Paul Weller Fan Podcast

Part of the music industry for nearly 50 years, Kevin Metcalfe takes a break from enjoying his recent retirement to join me on this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast.Kevin is an industry legend. A sound mastering engineer with an impressive repertoire of all kinds of artists and all types of musical styles under his belt. This fella has played a key role on hundreds, if not thousands, of singles and album releases over the years including David Bowie, Adele, U2, Queen, ELO, Depeche Mode, Pulp, Simply Red, The Who, Brian Eno, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Mark Stewart, Adrian Sherwood and more…This is one of those episodes where we hear the connections to Paul Weller ( he mastered Illumination, Studio 150, As Is Now and Catch-Flame) but also plenty of tales from a career that started in 1973, as a 20 year old cutting discs with cassettes and 8-track at RCA…He soon moved to Delane Lea / CTS Studios at Wembley ( or The Music Centre as it came to be known) - where they scored the Bond movies and the world’s great reggae artists who’d pop in straight off the plane from Jamaica.It was at Utopia Studios from 1979 to 1983 that he really built his reputation as a sound and engineering mastering expert. Kevin worked with Roxy Music, Duran Duran, Ultravox and Japan. As the punk scene took off, Kevin worked with The Clash, Siouxsie Soux and more…Kevin got asked to join Virgin Records in 1982 (which later became part of EMI) and ended up staying for 15 years. He then went on to create his own company Soundmasters UK in 1997, which led to the work with Paul Weller, along with Adele, Damon Albarn, Can, Gary Clail (another personal favourite), Orbital, African Headcharge…We also have a few other PW connections with former podcast guests - Nick Heyward, Kathryn Williams and The Zombies!.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I am joined by songwriter, musician Chris Free. He was one half of the duo A Craze who were signed to Paul Weller’s Respond record label in the early 1980s.We chat about his love of punk including The Jam and The Clash and his first band The Users, to meeting Lucy Barron, forming A Craze and getting signed to the project.The band played on the Respond package tours, on line ups featuring Tracie Young, The Questions and Vaughan Toulouse. They were also on the bill for the BBC broadcast gig featuring The Style Council at the Paris Theatre in London.A Craze released one single, the Paul Weller produced Wearing Your Jumper and featured on the Respond sampler LP, Love the Reason with their song Keeping the Boys Amused.Chris and Lucy also wrote Give It Some Emotion which got to 24 in the UK charts and You Must Be Kidding which was the b-side to Soul's On Fire...Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the podcast, we take a journey from The Jam to Paul Weller Solo via two super-fans... and a wonderful love story...David Rowe, and his partner, Jo White, have been to around 450 live shows and have some incredible stories and connections over the past 45 years... including joining the merchandise team for The Style Council and Paul Weller Solo!.David met Jo at school in St.Austell (double history) when she moved to Cornwall from Bounds Green, North London in 1978. They got the same bus to and from school (Jo to Pentewan, and David to Mevagissey). As you'll hear on the podcast, Jo introduced David to The Jam and they formed a great friendship through the music and live performances.Jo moved back to London in March 1984 when she started her nursing career in Paediatric Intensive Care. In April 1984, David started working as a Postman in St.Austell but left when he didn’t have enough annual leave to do the 2nd Style Council tour in October 1984!.David moved to London in 1985 and inspired by messages & campaigning from Paul Weller... he worked for The BUAV (The British Union for the Abolition of Vivisection) , Greenpeace UK and then Amnesty International, where he worked for 26 years....In 1985, David and Jo started doing ad-hoc merchandising work for Brian Hawkins, who had done The Jam’s merchandise before doing The Style Council.It started off just selling programmes after gigs and gradually they helped to set up and travelled with Brian, culminating in working on the early Paul Weller solo tours and the U.S. gigs in December 1991 and all Weller solo UK tours until the end of 1992 when Brian sadly lost the contract.Their only stipulation on doing the merch was that they clocked off at show time and came back out to sell after the encore!.David says "We’ve attended about 450 Shows (The Jam, The Style Council & Weller solo). Jo did a few more Jam shows than me. We did every Style Council UK tour date ( we both missed the Manchester Apollo gig on 12 October 1984 after the Wembley rail crash and I missed two more whilst doing The Communards ‘Red’ tour in 1987)."Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I am joined by another hugely talented individual in the world of music - Engineer, producer, mixer and editor, Fiona Cruickshank.One of the few people to feature on our series, who is involved in more music releases each year than Mr Weller ! She has been working in studios for over a decade now and is more in demand than ever - even getting a well deserved double win at the 2022 Music Producer Guild Awards for Recording Engineer of the Year and Breakthrough Producer of the Year.Her portfolio shows a breadth of creative approaches transcending film, music, and performance arts.Check out some of her incredible CV below... including Paul Weller's 2020 and 2021 album releases - On Sunset and Fat Pop (Volume 1).PaulWellerFanPodcast.com/episode-155-fiona-cruickshankFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, recorded at the Here Comes The Weekend event in Woking, I chat to another huge talent to join this incredible musical journey. Steve Nichol.He’s a Multi-instrumentalist, Producer, Songwriter… who just happens to one of the founders of influential eighties Brit Soul flag bearers Loose Ends…It was a joy to hear his memories of a year spent with on keys and trumpet with The Jam…Live performances across the UK, Europe, US and Japan…Top of The Pops… and music promo videos…And on record with multiple tracks on the band’s final chart-topping album The Gift… and tracks on their final single releases…His time with the band began towards the end of 1981…The Jam had already established themselves as a pretty awesome force to be reckoned with – riding the crest of a (new) wave from the world of punk to become one of the biggest bands in Britain.Five Top 40 albums (Three of those hitting the Top Ten) and eleven Top 40 singles ( Five of those going Top Ten with a couple hitting the Number One spot!)….However, as the band evolved and sought to expand their musical boundaries, they recognized the need for a fresh infusion of talent. Enter Steve Nichol, a multi-talented musician with an undeniable flair for trumpet and keys.The Jam with a brass section… who’d have thought it?Together with Keith Thomas (who sadly passed away last year), Steve’s addition to the line up brought a new dimension to their sound, blending melodic brass and keyboard contributions seamlessly with the band’s energetic new wave spirit.Find out more in the shownotes to this podcast at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-154-steve-nicholBuy a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was a real honour to be asked to MC and interview guests at the recent Here Comes The Weekend event in Woking, and the first day was a 40th anniversary celebration of The Style Council.Yes, it really has been 4 whole decades since the reveal of a new venture from a fella called Paul Weller who had been in a pretty small band called The Jam… and an absolute wizard on the keys… Mick Talbot…The band went on release an incredibly diverse mix of singles - A sides , B sides - and albums that incorporated elements of pop, soul, jazz, classical and R&B into their sound.Their music was characterized by its sophisticated and polished production, catchy melodies, and socially conscious lyrics.Throughout the day, we had a great in-conversation session with Nicky Weller, live music from The Style Councillors and even an album playback of Café Bleu!On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, you can hear a recording of a special panel of guests chatting about their experiences in the band.Founding member - Mick Talbot, along with Honorary Councillors... Singer - Jaye Ella Ruth AKA Jaye Williamson, Brass musician and arranger… the man on trumpet and flugelhorn - Stewart Prosser and Bass Player Camelle Hinds - a man so good on the bass that Weller tapped him up again in the 90s…Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I am joined by David Quantick - a writer whose work spans over 4 decades now. He joined NME as a staff writer in 1983.We dig in to stories of The Jam, The Style Council and Paul Weller Solo... and David's connections to the man and his music...He also just happens to be a hugely successful comedy writer and screenwriter for some of the most outstanding TV and Radio series over the past 30 years with credits for shows such as On the Hour, The Day Today, The Thick of It, Blue Jam, Harry Hill's TV Burp, Veep (for which he won an Emmy in 2015) and Avenue 5.Find out more at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-152-david-quantickFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I am joined by Scottish author, David F. Ross.David is an architect by day, and a hilarious social-media commentator, author and enabler by night. His debut novel The Last Days of Disco inspired by The Jam's 1979 classic album - Setting Sons - became an international best-seller in 2015..."The Jam were my first favourite band, and you never really forget your first love."We learn all about his discovery of The Jam in the late 1970s, and the influences and connections that remain in play to