Paul Kelly Releases Landmark Album Ahead of Melbourne Show

Paul Kelly marks a milestone in his career with the release of his new album Seventy. Out today, the album reflects on a life fully lived while continuing Kelly’s fearless exploration of humanity.

Highlights from Seventy

The album includes the memorable single “Rita Wrote a Letter,” a follow-up to Kelly’s 1996 classic “How to Make Gravy.” This time, the story unfolds from Rita’s perspective, with Joe still speaking from beyond the grave.
On the track, Kelly said,
“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. About five years ago I wrote down the words, ‘Rita wrote a letter,’ and thought, ‘There’s my title.’”
The song’s lyrics showcase Kelly’s signature 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.”
Another notable track, “Happy Birthday, Ada Mae,” features a tender music video directed by Kelly’s daughter, Maddy Kelly. The clip stars his two-year-old granddaughter Ada Mae, capturing a heartfelt meditation on love and legacy.

Reflections on Love and Family

Kelly reflects on the album’s themes, saying,

“In the end, love is all of us that remains.”

He emphasizes the joy of collaborating across generations:

“It’s a joy working with my daughter and granddaughter. Three generations in one little song.”

This release offers listeners a profound and personal glimpse into Kelly’s creative journey and enduring family bonds.

Author’s summary: Paul Kelly’s new album Seventy showcases his reflective songwriting and family collaborations, continuing his exploration of life, love, and legacy through deeply personal storytelling.

Rolling Stone Australia — 2025-11-07