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By Esther Anatolitis
100 Years of Australian Songwriting is a landmark anthology exploring how songs have shaped Australia’s identity, culture, and history over the past century. With a foreword by music luminary Jenny Morris, the book showcases 20 essays by leading Australian writers, critics and artists, tapping into the transformative power of songwriting as a cultural force.
From First Nations songlines to modern pop, the essays address themes of national identity, protest and activism, live music, feminism, digital disruption, and the global reach of Australian music. Each chapter highlights well-known songs and lyrics, inviting readers to rediscover them from new perspectives while connecting to curated audio streaming playlists that will accompany the book.
This anthology celebrates the stories behind the music that has defined Australia, from iconic anthems like ‘I Am Woman’ and ‘Up There Cazaly’, to the forgotten soundtracks, protest songs and jingles that have left a cultural imprint. With contributions from an array of voices – including First Nations knowledge holders, artists, academics and cultural commentators – the book reflects Australia’s diversity and the deep cultural significance of our songwriting.
100 Years of Australian Songwriting is a celebration of the art form that tells the Australian story like no other.
Esther Anatolitis is one of Australia’s most influential advocates for arts and culture. With two decades in creative and media leadership across all artforms, she is a highly respected champion of artists’ voices. A prolific writer, commentator and broadcaster, Esther is Hon A/Prof at RMIT School of Art, a member of the National Gallery of Australia Governing Council, and Co-Chair of the Australian Republic Movement.
Nicholas Pickard is one of Australia’s leading cultural and creative industry policy experts and advocates. He is currently Executive Director, Public Affairs and Government Relations at APRA AMCOS. Prior to this he was the Director Corporate Affairs for Copyright Agency. A former arts journalist, critic and cultural policy adviser, Nicholas is the outgoing Chair of the Australian Society of Authors and a board member of the NSW Government's multi-artform advisory board and music festivals roundtable. He is a Fellow of The Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce.
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