Paul Kelly Thrives As Australia's Iconic Storyteller on 'Seventy'
"I wouldn't really be that much good in someone else's band," says Kelly. "I'm a pretty basic guitar player, very basic piano player, but I've got a knack for making up melodies."
Paul Kelly (Credit: Dean Podmore) has had a remarkable year. In recent years, the celebrated musician completed his largest tour to date, performing in arenas across Australia. He also released a follow-up to one of the country's most cherished songs, earned two ARIA Award nominations for his 2024 album Fever Longing Still, and now has released his new album, Seventy.
Speaking with The Music, Kelly admits that some rest may soon be necessary.
"I'm looking forward to – around next May or June – taking a bit of a break," he says. "It's been a busy time; a couple of records in the last two years and a big tour. And now we've got the Red Hot Summer Tour coming up. But that was sort of always the plan, just to get these records out, do a lot of shows, and then take a break for a while."
If anyone in the Australian music scene deserves rest, it is Kelly. Seventy is his 30th studio album over 44 years, and after nearly five decades of performing worldwide, fans can understand why he might pace the release of new music.
Summary
Paul Kelly continues to solidify his status as an iconic Australian musician with his 30th studio album, embracing rest after decades of touring and creative output.