State Library Of Queensland Launches Music Conversations Series, 'Songs To Live By'

In 2026, the State Library of Queensland will launch a new music-focused conversation series, Songs To Live By.

The in-conversation events will see local musicians share the songs that shaped their lives, performing five career-defining songs, stripped back at the library. The performances will be combined with personal reflections and behind-the-scenes stories that show another layer to the music.

Robert Forster of The Go-Betweens fame will open the series, where he’ll host conversations with Custard frontman and the voice of Bandit in Bluey, Dave McCormack; fellow Bluey star (the voice of Calypso) and singer-songwriter Meg Washington; and First Nations award-winning artist, Fred Leone.

The State Library of Queensland has described the events as intimate celebrations of music, memory, and storytelling. Tickets for all three events are on sale now via the State Library’s website.

The conversation with McCormack will take place on the evening of Friday, 13 February, followed by Washington’s chat on Friday, 20 March, and Leone’s event on Friday, 1 May.

This month and next month, the State Library of Queensland’s The Edge Screens will host the digital showcase of 4ZZZ to celebrate the community radio station’s 50th anniversary.

The exhibition is part of the Library’s Stranded program, celebrating five decades of 4ZZZ Radio through music, art, fashion, design, and the community’s creativity.

In October, The Music caught up with Dave McCormack ahead of the release of The Polaroids’ new album, one of his myriad musical projects. In the interview, he explained that both the film and the series’s staying power continues to generate interest around the world.

“It's the sweetest gig in the world because I don't have to do anything – I just act like myself – and everyone loves the show, and the people who do it are great,” McCormack told The Music. “And it's all made in Brissie, and I'm just going to soak it up. The movie's going to be really good, I know. And people are going to love it, so I'm just along for the ride.”