Girls Talk (Elvis Costello song)
"Girls Talk" is a song written by Elvis Costello and originally released by Dave Edmunds in 1979. Costello's own version, featuring the Attractions, was released as the B-side to his single "New Amsterdam" in 1980 and subsequently included on numerous compilation albums.
The song is a fast-paced, guitar-driven new wave/power pop track. Its lyrics explore themes of gossip, rumour, and the potentially destructive nature of conversations, particularly those focusing on the lives and relationships of others. The phrase "Girls Talk" is used to represent this pervasive, often unreliable, flow of information.
While Edmunds' version is considered a more polished, studio-produced interpretation, Costello's version offers a raw, energetic performance. The song's appeal lies in its catchy melody, cynical lyrics, and Costello's distinctive vocal delivery. "Girls Talk" has become a popular and enduring part of Costello's extensive catalog.