Name: APRA AMCOS
Address: Australia
Price range: $

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.

Pre-order Now

“ Twenty of our sharpest minds have been asked to explore the songs that have shaped Australian culture over the past hundred years – not to create definitive lists, but to celebrate songwriting as the important cultural force it truly is. What do our songs tell us about who we are? How do they move us? "
— Jenny Morris MNZM OAM, Chair of APRA

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.

“ Australian music is the river I return to when my cup needs filling. This book celebrates a most prolific and powerful time in Australian songwriting with the artists and songs that have given shape to our lives. "
— Justine Clarke

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 unveils the rich tapestry of composition and songwriting in Australia. It is testament to the astounding diversity of our songlines – both ancient and modern. Songs that have become time capsules – distilling a moment in history, and iconic anthems that have that shaped our collective identity and become a catalyst for cultural awareness and social transformation. "
— Nigel Westlake