In 2010, the Sydney Opera House embarked on a project to record the Nick Cave (and the Bad Seeds) indie classic “The Ship Song” as a tribute – and anthem – to the famous Australian landmark and cultural cathedral.

The “project” included Cave, an Australian of course, along with other renowned Aussie and international musicians, such as Paul Kelly, Neil Finn, Katie Noonan, (Canadian) Martha Wainright, and others. There’s even a snippet of opera.

And naturally, the performances took place in (and on) the Opera House, from its stage to back stage and even on the roof, adding a unique and stunning backdrop to this elegant version of already utterly lovely song.

So, in recognition of the venue’s 50th anniversary (see previous story), here is “an iconic song for an iconic building” – and a video truly not to be missed.

Lyrics

Come sail your ships around me
And burn your bridges down
We make a little history, baby
Every time you come around

Come loose your dogs upon me
And let your hair hang down
You are a little mystery to me
Every time you come around

We talk about it all night long
We define our moral ground
But when I crawl into your arms
Everything comes tumbling down

Come sail your ships around me
And burn your bridges down
We make a little history, baby
Every time you come around

Your face has fallen sad now
For you know the time is nigh
When I must remove your wings
And you, you must try to fly

Come sail your ships around me
And burn your bridges down
We make a little history, baby
Every time you come around

Come loose your dogs upon me
And let your hair hang down
You are a little mystery to me
Every time you come around