this day. The thrill of live performance being one example. David has seen Paul Weller on stage in one incarnation or another on close to thirty occasions. His very first gig was seeing the band when he was fifteen at Glasgow Apollo on 8th December 1979 - and he went on to see them live at Newcastle City Hall, Hammersmith Odeon, and even The Magnum in Irvine!....The lyrics and words that Paul used in those songs that still mean so much to David and so many others to this day. An example being "That's Entertainment" - a song that David has described as "The greatest song in the English language. Paul Weller captured much of that humdrum, everyday boredom of teenage life in Thatcher’s Britain in The Jam songs of the late 70s and early 80s. It’s a brilliant evocation of those times, and I can identify absolutely with every line."David's own writing owes an embryonic debt to Paul Weller, and to Setting Sons in particular. "I find that complex blend of youthful working-class hope coming apart at the seams of adult and mid-life pressures very relatable. It’s a powerful canvas on which to play out dramatic ideas about people and relationships, and one I return to regularly."The Style Council... pop innovation...Paul, Mick, Dee, Steve and the music created with honorary councillors a plenty also meant so much to David in the 1980s to now. A connection formed through the great songs again but also the image, the fashion, the sophistication, their core values, and, of course, the more overtly political approach to the lyrics... the power of words once again..."...The Style Council weren’t given the credit for pop innovation and chameleon diversity that the songs deserved, especially those on those first two scintillating LPs."David saw TSC on numerous occasions live including the very last night of the Glasgow Apollo, 16th June, 1985. (and in Manchester the night before - because "why not?")."Still sounding essential and indispensable...As you would expect, Paul Weller's solo years have been, and continue to be a huge influence on David - both personally and in his career as an author. Writing a fabulous blog on Paul's 2023 Hamburg gig he remarked... "In the early 90s, at the dawning of Weller’s solo career, it happened again. Marriage, kids, emerging personal and professional responsibilities; all relatable touchstones beginning to work their way into his lyrics just as they became catalysts for my own altered priorities."Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we celebrate 150 episodes of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, what better way to mark the occasion than an episode with elusive producer, Brendan Lynch.From working with The Style Council as an engineer towards the end of their life-cycle (Modernism/Promised Land/King Truman) to co-producing a series of outstanding solo album releases with Paul Weller. We're talking that Paul Weller debut solo album, Wild Wood, Stanley Road, Heavy Soul and Heliocentric.He has also produced for Primal Scream, Ocean Colour Scene, 22-20s, Carleen Anderson and more...During his time working with Paul, Brendan also gave us some epic remixes on tracks such as Kosmos, Science and Sunflower. (I've put links below so that you can have a listen).Brendan has also remixed songs for the likes of Massive Attack, Air, Young Disciples, Dr John and Oasis (Champagne Supernova which was the band's first remix!). He was also a member of Paul Weller's touring band in the Heavy Soul period performing live with the band on numerous occasions.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I am joined singer-songwriter-musician-producer-sound artist, Gwenno AKA Gwenno Saunders. She is another of those incredible talents to have entered Paul Weller's orbit - first as somebody whose music he has regularly recommended, and then as a remixer for one of his songs from On Sunset in 2020.Her creations are things of beauty - sung in Cornish and / or Welsh - hypnotic with gorgeous, enchanting melodies, a captivating blend of dreamy synth-pop and ethereal vocals that transport listeners to otherworldly realms. Her work to date is a real sonic journey that immerses audiences in a unique and introspective musical experience.It was a real delight to dive into her story-so-far, from that early love of music, being raised in a bi-lingual household by a Welsh activist mother and a Cornish poet father to the creation of a trilogy of stunning albums. The details of which you will find below. Albums that were introduced to me by (you've guessed it!) - Paul Weller...Her debut alum Y DYDD OLAF won Welsh Album of the Year Award at the 2015 National Eisteddfod and the 2015 Welsh Music Prize. It was also mentioned in Uncut Magazine (Jan 2016 Issue)..."The band come off stage buzzing, but there’s no time to celebrate. After a quick change of clothes - Weller hands over a CD to listen to. (Y Dydd Olaf by Gwenno) and shouting farewell, disappears down the stairs, followed by the band."Her second album, LE KOV, was