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Behind the Voice
An honest and candid memoir from one of Australia’s most phenomenal voices. A story of determination, humility and self-discovery.
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.
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.
304 pages, Paperback
First published April 5, 2023
17 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Anthony Callea
11 books15 followersARIA 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 24, 2023
Read for book club 📖
He loves his exclamation points‼️ and to use an ellipsis ... and to go off on tangents and jump around his life timeline.
Parts of the story I was hooked by and wanted more detail in were glossed over or ended abruptly, and other parts I felt went into too much detail and became almost pitying of others and sharing private details in what should belong in someone else's memoir, not his own (like the pages and pages talking about Whitney).
For a book that mentions tall poppy syndrome in Australia a few times (a real problem), I was surprised at how often Anthony seemed to name drop people just because, serving no real purpose to the story of ita structure... to me, it felt less like a memoir and more like a brag of who he knows.
He loves his exclamation points‼️ and to use an ellipsis ... and to go off on tangents and jump around his life timeline.
Parts of the story I was hooked by and wanted more detail in were glossed over or ended abruptly, and other parts I felt went into too much detail and became almost pitying of others and sharing private details in what should belong in someone else's memoir, not his own (like the pages and pages talking about Whitney).
For a book that mentions tall poppy syndrome in Australia a few times (a real problem), I was surprised at how often Anthony seemed to name drop people just because, serving no real purpose to the story of ita structure... to me, it felt less like a memoir and more like a brag of who he knows.
April 20, 2023
Book review:
Behind the voice: Anthony Callea
Well what can I say!?
Anthony is an Australian Singer for all you international bookish friends who may not know (seriously look him up!)
As a young 6 year old I would sit by the tv watching Australian Idol just to watch him. I remember being at my Nonna’s house for the grand final and was getting frustrated because everyone was talking so loud, so I snuck into my Zia’s room, turned the tv up and held my Anthony Callea Tv week banner close. Short story, he came second and to say I cried would be an understatement. I was a wreck.
Anthony’s life was not always an easy one and being so young (but even now) I had no idea of the struggles he has been through. He makes you laugh, cry and also hits a personal note for me when he talks about his nonna, mine lived a similar life, said an did similar things.
Back in 2019 I went to Anthony’s concert when he came to my little home town and I’m super excited to be taking my mum and my two Zie in October!
Your story @anthonycallea is truly inspiring and I’m so glad you never gave up on your dreams. You have such an amazing voice and I’m so happy you found Love in Tim. Thank you for keeping my mum and I entertained during Covid with all the lockdowns. We didn’t have as many being out in the country but we still felt the struggle and those videos helped.
See you in October!
Behind the voice: Anthony Callea
Well what can I say!?
Anthony is an Australian Singer for all you international bookish friends who may not know (seriously look him up!)
As a young 6 year old I would sit by the tv watching Australian Idol just to watch him. I remember being at my Nonna’s house for the grand final and was getting frustrated because everyone was talking so loud, so I snuck into my Zia’s room, turned the tv up and held my Anthony Callea Tv week banner close. Short story, he came second and to say I cried would be an understatement. I was a wreck.
Anthony’s life was not always an easy one and being so young (but even now) I had no idea of the struggles he has been through. He makes you laugh, cry and also hits a personal note for me when he talks about his nonna, mine lived a similar life, said an did similar things.
Back in 2019 I went to Anthony’s concert when he came to my little home town and I’m super excited to be taking my mum and my two Zie in October!
Your story @anthonycallea is truly inspiring and I’m so glad you never gave up on your dreams. You have such an amazing voice and I’m so happy you found Love in Tim. Thank you for keeping my mum and I entertained during Covid with all the lockdowns. We didn’t have as many being out in the country but we still felt the struggle and those videos helped.
See you in October!
April 16, 2023
My mid-2000s self made me listen to this immediately upon release and also order a hard copy....and she was not disappointed. Anthony tells his story with humour and heart, and I loved every minute of it.
November 17, 2023
Enjoyed this book,
March 12, 2025
Listen, was this the best written book of all time? No. But will I defend Anthony Callea more than is ever necessary? Absolutely.
