Paul Kelly Releases Landmark Album Ahead of Melbourne Show
Paul Kelly celebrates a milestone year with the release of his new album Seventy. The record, out today, captures both a reflection on a life deeply lived and Kelly’s ongoing exploration of what it means to be human.
Rita’s Story Continues
The standout track “Rita Wrote a Letter” continues the narrative from Kelly’s 1996 classic “How to Make Gravy.” This time, the story unfolds through Rita’s voice, while Joe still speaks 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 shared. “About five years ago I wrote down the words ‘Rita wrote a letter’ and thought, ‘There’s my title.’”
The song carries Kelly’s trademark wit and emotional weight as Rita’s words strike with honesty and sharpness.
Family, Legacy, and Love
Another fresh single, “Happy Birthday, Ada Mae,” is paired with a tender video directed by Kelly’s daughter, Maddy Kelly. The clip lovingly features his two-year-old granddaughter, Ada Mae, reflecting themes of affection and generational continuity.
“In the end, love is all of us that remains,” Kelly noted. “It’s a joy working with my daughter and granddaughter — three generations in one little song.”
With Seventy, Kelly reaffirms his place as a storyteller whose art blends memory, family, and humanity into a single, harmonious voice.
Author’s Summary
Paul Kelly’s Seventy offers heartfelt reflections on life and love, weaving together generations and stories with the warmth and wisdom that define his music.