named as one of the best albums of 2018 by so many publications, including The Guardian, Uncut and Mojo. Reaching #13 on the Official Independent Albums Chart (UK), it was nominated for 'Best Sophomore Release' at the 2018 AIM Independent Music Awards and shortlisted for the 2018 Welsh Music Prize.Paul Weller featured it in his list in Uncut Magazine for the end of year round up.Her third album, TRESOR released in 2022, took things to another level again.It was also shortlisted for the Mercury Music Prize, making Gwenno the first Mercury Music Prize nominated artist not to sing in English!.It rightly earned it's place on album of the year lists everywhere - NME, Mojo, Uncut Magazine etc, including once again Paul Weller…who said “ I really loved Gwenno’s album - this is her best so far. She sings in Cornish and Welsh so I’ve no idea what the lyrics are about but the sound of the words is so beautiful and evocative."Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of the podcast was recorded live in front of a 'studio' audience at The Water Rats, London...In the realm of music photography, there are certain individuals who possess a unique ability to capture the essence of a band, conveying their spirit through the lens. One such luminary is Peter Anderson, a photographer renowned for his collaboration with The Style Council.Peter attended Glasgow School of Art and the Royal College of Art, London, he was staff photographer at New Musical Express in the 1980s, and worked for The Face, iD and Rolling Stone magazine.Many of the most iconic images of The Style Council - Paul and Mick - were taken by him during their formative years (some taken before we even knew that they would be The Style Council).Trough his lens, he managed to encapsulate the band's energy, camaraderie, and distinctive fashion sense, which became an integral part of their identity.Look at the sleeves for those early singles - the rear of Speak Like a Child, the tree shot on Money-Go-Round, those amazing images for the À Paris EP, that Café Bleu album cover... iconic images that have stood the test of time.He also took incredible photos of music icons such as Madonna, Iggy Pop, Marvin Gaye, Joe Strummer, Bowie, Jagger, Sade, Depeche Mode, Herbie Hancock, The Fall, Ozzy Osbourne…Oh… and THE BEST BAND IN THE F@&KING WORLD - THE JAM!Peter has a wonderful knack of being able to tell a visual story through his work. Each photograph possesses a narrative quality, inviting viewers into a world where music and aesthetics converge. His images not only showcase the band's on-stage charisma but also provide glimpses into Paul and Mick's camaraderie from day one.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drumming is often the rhythmic heartbeat that propels music forward, and within the realm of influential drummers, Bev Bevan's name shines brightly. Known for his exceptional talent, he has not only left an indelible mark on the music industry but has also inspired countless drummers around the world.What an honour it is to have Bev join me on this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast as we dig into memories of The Move (One of the best and most important British groups of the late 1960s). The band are a huge favourite of Paul Weller so much so that he invited Bev to play on the Wake Up The Nation album, that was released in 2010.At the time, Paul commented on his website... "Bev Bevan plays drums on this one. Producer, Simon Dine and I are big psychedelic music fans, so it was a real buzz. I was back to being a ten year old Move fan again."Bev played drums on the two songs that open the album... Moonshine and Wake Up The Nation.Paul Weller told him that he was his second choice; his first choice would have been Keith Moon...Bev Bevan's impact on drumming and music is undeniable. His exceptional talent, innovative style, and influential presence have made him a revered figure in the music industry. Aspiring drummers continue to draw inspiration from his work, fueling their own musical journeys. Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast was recorded live at London's iconic The Water Rats venue.My special guest, Mod Author and DJ, Paul 'Smiler' Anderson shared stories from The Jam to now.Kicking off with how it was The Jam that ignited a lifelong passion for all things Mod. We also dig in to three of his incredible books. Kicking off with Mods: The New Religion which was published in 2013.It's a vivid, exciting snapshot of what it was really like to be with the in-crowd... so much so that it got the seal of approval from Paul Weller, leading to collaborations on other projects and a friendship between the two since...Find out more in the show-notes for this podcast at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com/episode-146-paul-smiler-andersonFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast, we hear from Sarah Jane Morris - a singer-songwriter who has been sharing her musical talents with us for over 40 years now.An