ANTHONY CALLEA Using my VOICE

THE AUSSIE SINGER IS BACK TO SHARE HIS STORY, IN HIS OWN WORDS

- Jodie Wolf

He’s sold over 175,000 albums since he skyrocketed to fame on Australian Idol in 2004. These days Anthony Callea, 40, is happily married to actor and singer Tim Campbell, 47, having tied the knot in New Zealand back in 2014. “It’s a really beautiful relationship,” the star said of their 15 years.

Here, ‘The Prayer’ singer opens up to WHO about finally finding happiness and why his newly released memoir, Behind The Voice: Dietro La Voce, was a “psychology session which didn’t end for quite a while”.

When did you say, “I need to write this”?

Two years ago. I’d gotten to the point in my life where I’d really like to document my life in words. Usually I do it musically, but this time around I felt as though I needed to talk about some stuff. 

Was it therapeutic?

There were moments that I would go out to my balcony and have a cry with a packet of cigarettes because it’s confronting. There are things in this book I’d forgotten about in order to move forward. It’s definitely been cathartic. 

Who’s been your guiding light?

Liana, my singing teacher, who came into my life when I was 5. I wouldn’t be the person or singer I am without her guidance. When I look back at my life, she was there – a constant support, no judgement ever. She took me under her wings, one of those free-spirited people. She taught me a lot of life lessons. 

Was your journey destined?

I can’t do anything else really well. If I really want to do something, and it’s going to make me happy, I’ll do anything I can to make that happen. I don’t like complacency.