For Australian music icon and national treasure Paul Kelly, it’s a milestone and time of celebration on all fronts. He’s still riding high from his recently released album Seventy and just finished his first-ever headline arena tour. Now 70, Kelly has lost none of his youthful vibrancy, still engaging listeners with his wee small hours narratives and melodic flair.
This ambitious album— first released on EMI —is a landmark for Kelly, depicting her growth and maturation. It is an homage to his influences as well, including John Lennon, Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen. He referred to the legends as his cardinal compass in his life. Their impact, in turn, both realized and potential, has deeply influenced his practice. The new project features a blend of introspective lyrics and poignant melodies, reaffirming Kelly’s status in the Australian music scene.
Kelly’s recent arena tour marked an exciting chapter in his career, allowing him to connect with fans on a larger scale than ever before. Celebrating nearly four decades as a recording artist, this tour proved he’s just as popular today as a live performer as he was then.
One of the most memorable cuts from Seventy is “Rita Wrote a Letter,” a deeply clever, funny track that channels Kelly’s sharp lyrical humor. Fans of his previous works will hear some familiar favorites like “How to Make Gravy” and “To Her Door.” Both tracks turn to the story of Joe, union man, a mainstay in Kelly’s stories.
In his decades-long career, Paul Kelly has played alongside music legends such as Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen. Taken together, these experiences have left an indelible mark on his artistic vision. Callum recalls a favourite performance one time in Amsterdam that really took his breath away. It served to remind audiences how unforeseen live performances truly are.
It seems that not all his performances have been critically lauded as one might think. It wasn’t until 1988, when she faced the hardest test of her life at the ill-fated performance at Mittagong RSL Club. He remembers that experience today with equal parts humor and humility. It was moments like these that have forged his determination to succeed in the music business.
Along with all this looking back, Kelly appreciates the spirited discussions he has with longtime guitarist Ash Naylor. “I enjoy getting into fights with Ash,” he said, highlighting the fierce collaborative creative energy they maintain. As a result of these conversations, we’re always able to dive deeper into their music and creativity.
Paul Kelly’s appreciation for music transcends genres. He cites Duke Ellington’s “Black and Tan Fantasy” as one of his favorites and surprises fans by admitting a fondness for Foreigner’s “I Want to Know What Love Is.” It’s eclectic taste, to be sure, an indication of the myriad influences that shape his work and his vision.
For as much as he has accomplished, Kelly takes a down-to-earth approach to life and showbiz. He remembers advice from his grandmother: “If you’re nervous before a show, just breathe deeply.” This new-found composure wisdom is a great reminder about staying cool in the chaotic pressure cooker of live entertainment!
Paul Kelly is a national treasure in Australian music. He’s never stopped taking stock of his professional and personal accomplishments, which makes his impact all the more deep. His journey is characterized by an incredible ingenuity, a tenacious spirit, and an unbreakable commitment to his art.