Paul Kelly

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
From St Kilda to Kings Cross
Is thirteen hours on a bus
I pressed my face against the glass
And watched the white lines rushing past
And all around me felt like all inside me
And my body left me
And my soul went running

[Verse 2]
Have you ever seen Kings Cross
When the rain is falling soft?
I came in on the evening bus
From Oxford Street, I cut across
And if the rain don't fall too hard
Everything shines just like a postcard
Everything goes on just the same

[Bridge]
Fair-weather friends are the hungriest friends
I keep my mouth well shut, I cross their open hands

[Verse 3]
I want to see the sun go down
From St Kilda Esplanade
Where the beach needs reconstruction
Where the palm trees have it hard
I'd give you all of Sydney Harbour
All that land, and all that water
For that one sweet promenade
I'd give you all of Sydney Harbour
All that land, and all that water
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From St. Kilda to Kings Cross" is a highly regarded song by Australian singer-songwriter Paul Kelly. It was written in late 1984 during a tumultuous period in Kelly's life and holds significant meaning for both the artist and his fans. This poignant and heartfelt song showcases Kelly's talent for storytelling and his ability to capture raw human emotions through his lyrics and music.

About From St. Kilda to Kings Cross

In the late 1980s, Paul Kelly found himself at a crossroads in his life. After the breakup of his band and his marriage, he made the decision to leave Melbourne and start anew in Sydney. It was during this time of upheaval that he found inspiration for "From St. Kilda to Kings Cross." Kelly wrote the song on Don Walker's piano, who was a keyboardist and songwriter for the renowned Australian rock band Cold Chisel. The connection between the two artists came through Kelly's ex-wife's sister, and this meeting proved to be a pivotal moment in Kelly's career.

With the backdrop of Walker's flat in Kings Cross, an area known for its vibrant and often gritty atmosphere, Kelly poured his heart and soul into composing the song. Drawing on his own experiences of leaving behind his previous life in St. Kilda, a suburb of Melbourne, and embarking on a new journey to find himself in Kings Cross, Kelly managed to capture the essence of this significant transition in his lyrics.

"From St. Kilda to Kings Cross" is not only a personal reflection for Kelly, but it also delves into broader themes of longing, change, and the search for meaning. The song's haunting melody, coupled with Kelly's emotive vocals, creates a mesmerizing atmosphere that draws the listener into his world. The lyrics paint vivid imagery of a solitary figure driving through dark streets, grappling with inner demons and seeking solace in a new environment.

One fascinating aspect of the song's creation is that Kelly initially took inspiration from "From Memphis to Norfolk Is a 36-hour Ride" by the legendary blues musician Robert Johnson. Kelly's blues variation on Johnson's song adds a layer of depth and history, paying homage to an artist who influenced generations of musicians, including Kelly himself.

From a musical standpoint, "From St. Kilda to Kings Cross" is a testament to Kelly's talent as a songwriter and musician. The composition seamlessly blends elements of folk, rock, and blues, showcasing Kelly's versatility and ability to create a unique sonic landscape. The song's simplicity and stripped-down arrangement allow the lyrics to take center stage and convey the raw emotions that Kelly pours into every line.

Over the years, "From St. Kilda to Kings Cross" has become an iconic song in the Australian music scene, resonating with audiences both within the country and abroad. It has been covered by numerous artists, further cementing its place as a beloved piece of music that transcends generations. Its enduring popularity speaks to the universal themes it explores and the timeless quality of Kelly's songwriting.

In sum, "From St. Kilda to Kings Cross" is a deeply personal and introspective song that showcases Paul Kelly's skill as a songwriter and storyteller. It serves as a testament to the power of music to convey emotions, connect with audiences on a profound level, and provide solace during challenging times. Its timeless appeal and universal themes continue to captivate listeners, making it an esteemed masterpiece in the realm of Australian music.

• Release Date: April 1985
• Artist: Paul Kelly