelt interview, the legendary rocker and the jazz virtuoso opened up about the foundation of their marriage, revealing that their secret lies not in grand gestures or extravagant vacations but in something much simpler and more personal: playing music together.
A Love Story Built on Music
When Costello, known for his sharp lyrics and genre-defying sound, met Krall, a jazz pianist with a voice as smooth as silk, the connection was instantaneous. Though their musical backgrounds were different, they found a unique harmony in both their relationship and creative lives. From the very beginning, their conversations often revolved around music—swapping records, discussing compositions, and occasionally sitting at the piano together to improvise melodies.
“We realized early on that music wasn’t just something we did for a living; it was also how we communicated,” Costello explained. “Some couples have date nights, some write each other love notes—we play music.”
Morning Serenades and Late-Night Jams
Unlike many high-profile couples who struggle to balance work and personal life, Costello and Krall have managed to merge the two seamlessly. One of their longstanding traditions is starting their mornings with music. Instead of reaching for their phones or jumping straight into the day’s obligations, they sit at their twin pianos and play.
“Sometimes it’s something structured, like a jazz standard or an old blues song,” Krall shared. “Other times, it’s just us fooling around, playing whatever comes to mind. It’s about connection, not perfection.”
Even after years together, they continue to surprise each other musically. Costello admits that Krall’s improvisational skills often leave him in awe, while Krall finds herself inspired by her husband’s lyrical depth.
“Every time we play together, I learn something new about him,” Krall said with a smile. “And I think that’s one of the reasons our relationship has never felt stagnant—because we’re always discovering new layers of each other through music.”
Keeping Romance Alive Through Creativity
Another key to their lasting marriage is their shared commitment to creativity. Both artists lead demanding careers, often touring or working on separate projects, yet they make it a point to collaborate whenever possible.
“We don’t just support each other’s work—we actively engage with it,” Costello noted. “I’ll sit in on her sessions, and she’ll offer thoughts on my lyrics. It keeps us creatively connected, even when we’re physically apart.”
Beyond music, they’ve cultivated an environment of artistic freedom and respect. Rather than feeling competitive, they see each other as partners in creativity.
“She’s my greatest inspiration, and I hope I’m the same for her,” Costello said. “When you admire your partner not just as a person but as an artist, it deepens the bond you share.”
Unplugging for Love
Despite their busy schedules, Costello and Krall prioritize quality time together. One of their most cherished rituals is what they call “No Screens Sundays,” a day when they disconnect from technology and focus entirely on each other.
“We live in a world where it’s so easy to be distracted,” Krall said. “So we decided that one day a week, we’d step away from emails, social media, and all the noise and just be present with each other.”
These unplugged days often involve cooking meals together, taking long walks, or simply sitting at their pianos, letting music fill the space.
Music as a Love Language
For Costello and Krall, music is more than a career—it’s the foundation of their relationship. It’s how they express love, work through challenges, and celebrate life’s joys. While many couples rely on words to communicate, they often turn to melodies and harmonies.
“When I miss him on the road, I don’t just text him—I send him a little recording of a tune I wrote that morning,” Krall revealed. “And he does the same for me. It’s our version of love letters.”
Costello nodded in agreement, adding, “Music is our love language. It’s what brought us together, and it’s what keeps us strong.”
As they continue their journey together, Costello and Krall remain proof that love and music, when intertwined, create something truly timeless.