Paul Kelly Releases Landmark Album Ahead of Melbourne Show
Paul Kelly marks a milestone year with his new album Seventy, released today. The album serves as both a reflection on a well-lived life and a continuation of Kelly’s fearless exploration of what it means to be human.
Key Tracks and Themes
Seventy features the memorable single “Rita Wrote a Letter,” a follow-up to Kelly’s 1996 classic “How to Make Gravy.” This song tells Rita’s side of the story, presenting her “loud and clear” while Joe continues to speak from beyond the grave.
“I’ve been mulling over the idea of a sequel to ‘How to Make Gravy’ from Rita’s point of view for quite some time,” Kelly said. “About five years ago I wrote down the words, ‘Rita wrote a letter,’ and thought, ‘There’s my title.’”
The lyrics showcase Kelly’s trademark wit and depth:
- “Rita wrote a letter / One you don’t want to get from your wife”
- “When Rita writes a letter / The pen is sharper than the knife.”
New Single and Music Video
The album also includes the single “Happy Birthday, Ada Mae,” accompanied by a tender music video released today. Directed by Kelly’s daughter, Maddy Kelly, the video features his granddaughter, two-year-old Ada Mae, creating a poignant meditation on love and legacy.
“In the end, love is all of us that remains,” Kelly reflects. “It’s a joy working with my daughter and granddaughter. Three generations in one little song.”
Kelly’s latest work continues his storytelling tradition while involving his family, underscoring themes of love and connection across generations.
Author’s summary: Paul Kelly’s new album Seventy highlights his reflective storytelling and family collaboration, blending personal history with timeless themes of love and legacy.