Paul Kelly, the veteran Australian singer-songwriter, turns seventy, marking the occasion with a new album titled Seventy. The record features around a dozen fresh songs reflecting this milestone. Marty Duda from The 13th Floor spoke with Paul about the importance of this age and his outlook on the future.
Marty: "The album is Seventy, you are 70, and believe it or not, I’m 70 too. So I’m even more curious to hear about your thoughts of… ’cause it seems to be a major thing, doesn’t it?"
Paul shares his perspective:
"I’ve never been one to pay attention to how old I am, but suddenly it’s the way people treat you. I remember three big birthdays clearly. Forty felt like a major milestone, like, okay, now I’m an adult. It was also when people I grew up with or worked closely with began to pass away. That happens quite a bit in the music business because many of us die young. That was a very different time — some of us keep living, and some of us don’t."
Paul reflects on the changing perspective that comes with age and the realities of life in the music industry, where loss can often feel close. The album Seventy encapsulates these themes through its songs.
Marty: "It feels like a big birthday and a turning point."
Paul acknowledges the significance of this milestone while looking ahead.
Paul Kelly marks his 70th birthday with an album that thoughtfully reflects on aging, loss, and the enduring spirit of life and music.
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