Paperboy to bring the soul to Queenscliff

Marking 20 years since his debut, Eli “Paperboy” Reed will celebrate his milestone with an extensive Australian tour in May 2025, including a stop in Queenscliff.

Known for his sweaty, searing performances and his raspy, soulful voice, Reed will bring his sensational new show Down Under

His guests on the tour will include and recent Grammy nominees The Harlem Gospel Travelers (HGT) and The Meltdown, Melbourne’s purveyors of southern soul, featuring rich instrumentation with a blend of Stax and Motown vibes.

Members of The Meltdown will also form part of Reed’s and HGT’s respective bands. They will travel with Reed for his entire tour

Now with famed indie label Yep Roc Records as his home and nine albums to his name, Reed also produced HGT’s latest album, Rhapsody, which earned the nod for Best Gospel Roots Album.

“I can’t wait to get back to Australia and reconnect with my fans over there – hopefully make some new ones too,” Reed said.

“My passion for performing is stronger than ever and my brand new show is guaranteed to get everyone dancing and sweating.

“We’re gonna have a great time, I promise you that!

“I’m also honoured to be one of the headliners at the iconic Blues On Broadbeach, sharing the stage with some phenomenal local and international artists.”

Two decades after busking in Harvard Square and honing his craft, this soul man continues to write, sing, and perform on his own terms, delivering performances that connect deeply with audiences.

“I could never have imagined that 20 years ago, when I was starting out, playing for tips on the streets of Boston, that music would take me where it has,” Reed said.

“The lessons I’ve learned over the last two decades have made my music more mature and my live show the best it’s ever been. I can’t wait to see what the next 20 years bring.”

Tickets are now on sale.

Eli “Paperboy” Reed and The Meltdown will perform at the Queenscliff Town Hall on May 24, 2025.

For more information, head to elipaperboyreed.com