Nearly 30 years after releasing his iconic Christmas anthem 'How To Make Gravy', Paul Kelly has written a sequel titled 'Rita Wrote A Letter'. The original song, which tells the story of an incarcerated man named Joe writing to his brother Dan, has become a cult classic, inspiring a film, a music festival, and countless covers. Kelly describes the sequel as a 'black comedy' that continues the narrative from Rita's perspective.
In the new track, it is revealed that Joe's worst fear—Dan making a move on his wife Rita—has come true. The lyrics include Rita's letter confessing her love for Dan and announcing a new baby on the way. Musically, the song features a jaunty vintage piano line originally written by Kelly's nephew, Dan Kelly.
A recent funeral notice in a Melbourne newspaper announced Joe's death 'by sudden misadventure', referencing his love of reggae, cooking, and the line 'Who's gonna make the gravy?'. The song confirms Joe's untimely passing but treats it with impish humour, complemented by upbeat music. Kelly explains he likes songs where the music and lyrics are at odds, providing a balance.
The music video for 'Rita Wrote A Letter' features Australian actor Justine Clarke as an older Rita, while Kelly plays Joe haunting her home. The song ends with Joe wishing Rita well but refusing to forgive Dan, with lyrical callbacks to the original track. Kelly hints at the possibility of a prequel to explore what led to Joe's imprisonment.
'Rita Wrote A Letter' heralds Kelly's new album 'Seventy', set for release on November 7, following his 70th birthday in January. The album, described as his most varied yet, features a cover portrait by photographer Dean Podmore and draws from varied literary influences.
