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About The Book

An honest and candid memoir from one of Australia’s most phenomenal voices. A story of determination, humility and self-discovery.

Top 10, Booktopia’s FAB Award


All Anthony Callea wanted was to sing. From his first memories of singing for his family, Anthony knew that he wanted to share his voice with the world. He had a strongly held dream but was as surprised as anyone when his breakout moment (his heart-stopping rendition of ‘The Prayer’ on Australian Idol) turned him into a household name overnight.

Now, in his own words, Anthony shares the joys and challenges of becoming celebrated for his voice, all while navigating the twists and turns of life. It’s a story of a kid from the working-class western suburbs of Melbourne with a big dream and an even bigger voice, who had to finish growing up in the spotlight.

Anthony’s 20-year career has spanned stage, arena, and screen, and he now invites you backstage to share his journey. One day you are working at a suburban shopping centre as a Freddo Frog mascot, the next you are topping charts, winning awards and sharing stages with Celine Dion, Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston.

These candid, courageous and, at times, very amusing anecdotes take us beyond the slick facade of showbiz, to the hard work, blood, sweat, and tears that it takes to become one of Australia’s most enduring and beloved entertainers.

About The Author

Photograph by Samuel Bisso

ARIA Award winner Anthony Callea is one of Australia’s finest and most recognised singers. From one of Australia’s most memorable TV performances on Australian Idol in 2004 came his #1 debut single. ‘The Prayer’ became Australia’s fastest and highest selling single of all time and Anthony continued with a string of multi-platinum and chart-topping releases.

Anthony headlines his own national tours regularly but has also had the privilege of touring with Celine Dion, Diana Ross, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Westlife. To add to this list of honors, Anthony has also performed by special invitation for Luciano Pavarotti, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh, and Prince Frederik and Princess Mary of Denmark.

The powerhouse vocalist released his much-anticipated 8th studio album Forty Love in 2022, marking his 40th birthday year.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Simon & Schuster Australia (April 5, 2023)
  • Length: 304 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781761109294

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