Paul Kelly

Lyrics

[Verse 1: Paul Kelly]
Every day, the sun comes up
Like the day before
Every day, I fill my cup
Stand up straight and walk through the door
Every day, my mother's voice
Talks to me
Every day, I make my choice
What to do and how to be

[Verse 2: Dan Sultan]
And every day, I build my life
On her sacrifice
And every day, I face my strife
But I know where to go for advice
Ooh, many roads I could've walked down
Many, many ways to disappear
And every day, I hear the sound
Of her voice right by my ear
So clear, so clear

[Chorus 1: Both]
She taught me to be strong
Well, I guess I got lucky
Now I've got a dance and I've got a song
They can't take that away from me
[Chorus 2: Both, Dan Sultan]
Every day, every day
Every day, I hear my mother's voice

[Verse 3: Paul Kelly & Dan Sultan]
Every night, the stars come up
Like the night before
And every night, I drain my cup
Lay me down and close the door

[Instrumental Break]

[Chorus 2: Dan Sultan, Paul Kelly, Both]
Every day, I hear my mother's voice
Every day, I hear my mother's voice
Every day
Every day, I hear my mother's voice
I hear my mother's voice
Every day, I hear my mother's voice
Every day, I hear my mother's voice
Every day, I hear my mother's voice
Every dayEmbed

Paul Kelly's "Every Day My Mother's Voice" is a powerful and poignant song that was written for the Australian documentary "The Final Quarter" in 2019. The song sheds light on the public ostracisation of Adam Goodes, a prominent Sydney Swans player, following his criticism of the racism and oppression faced by Indigenous Australians. Goodes, an exceptional player in the AFL, won numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious Brownlow Medal and Best & Fairest Awards.

One of Goodes' most significant achievements was being named Australian of the Year in 2014, a testament to his impact both on and off the field. His acceptance speech during the awards ceremony brought attention to the historical suffering and injustices endured by Indigenous Australians since the arrival of English settlers in 1788. Goodes urged all Australians to take responsibility for their actions and to speak out against racism, hoping to foster a more inclusive and understanding society.

Unfortunately, in the years that followed, Goodes faced escalating prejudice and discriminatory attacks from the public, as well as biased media coverage. The song explores the motivation behind the mistreatment he endured, including instances of being booed during matches. The AFL faced harsh criticism for their failure to support Goodes during this tumultuous period, leading to a public apology issued by the organization in 2019 for their mishandling of the events. This controversy shed a glaring spotlight on the manifestations of racism in modern Australia.

Ultimately, Goodes decided to retire from the game at the end of the 2015 season and has since distanced himself from the industry, declining invitations, such as his nomination into the AFL Hall of Fame in 2021. The impact of these experiences on Goodes' life and career are encapsulated in "Every Day My Mother's Voice," a song that delves into the strength and inspiration he drew from his mother, Lisa Sansbury.

About Every Day My Mother’s Voice

"Every Day My Mother's Voice," penned by Paul Kelly and featuring Dan Sultan, was specifically created for the documentary "The Final Quarter." Directed by Ian Darling, the film highlighted the remarkable story of Adam Goodes and the challenges he faced as a result of his public stand against racism.

Paul Kelly, although not Indigenous himself, has been a longstanding ally and advocate for Indigenous Australians. His dedication to promoting Indigenous rights is seen through his collaboration with Dan Sultan, an Indigenous artist and prominent activist. Together, they imbue the song with deep emotional resonance and authenticity.

"Every Day My Mother's Voice" shifts the focus from Goodes himself to his mother, Lisa Sansbury, highlighting her integral role in his life and the unwavering support she provided. The song beautifully captures the strength, love, and resilience passed down from mother to son, emphasizing the power of familial bonds in overcoming adversity.

With richly crafted lyrics and soul-stirring melodies, "Every Day My Mother's Voice" serves as a tribute to the extraordinary influence that mothers have on their children. It underscores the impact of Lisa Sansbury's voice on Goodes' journey, reminding listeners of the importance of love, encouragement, and standing up for what is right.

As the song brings to light the complexities of racism and its devastating effects, it also encourages introspection and prompts conversations about inclusivity, equality, and the power of collective action. Through the heartfelt collaboration of Paul Kelly and Dan Sultan, "Every Day My Mother's Voice" resonates deeply with audiences, impelling them to reflect on the experiences of Indigenous Australians and the role they can play in creating a more just society.

In essence, "Every Day My Mother's Voice" transcends its origins as a soundtrack for a documentary, becoming an anthem of resilience, strength, and unity. It serves as a testament to the enduring impact of a mother's voice and the profound influence it can have in overcoming adversity and advocating for justice.

• Release Date: May 3, 2019
• Artist: Paul Kelly