May 29, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this memoir
April 8, 2023
Lovely read
Laughs, tears and getting to realise that it has not been a wholly fun ride to get where Anthony has arrived. Well done, an enjoyable and educational read
Laughs, tears and getting to realise that it has not been a wholly fun ride to get where Anthony has arrived. Well done, an enjoyable and educational read
April 15, 2023
I listened to the audio book. I write this review from a place of total bias. I am a huge fan of Anthony and have been since Idol. I will soon be seeing him live at Crown for the fifth time. I loved hearing his stories, the behind the scene moments of the Australian music industry, and stories of other stars us Aussies know well. This isn't a book where he dishes out salacious gossip other stars. He tells fun stories and is very respectful. I loved it. Now I'm off to listen to him sing.
April 22, 2025
”I am proud to say that I am a very different person today than to that broken twenty one year old. At forty, I’m happily married and feel so fortunate to have experienced what I have in the past twenty years. The thought that I could’ve never had those years and not only robbed my own life, but destroyed so many lives around me, is beyond eerie. I would not wish that moment of darkness upon anyone”.
✨3.25 stars✨
⚠️TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE YOU READ THIS BOOK/REVIEW: attempted suicide, depression, anxiety, death threat, homophobia⚠️
Prior to reading this, whenever I heard/saw the name ‘Anthony Callea’, I’m immediately transported back to my 15 year old self discovering ‘Live For Love’ for the first time and loving it.
Unfortunately, it didn’t inspire me to look further into him, but that is one fond memory I hold quite dear to my heart.
It wasn’t until I saw this book in a Big W clearance section that I thought back to that memory and was intrigued to find out more about him.
When I saw that the audiobook was available on Audible’s monthly sale catalogue for April, it felt like the right time to pick this up.
Starting with some positives:
The number one thing that I found important when it came to speaking about some of the topics he discussed, Callea included a content warning and some important resources for people to reach out to right before the first chapter.
In most autobiographies/memoirs, you see the author mainly put them towards the end of the book, after the last chapter.
While it’s a good thing that some are adding these resources, I find it to be quite counterproductive when a author or celebrity writes about different traumatic times they’ve been through and the reader feels the same trauma (whether they’ve been through the same thing or are empathetic) but doesn’t know who to reach out to until they get to the end of the book.
I loved reading about his childhood, family background, and his humble beginnings prior to going onto Australian Idol .
Callea also spoke quite candidly on his struggle with his sexuality and his journey throughout the music industry.
After reading about some of the stuff Callea went through in the mid 2000’s, such as almost being outed on live TV and eventually being outed by a live traffic reporter, I’m glad that the majority of the world has changed their attitude towards people in the LGBTQ+ community.
Now onto the negatives:
While Callea has a beautiful singing voice, the audiobook narration left little to be desired. The narration sounded like he was reading off a script at some points (which is funny because technically he is 😂) with little/no emotion. It felt quite jagged and clunky from the words I was reading from the physical copy while also listening to the audiobook.
Some of the content he wrote about also left little to be desired. Callea would write about certain topics/people and he would write either “more on that later” or say that he couldn’t talk about specific things that he had brought up.
At around the 65% mark, the writing style seemed to go downhill.
The way Callea was writing about certain stories felt quite immature and juvenile.
Also, the name dropping was rife throughout the book. Thinking back on what I’ve read, it’s funny how Callea mentions his experiences with big celebrities such as Celine Dion and Whitney Houston but barely scratches the surface with the celebs he’s friends with in Australia, such as Brendan Fevola.
Overall, I somewhat enjoyed reading this.
This isn’t against Anthony, I’m sure he is a wonderful guy and I would definitely love to have a drink or two with him (not that I’d get the chance 🤣). But this book felt a little lacklustre ✨🌻
✨3.25 stars✨
⚠️TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE YOU READ THIS BOOK/REVIEW: attempted suicide, depression, anxiety, death threat, homophobia⚠️
Prior to reading this, whenever I heard/saw the name ‘Anthony Callea’, I’m immediately transported back to my 15 year old self discovering ‘Live For Love’ for the first time and loving it.
Unfortunately, it didn’t inspire me to look further into him, but that is one fond memory I hold quite dear to my heart.
It wasn’t until I saw this book in a Big W clearance section that I thought back to that memory and was intrigued to find out more about him.
When I saw that the audiobook was available on Audible’s monthly sale catalogue for April, it felt like the right time to pick this up.
Starting with some positives:
The number one thing that I found important when it came to speaking about some of the topics he discussed, Callea included a content warning and some important resources for people to reach out to right before the first chapter.
