The song contains a highly controversial racial slur in the second verse: "Only takes one itchy trigger / One more widow, one less [slur]."
Refers to Oliver Cromwell , the 17th-century English leader who led a brutal conquest of Ireland. Elvis Costello & The Attractions - Oliver's Army
Released in , "Oliver's Army" is the most successful single of Elvis Costello's career . It reached number 2 on the UK Singles Chart and remains a staple of new wave and power pop history. 🎵 Musical Composition The song contains a highly controversial racial slur
It transformed Costello from a "pub rock" figure into a mainstream pop star. ⚠️ Controversy 🎵 Musical Composition It transformed Costello from a
Mentions "Checkpoints," "Hong Kong," and "Palestine" to show the reach of British imperialism.
The British military was heavily present in Northern Ireland.
The song was written during a period of high unemployment and social unrest in the UK. 1978 (recorded), 1979 (released).