artist who straddles rock, blues, jazz and soul and is in possession of a stunning four octave vocal range that'll blow your mind.Her connections to Paul Weller date back to the mid-80s, when she was part of The Communards and they joined the Red Wedge Tour. As you'll hear 1986 was an pretty incredible year for her, with the worldwide smash-hit of Don't Leave Me This Way! as well.She released her debut album, Sarah Jane Morris in March 1989, receiving great critical acclaim and selling over 100,000 copies. The second single Me And Mrs Jones attained cult status as the BBC banned it for its lesbian implications.Sixteen solo albums later, pop stardom on the continent, and a diverse set of musical collaborations on record, film and stage, Sarah Jane continues to steer her unorthodox career to greater heights.In the early 1990s, Paul Weller handed her a tune called Leaves Around the Door which she added to her live setlist, including for a performance captured on her Blue Valentine LIVE at Ronnie Scott's album.You may well recognise the song under the name A Year Late which Paul himself recorded and released later on as the b-side to You Do Something To Me)In another lovely Weller connection, in 2021, Sarah Jane recorded a new album called Let The Music Play, with the Italian producer Papik. Both artists chose songs from the 80s and rearranged them with a jazz/bosa/soul vibe. On the album, you'll find a stunning cover of You're The Best Thing by The Style Council along with songs from artists as diverse as Prefab Sprout, Barry White, Todd Rundgren, Simply Red and Everything But The Girl. Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode 144: Mark Cooper... Co-creator and founding producer of 'Later... with Jools Holland' and the annual Hootenanny plus Record Mirror Magazine Music Journalist and more...My podcast guest on Episode 144 has a completely unique story from music journalist in the time of The Jam to co-creator of a music TV show that has featured Paul Weller more than any other artist.Mark Cooper is another stunner of a guest, and WOW... What a storyteller!. We dive in to the early days of The Jam as punk and new wave hits the US, finding Mark as a student who starts writing about gigs stateside. He then lands a job back home for Record Mirror, reviewing albums and singles, interview bands, musicians, singers and songwriters including Paul Weller in a wonderful interview with the headline of The Jam: Whine, Women and Song in the issue published on 17 July 1982We also dig in to the incredible story of Later… with Jools Holland.Mark is the co-creator and founding producer of the show and of the annual Hootenanny, booking and shaping both for 26 years without missing a single recording. So we hear all about it's creation to it's build into a musical and TV institution.... and so many stories of appearances and collaborations from our podcast subject - Paul Weller...Mark also led the BBC's TV coverage of Glastonbury from a muddy 1997 until a locked down 20020 and executive producer over 250 BBC music documentaries including the Britannia and America strands and the year-by-year Top of the Pops histories.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As you will have heard many times on this podcast series so far, Paul Weller has a long tradition of supporting up and coming music artists. Welsh neo soul artist Nia Wyn is another huge talent to get his stamp of approval and it was a real joy to hear her story on this episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast.Her music takes influence from Soul, RnB, Jazz, Pop and Hip-Hop to create something new, something that is uniquely hers. Trust me when I say that her incredible, unmistakable vocals will blow you away with each release and live performance....In our podcast chat, we dig into the recent past to hear about her connections with Paul Weller from a WhatsApp intro that leads to Paul picking Nia up from Woking station for a songwriting and recording session at Black Barn Studio (Paul Weller HQ) and the creation of her beautiful soulful song “Turnstyles”.Released as a single in June 2018, Paul plays bass, hammond organ and piano and sings backing vocals on the song.We also chatted about live performance and as you'll hear on the podcast, Nia opened for Paul at his concert in York in August 2018, along with supporting him on dates for the rescheduled-rescheduled On Sunset / Fat Pop tour in 2021.2022 saw her release more new music with her Magical Thinking EP and she also reached the finals of Glastonbury Festival's Emerging Talent competition. That Summer saw her go on to play the Somerset festival along with Latitude and she supported Paul Weller again at Lytham Festival... Not a bad year right?Nia is another artist, to be endorsed by Paul, whose songs take you on a journey.A raw and powerful style of storytelling that at times can be observational - stories about others, in the third person or more often it would seem that she is singing something deeply personal, open, honest and introspective. Not afraid to wear her heart on her sleeve to tackle topics that may appear to be taboo (her own mental health challenges as example) in an age where those areas of discussion really shouldn't be.She has an incredible knack of making you think with her music whilst also having that all important gift of melody. Every release so far has been pretty special and builds on what has come before and I'm genuinely excited by what is to come in the future.