From St Kilda to Kings Cross, on a hill overlooking the MCG and across the outback, no songwriter has captured life in Australia quite like Paul Kelly. Now at 70 years old, the national treasure is releasing his 30th studio album.
The new album is aptly titled 70. Kelly said he has never been happier or performed better. He reflected on reaching this age, noting it requires a measure of luck.
“You've got to live that long. Everything else after that is, you know, gravy,” he said.
Despite decades of success, Kelly continues to write and perform passionately. He often gathers lyrics from phrases he overhears or reads.
“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,” Kelly explained.
For example, the line “I've done all the dumb things” came from a conversation at the Corner Hotel in Richmond.
Paul Kelly's album 70 will be available starting tomorrow.
Summary: Celebrating his 70th birthday, Paul Kelly releases his 30th album, reflecting on life, luck, and his ongoing passion for songwriting inspired by everyday moments.