In most autobiographies/memoirs, you see the author mainly put them towards the end of the book, after the last chapter.
While it’s a good thing that some are adding these resources, I find it to be quite counterproductive when a author or celebrity writes about different traumatic times they’ve been through and the reader feels the same trauma (whether they’ve been through the same thing or are empathetic) but doesn’t know who to reach out to until they get to the end of the book.
I loved reading about his childhood, family background, and his humble beginnings prior to going onto Australian Idol .
Callea also spoke quite candidly on his struggle with his sexuality and his journey throughout the music industry.
After reading about some of the stuff Callea went through in the mid 2000’s, such as almost being outed on live TV and eventually being outed by a live traffic reporter, I’m glad that the majority of the world has changed their attitude towards people in the LGBTQ+ community.
Now onto the negatives:
While Callea has a beautiful singing voice, the audiobook narration left little to be desired. The narration sounded like he was reading off a script at some points (which is funny because technically he is 😂) with little/no emotion. It felt quite jagged and clunky from the words I was reading from the physical copy while also listening to the audiobook.
Some of the content he wrote about also left little to be desired. Callea would write about certain topics/people and he would write either “more on that later” or say that he couldn’t talk about specific things that he had brought up.
At around the 65% mark, the writing style seemed to go downhill.
The way Callea was writing about certain stories felt quite immature and juvenile.
Also, the name dropping was rife throughout the book. Thinking back on what I’ve read, it’s funny how Callea mentions his experiences with big celebrities such as Celine Dion and Whitney Houston but barely scratches the surface with the celebs he’s friends with in Australia, such as Brendan Fevola.
Overall, I somewhat enjoyed reading this.
This isn’t against Anthony, I’m sure he is a wonderful guy and I would definitely love to have a drink or two with him (not that I’d get the chance 🤣). But this book felt a little lacklustre ✨🌻
April 28, 2023
Wow! Behind the voice is definitely not what I was expecting! I’ve seen Anthony Callea performing live numerous times over the decades and I was expecting a bit of drivel if I’m honest. This bloke “appears” to have a lot of confidence and can talk and tell a few stories about himself!!! 🤣 This autobiography however, shows a personal and vulnerable side away from the media spotlight. His humour continues to shine through.
The man behind the voice is selfless, family-oriented humble and had a very traumatized childhood, growing up as a gay, Italian “catholic” in the social media spotlight during a period of Australian history that was far from supportive of the LGBQT+ community and same sex marriages were not legal at the time. The journey wasn’t easy for the poor bloke and this book follows that very difficult journey- trying to be true to himself but also trying to sell records and “maintain a certain image” to keep sweet with his record company. All while keeping the secret from his family, who (spoiler alert) loved him just the way he is!
Although many chapters are sporadic and jump to “tangents” (if I didn’t know better, I would also think Anthony has undiagnosed ADHD?) This book is worth a read. It will give you a different insight to the man behind the voice and a newfound respect for a boy who grew into a man and just wanted to be a singer and perform for the crowds but couldn’t be himself because he was “different” . All that changed when he finally “came out” but unfortunately it wasn’t on his terms.
I really enjoyed reading this book more than I thought I would. I highly rate it and commend Anthony on sharing his personal journey and struggles with us. It could not have been easy to write and re-live some of the traumatic mental health lows of his career and life. Thank you for speaking for those you are too scared to “come out of the closet” and showing everyone the value of the hard-work, luck and persistence. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The man behind the voice is selfless, family-oriented humble and had a very traumatized childhood, growing up as a gay, Italian “catholic” in the social media spotlight during a period of Australian history that was far from supportive of the LGBQT+ community and same sex marriages were not legal at the time. The journey wasn’t easy for the poor bloke and this book follows that very difficult journey- trying to be true to himself but also trying to sell records and “maintain a certain image” to keep sweet with his record company. All while keeping the secret from his family, who (spoiler alert) loved him just the way he is!
Although many chapters are sporadic and jump to “tangents” (if I didn’t know better, I would also think Anthony has undiagnosed ADHD?) This book is worth a read. It will give you a different insight to the man behind the voice and a newfound respect for a boy who grew into a man and just wanted to be a singer and perform for the crowds but couldn’t be himself because he was “different” . All that changed when he finally “came out” but unfortunately it wasn’t on his terms.