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I’m delighted to be joined on the Paul Weller Fan Podcast by author, editor and music journalist, Paul Du Noyer… His interviewees have ranged from Madonna to Pavarotti, David Bowie to Mick Jagger and nearly everyone with a strong connection to The Beatles, not least Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr.And of course interviews with Paul Weller!. Interviews during The Jam, The Style Council and Solo periods in publications such as NME, The Hit, Mojo and The Word Magazine.You can find links to some of those interviews below...Paul Du Noyer’s career began on the NME, he was on the launch teams of magazines - Q, MOJO, heat and The Word. He edited Q and was the founding editor of MOJO. For the latter he was named Editor of the Year by the British Society of Magazine Editors.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast, we dive in to the memories of Pete Mason.Pete spent 17 years working for both major and independent record labels in the UK including Polydor, Phonogram, Chrysalis, Go! Discs and Independiente, which saw him involved with album & single releases from many of the UK’s finest artists including The La's, Billy Bragg, Portishead, The Beautiful South, Travis, and two of his all-time music heroes John Martyn and Paul Weller.While at Independiente Paul Weller invited Pete to work as Executive Producer on his live solo acoustic album Days Of Speed. The acoustic, double live album featured songs from across Paul’s career including The Jam classics; That’s Entertainment and Town Called Malice, The Style Council’s Headstart For Happiness and Down In The Seine and solo hits such as You Do Something To Me and Wild Wood.The album was released in 2001 and reached no.3 in the UK album charts which earned him a platinum disc for his efforts.Pete also brought the legendary singer-songwriter and guitarist, John Martyn, to the Go! Discs label and then later to the Independiente label where he worked with John on four albums in an artist liaison role.In 2004 Pete left the UK and moved to Wisconsin, USA, and set up Solid Air Music which includes a project recording studio where he has spent time composing his musical ideas and working with local artists, helping them to record and produce their music.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the podcast, we hear from filmmaker, Steve Barron.This fella was behind the music promo videos for The Jam's Strange Town, When You're Young, Going Underground and Dreams of Children... This was all pre-MTV... in a world where Top of the Pops wanted as-live performances rather than music videos.He also happened to create some of the most-watched music videos of all time, we're talking "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson, "Money for Nothing" by Dire Straits and "Take On Me" by A-ha as examples.These films defined the medium during the early days of MTV and are still considered among the best of all time.The videos for "Take On Me" and "Billie Jean" have each garnered over 1 billion views on YouTube.Steve has also directed several films, including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990), Coneheads (1993), The Adventures of Pinocchio (1996) and Mike Bassett: England Manager (2001).Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the podcast, we celebrate the release of Paul Weller’s new book Magic – A Journal Of Song through a conversation with its curator - journalist and author, Dylan Jones.Dylan was my guest back on Episode 58 of the podcast, prior to this book being revealed and so I really wanted to check in, with my copy in hand to dig in to the 'making of' this incredible publication.The hardback edition is officially available in bookstores from today (April 4th 2023), with the special limited editions shipping from May 2023.The book takes us on a journey from In the City to Fat Pop, through unforgettable songwriting that has meant so much to so many. From The Jam in his teenage years, to creating The Style Council, through to his years as a solo musician. Magic combines a selection of over 100 lyrics from across Paul Weller’s musical life, proving him to be the ultimate shapeshifter: from The Jam’s punk sensibilities to the genre-defying Style Council, through to a remarkable 30-year solo career. His third Genesis edition, Magic is narrated by Weller and illustrated with more than 450 photographs and pieces of ephemera throughout. A revealing commentary garnered over a series of