Paul Kelly marks milestone age with new album
From St Kilda to Kings Cross, from the hill overlooking the MCG to the vast outback, few songwriters have portrayed Australian life as vividly as Paul Kelly. Now, at 70, the national icon celebrates his milestone with the release of his 30th studio album.
A lifetime in song
The new record, aptly titled 70, reflects both Kelly’s journey and enduring passion for music. The singer-songwriter says he has never felt more fulfilled or performed with greater confidence.
“You’ve got to live that long. Everything else after that is, you know, gravy.”
For Kelly, merely reaching 70 feels like an achievement in itself — one that came with time, luck, and dedication to craft. Yet, his creative fire continues to burn, with new lyrics still flowing from everyday inspiration.
Inspiration in everyday words
Kelly describes his songwriting process as one of collecting phrases and moments that resonate. When a line or thought strikes him, whether from a book, a poem, or a conversation, he saves it for later use.
“If I read something, I think 'that's a good line', or a line of poetry or something from a book, or just general conversation that's got a good ring to it, I'll write it down,” he said.
One of his most memorable lines came from an overheard remark in a Richmond pub near the Corner Hotel — proof that great songs often start in unlikely places.
Release details
Paul Kelly’s new album 70 will be available for listeners starting tomorrow.
Author’s summary: Paul Kelly turns 70 and marks the occasion with his 30th studio album, blending decades of Australian storytelling with fresh inspiration from everyday life.