I really enjoyed reading this book more than I thought I would. I highly rate it and commend Anthony on sharing his personal journey and struggles with us. It could not have been easy to write and re-live some of the traumatic mental health lows of his career and life. Thank you for speaking for those you are too scared to “come out of the closet” and showing everyone the value of the hard-work, luck and persistence. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 28, 2023
I always love listening to Anthony Callea, but knew little of his life story until I read this book. As with many performers, his "overnight" stardom took a lot more time and determination.
I hope for continued success and happiness for him in both his professional and personal life.
An honest and candid memoir from one of Australia’s most phenomenal voices. A story of determination, humility and self-discovery.
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.
I hope for continued success and happiness for him in both his professional and personal life.
An honest and candid memoir from one of Australia’s most phenomenal voices. A story of determination, humility and self-discovery.
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.
April 23, 2023
ARGUABLY THE BEST BOOK I HAVE READ THIS YEAR! YOU KNOW THOSE MOMENTS WHEN YOU READ SOMETHING AND NOTHING (INCLUDING TIME) ELSE MATTERS? THAT'S IT. THIS BOOK. THANK YOU ANTHONY FOR RELEASING THIS BOOK RAWNESS, REALNESS AND ALL!
PREMISE: In this memoir, Anthony Callea details moments throughout his life. Sharing in each and every detail that is his to tell. From the low-lights prior to idol to the highlights of Idol and everything good, bad and ugly that has occured since all the way up until his latest album release 40-Love.
THOUGHTS: This book was pure gold for me! I've always loved reading memoirs and I think that's because I am particularly specific when it comes to the memoirs I choose to read. I only ever read memoirs of those I actually have a deep interest in wanting to learn more about. What sets "Behind The Voice" a part from many other memoirs I've read is just how raw and real it is. Anthony, while admittedly nervous to publish this book, doesn't shy away from delving into this darkest moments of his life, whilst also joyous celebrating every moment, lesson and experience! My only wish was that this book was longer as Im sad that it's done now and I have no more left to read. I hope Anthony (as others like Lauren Graham did) comes out with a second memoir. Maybe of things we don't know yet (things he wasn't able to discuss in this one for the sake of keeping the book a managable length). Praise to Anthony Callea. What a great guy and a fantastic read!
5 Stars!
xoxo.
PREMISE: In this memoir, Anthony Callea details moments throughout his life. Sharing in each and every detail that is his to tell. From the low-lights prior to idol to the highlights of Idol and everything good, bad and ugly that has occured since all the way up until his latest album release 40-Love.
THOUGHTS: This book was pure gold for me! I've always loved reading memoirs and I think that's because I am particularly specific when it comes to the memoirs I choose to read. I only ever read memoirs of those I actually have a deep interest in wanting to learn more about. What sets "Behind The Voice" a part from many other memoirs I've read is just how raw and real it is. Anthony, while admittedly nervous to publish this book, doesn't shy away from delving into this darkest moments of his life, whilst also joyous celebrating every moment, lesson and experience! My only wish was that this book was longer as Im sad that it's done now and I have no more left to read. I hope Anthony (as others like Lauren Graham did) comes out with a second memoir. Maybe of things we don't know yet (things he wasn't able to discuss in this one for the sake of keeping the book a managable length). Praise to Anthony Callea. What a great guy and a fantastic read!
5 Stars!
xoxo.
April 6, 2023
I read this book in 3 days. 3 working days! I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Especially when Anthony talked about his life before Australian Idol. Anthony wrote a very down to earth book and his humour shone through. The 'Italian' aspect for Anthony growing up in Australia was very interesting and the true 'soul' of his family unit is special. His journey is an insight into the extreme hard work and dedication which goes into building a successful career. The isolation, challenges and dedication. People in the entertainment industry certainly sacrifice a great deal. I really value my privacy and it must be tough to have your privacy invaded by media and the public on a constant basis. I was born in Australia but have not resided there for many years. I was aware of the older performers Anthony speaks of but many names he mentions, I do not know. I am sure those living in Australia will identify more, especially with the newer artists included in the book. I do hope I can see him perform one day. I now have even more respect for Anthony as an artist and human being having read this fine book. Well done!
November 8, 2023
Audiobook.
I loved Anthony back in my youth, THAT idol performance was amazing. I had high hopes for this book.