conversations with journalist and author Dylan Jones covers the songs, the stories and inspirations behind them, and all of the 28 albums of Weller’s ever-evolving musical journey.You can watch a video with Paul and Dylan and order the book at WellerBook.comFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, we hear from Barry Cain - another key player in this incredible story arc as from the tail-end of the seventies to the beginning of the nineties, Barry was a music journalist, publisher, and PR man.He joined Record Mirror at the end of 1976 - the start of the punk explosion - and was perfectly placed to take part in, and report on, the scene. Barry was viewed as an 'insider' by the bands of the time and his access was unrivalled. So much so that if you flip to the back sleeve of The Modern World album by The Jam, you'll see a credit to Barry... (Special thanks to Mr B. Cain (Teenage Blue).On this podcast chat, we hear about his first The Jam gig at the Hope and Anchor to the band's first nationwide tour, travels across Europe including a visit to Dachau Concentration Camp, magazine reviews for gigs, singles and albums, and of course, interviews galore - including the band's final one.We also hear how in 1980, together with writer Tim Lott, he launched Flexipop! magazine. A publication which featured a flexi disc on the cover of each issue exclusively recorded by artists like The Jam, Blondie, Madness, the Cure, Adam Ant and even Genesis. Flexipop! has to be the most bizarre pop music magazine ever published... stand-out features include Paul Weller as a TV critic, revealing his nasty habits, a photo history of The Jam and even Paul Weller in bondage... Barry had such a great connection with The Jam that Paul even wrote and performed - ‘Pop-Art Poem’ – just for Flexipop!.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, we dig in to stories from the solo years with Jamie Johnson.Jamie has been working as a musician, producer and sound engineer since the early 1990’s. As a house engineer at Phil Manzanera’s (Roxy Music) Gallery Studio, he recorded with some of the world's leading musicians and producers, before becoming freelance in 1999.He has worked on numerous No 1 albums for artists including Paul Weller, Razorlight and David Gilmour, he co-produced Robert Wyatt's Mercury nominated album ‘Cuckooland’ in 2004, and recorded and mixed Paul Weller's Mercury shortlisted album ‘Wake Up The Nation’ in 2010.Jamie also contributed to albums - Heavy Soul, Heliocentric, 22 Dreams, Sonik Kicks and A Kind Revolution.Outside of the world of Weller, Jamie has also recorded albums with some of Spain and South America's most successful artists including Heroes Del Silencio, Robi Draco Rosa and The Hall Effect.Jamie began teaching guitar in 2012, before starting Music Club in the summer of 2014.Find out more in the show notes to this podcast at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-137-jamie-johnsonFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let's celebrate the 40th anniversary of the start of The Style Council and the release of that debut single Speak Like a Child back on March 11th 1983. I really wanted to chat to someone who knows what it's like to sing and perform that band's incredible songs live on stage to adoring audiences. In the absence of Paul Weller for our podcast series (so far?), I turned to Darren Fletcher - the fella behind The Style Councillors - an incredible tribute to the mighty Style Council.Formed in 2013, the band have built a loyal fanbase for the group which was Paul Weller's musical home from 1983 to 1989 and where he wrote some of his finest pop songs. Their full band lineup replicates the very best from the back catalogue and not only do they replicate the vocal and sound of the songs but they also use the same original instruments to recreate the exact style and feel of the extensive original line up - including that swirling hammond organ and classic horn section...The Style Councillors are as close as it gets to actually being there, back in the eighties.Praised by the original members of the band for their love and dedication in order to 'do it how it was', come see probably the best tribute band in the world...You can find more info on upcoming live dates here... seetickets.com/tour/the-style-councillorsFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My special guest on this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast is Punk Photographer, Andy Rosen.Andy started out as a music photographer working on Record Mirror and Sounds and freelancing to NME, Melody Maker, The Face Magazine and most record companies during the burgeoning punk scene in the mid-1970s.As a friend and cohort of many who went on to become the biggest names in punk, Andy had unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to the musicians and artists of London’s early punk scene. Andy photographed many of The Jam's live gigs - including the final shots of the band in 1982 on that final gig