Paul Kelly Releases Landmark Album Ahead of Melbourne Show
Paul Kelly marks a significant milestone with his new album Seventy, released today. The album is both a reflection on a richly lived life and a continuation of Kelly’s fearless exploration of human experience.
Highlight Singles and Themes
Seventy includes the standout single Rita Wrote a Letter, continuing the story from Kelly’s 1996 classic How to Make Gravy. This time, Rita’s voice is “loud and clear,” while Joe still communicates 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 explained. “About five years ago I wrote down the words, ‘Rita wrote a letter,’ and thought, ‘There’s my title.’”
The lyrics carry Kelly’s signature blend of wit and emotional 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 features the single Happy Birthday, Ada Mae accompanied by a tender music video released simultaneously. Directed by Kelly’s daughter, Maddy Kelly, the video stars his granddaughter, two-year-old Ada Mae, offering a heartfelt meditation on love and legacy.
“In the end, love is all of us that remains,” Kelly reflects on the song’s message. “It’s a joy working with my daughter and granddaughter. Three generations in one little song.”
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Author’s summary: Paul Kelly’s album Seventy thoughtfully explores life, family, and love, blending storytelling and generational ties in a poignant musical journey.