I was keen to listen to his book and learn more about his life and career, in his voice (self read on audible). It got off to a good start and in my head was 5 stars. I could forgive the awkward tone and put it down to him being a singer, not writer.
However, as it went on I enjoyed it less and less. The last 1.5-2 hours was so hard to listen to. It really felt like he was just showing his ego by name dropping and sharing inappropriate stories and hinting at things but using the old "I can't talk about it". If you can't talk about it then don't bother starting the story! I didn't feel the drama added anything positive to his book. It would have been interesting to hear less "famous friends" stories but some with more depth to the friendships and how the person affected his life/career/personal growth perhaps.
I still like him as an entertainer and would have a glass of the finest champers with him given the chance (and that says a lot, I don't really like wine/bubbles).
I loved Anthony back in my youth, THAT idol performance was amazing. I had high hopes for this book.
I was keen to listen to his book and learn more about his life and career, in his voice (self read on audible). It got off to a good start and in my head was 5 stars. I could forgive the awkward tone and put it down to him being a singer, not writer.
However, as it went on I enjoyed it less and less. The last 1.5-2 hours was so hard to listen to. It really felt like he was just showing his ego by name dropping and sharing inappropriate stories and hinting at things but using the old "I can't talk about it". If you can't talk about it then don't bother starting the story! I didn't feel the drama added anything positive to his book. It would have been interesting to hear less "famous friends" stories but some with more depth to the friendships and how the person affected his life/career/personal growth perhaps.
I still like him as an entertainer and would have a glass of the finest champers with him given the chance (and that says a lot, I don't really like wine/bubbles).
August 21, 2023
This has been an interesting read as I knew Anthony at his secondary school and know how incredible his voice was in school musicals and on a music department CD.
What I appreciated a lot in this book was his openness about the struggles and I hope that this will help others wondering about their sexuality and their mental health.
As well Anthony has shared a lot about the workings of the music industry, which I hope will also give people respect for those who have the strength to keep working in a hard industry. Also in having more empathy for singers and other musicians going through hard times.
Like for authors, a contract does not mean that an album will be made.
The only thing I questioned was the depiction of Werribee being a working class suburb when he was in Secondary school. This had changed by then as the Census' from the time would show, it had become a mixture of working class and middle class.
What I appreciated a lot in this book was his openness about the struggles and I hope that this will help others wondering about their sexuality and their mental health.
As well Anthony has shared a lot about the workings of the music industry, which I hope will also give people respect for those who have the strength to keep working in a hard industry. Also in having more empathy for singers and other musicians going through hard times.
Like for authors, a contract does not mean that an album will be made.
The only thing I questioned was the depiction of Werribee being a working class suburb when he was in Secondary school. This had changed by then as the Census' from the time would show, it had become a mixture of working class and middle class.
August 23, 2024
2 stars for Anthony’s poor long suffering hubby
I am / was a fan of Anthony, and think he is really talented, but I kinda wish I hadn’t read this. The book starts off with Anthony telling us about his childhood and struggles with his sexuality and the music industry, all of this was very real and something I am thankful he felt comfortable sharing. However somewhere along the way, Anthony just got really vain and the remainder of the book just become very superficial, a little bitter and just poor me. There is also a lot of talk about his drinking and stories about famous people where we get no information because after dangling that carrot, Anthony goes on to say he can’t tell us that story. Well then why bring it up??
I also listened to the audio version so I wonder if that made it worse. I found Anthony’s reading lacked depth and emotion, and it felt like he was reading words rather than telling a story.
Sorry Anthony, this wasn’t for me
I am / was a fan of Anthony, and think he is really talented, but I kinda wish I hadn’t read this. The book starts off with Anthony telling us about his childhood and struggles with his sexuality and the music industry, all of this was very real and something I am thankful he felt comfortable sharing. However somewhere along the way, Anthony just got really vain and the remainder of the book just become very superficial, a little bitter and just poor me. There is also a lot of talk about his drinking and stories about famous people where we get no information because after dangling that carrot, Anthony goes on to say he can’t tell us that story. Well then why bring it up??
I also listened to the audio version so I wonder if that made it worse. I found Anthony’s reading lacked depth and emotion, and it felt like he was reading words rather than telling a story.
Sorry Anthony, this wasn’t for me
November 5, 2023
I struggled with this book. It felt like I was reading or listening to a wedding speech. Perhaps the only interesting bit is, behind the scenes in the music industry, which he touched on a little bit. There were a lot of unnecessary details in his relationship with his husband, their travels and so on. It wasn’t interesting and it wasn’t memorable. Not for the reader. Nothing extraordinary has happened in his life apart from the fact that he can sing. I am
Really disappointed, but I had no expectations anyway.
Really disappointed, but I had no expectations anyway.
June 3, 2023
I listened to the audio which was read by Anthony himself. That really added to my enjoyment of the story - I wanted him to break out in song but I guess that’s a bit hard in a book. I really enjoyed Anthony’s honest memoir and the behind the scenes look into what and who made him into who he is today. I liked hearing about the celebrities he has met and his various TV and singing gigs. I really enjoyed hearing about his relationship with Tim - they seem like such fun people.
July 9, 2023
Who doesn’t love Australian Idol! really loved this memoir by Anthony Callea, a very honest portrayal of his life to date. Loved his sense of humour and the stories he tells about his life, marriage, working with the best singers and coming out. He has such a supportive family and that voice is undeniably wonderful. Who can forget The Prayer, his signature song.
Read this in one sitting - 5 stars!
Read this in one sitting - 5 stars!
February 8, 2024
This was an easy read, a real eye opener with what goes on behind the scenes and how the Biggest names suddenly forget where they have come from.
I honestly didn't like Dicko either, I felt some of his comments to be unnecessary and offensive. He was one of the reasons I stopped watching the show.
If you want an honest open account of what goes on in the music business then this book if for you. Anthony tells it like it is.
Thank you for your honesty. HEY TIM where's your book.
I honestly didn't like Dicko either, I felt some of his comments to be unnecessary and offensive. He was one of the reasons I stopped watching the show.
If you want an honest open account of what goes on in the music business then this book if for you. Anthony tells it like it is.
Thank you for your honesty. HEY TIM where's your book.
August 23, 2025
A charming, sweet memoir about an Italian-Australian dealing with his rise to fame, his belief system, his love of singing, his desire to do what he wanted and not what some faceless music exec drone wanted. It was about his love for his husband, Tim, and vice versa. It was about a journey, about discovering oneself. It was about staying true to yourself. It was about music and love. Even if you’re not or weren’t a fan of Anthony Callea, this memoir will make you laugh and cry and enjoy the ride. 4.5/5
Note: I read the ebook, not the audiobook
More here: https://jessicagrixtistanley.com/2023...
Note: I read the ebook, not the audiobook
More here: https://jessicagrixtistanley.com/2023...
December 30, 2023
I like listening to real life stories and this was the same because I watched Anthony on Australian Idol and of course heard his interviews after about his struggles and his journeys so to hear from him about his thoughts reflecting back was interesting to hear. I know the media always writes their own stories about people and issues so I'm glad he got to put pen to paper and share his story.
February 2, 2025
I feel like I’m Anthony’s best friend after reading this book! I laughed and cried as we sat together on the couch while he told me stories about the (mostly) dramatic times in his life. It’s was a friendly and welcoming read, interesting and entertaining, and as down-to-earth as you could get from Anthony Callea!
April 11, 2023
I loved this book, it was beautifully written and read by Anthony Callea. It is so easy to forget that behind the public smile and the laughter there can be so much going on. I wish you well in all that you do. A perfect Easter read 🥂
November 4, 2023
Found this book very interesting and learnt a few things. I had heard many of the stories before at his concerts. It still made me giggle along the way! I did find sometimes the writing was a bit jumpy but that is him so it sort of works!
March 27, 2024
This audiobook scratches the right itch after watching the second season of the rebooted Australian Idol. Just the right mix of behind the scenes gossip and info about Anthony Callea.
The author came across as cool and friendly. Just how described working with Celine Dion. Such a classy lady.
The author came across as cool and friendly. Just how described working with Celine Dion. Such a classy lady.
April 15, 2023
Forthright, sincere and humorous.
April 30, 2023
Absolutely loved this. I laughed, cried and smiled throughout.. all the better for buying the audiobook!
May 2, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this book. Anthony's has had a very interesting life. He has done so.much more than I knew. It is definitely worth the read.
May 18, 2023
One word
OBSESSED
I LOVE YOU ANTH
OK THATS 5 WORDS!
OBSESSED
I LOVE YOU ANTH
OK THATS 5 WORDS!
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