in Brighton... plenty of his photos have never been shared... but more of that in our chat...Andy also photographed the image for the rear of the Setting Sons album cover - taken on Brighton beach, the rear of the sleeve for Start! and the cover of Town Called Malice.Find out more , buy Andy's prints with a special offer for podcast listeners, and find video of the chat with the reveal of those images at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-135-andy-rosenFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I’m joined by a huge fan of The Jam and Paul Weller... singer-songwriter Nick Heyward...Nick burst onto the scene in the early 80s with his band Haircut One Hundred and the debut album Pelican West (which has just been re-released to celebrate the 40th anniversary! ).On this episode of the podcast, Nick talks about his love of The Jam and connections with Paul Weller from sharing the stage in the US to the man who signed The Jam ( Chris Parry) to the legendary publisher, the late Brian Morrison, photographers Gered Mankowitz and Lawrence Watson to sleeve designer, Simon Halfon and much more...Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I’m joined by Franco-Algerian singer-songwriter and guitarist Souad Massi.Souad began her career fronting the Kabyle political rock band Atakor, earning her a reputation as a troublemaker in an Algeria torn apart by civil war.After fleeing to Paris following a series of death threats, she performed at the 1999 Femmes d'Algérie to great acclaim, earning her first recording contract.She has forged her reputation over the course of a career spanning more than 20 years.Driven by an unfailing determination to speak out for what she values most: freedom and justice.Her songs are steeped in love, altruism and bravery.Our Paul Weller connection comes in the 2000's - with Paul telling Uncut magazine in July 2008: "I've recently developed a bit of a thing about tango. I love that music. It's really emotional, passionate music. And in soundchecks we often mess about with tango and bolero rhythms. Again, Simon ( Dine ) had a backing track and I had a tune in my head and we started jamming on it. The melody is quite influenced by an Algerian singer called Souad Massi, who's been a huge inspiration recently."As you’ll hear on the podcast, this led to the two of them creating music together at Black Barn Studio.Resulting in a beautiful song called Let Me In Peace which featured as the last track on Souad’s album Ô Houria (Liberty).Find out more in the show notes for this podcast on my website at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-133-souad-massiAnd if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I’m joined by author, Richard Houghton - one of the people behind the book - The Jam - The Day I Was There.With a foreword written by Jam drummer Rick Buckler, this book tells the story of The Jam in the words of over 300 fans. With memories from the earliest shows at clubs and pubs around Woking and London, UK and North American tours through to their last ever gig in Brighton in December 1982. Told by the perspective of fans, promoters, studio engineers, photographers and support acts the book includes personal photographs, memorabilia, anecdotes and stories that have never been published before.Richard has previously created books the Rolling Stones, The Beatles, The Who, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix (all of which are compilations of fan memories of seeing these legendary artists live). He has also co-written a book about the semi legendary indie band The Wedding Present with lead singer David Gedge and worked with Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark on their book, Pretending To See The Future.You can buy the book, co-written with Neil Cossar (the fella behind the award winning web site and publisher - This Day in Music) here...In 2023, Richard will be publishing books on the Faces, Slade, The Beatles, The Who and Pink Floyd... Find out more at richardmhoughton.comFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the podcast, I am joined by keyboard wizard, singer and songwriter - Christopher Holland.His session and touring work has featured the likes of Green On Red, Squeeze, Sam Brown, Ethan Johns, and Ray Davies & Stereophonics.He is a hugely talented musician who joined the Paul Weller band for the Heliocentric Tour in 2000.Chris is also part of Jools Holland's Rhythm and Blues Orchestra so we’ll talk studio work like the fabulous co-write I’m Gone - which Paul delivered lead vocals on, along with TV show Later and the Hootenanny and playing with Paul as part of that set up.In between working with other artists, Christopher continues with his first passion of writing, recording and producing his own music.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I am delighted to be joined by Brass Musician and Arranger, Stewart Prosser on this 130th edition of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast for what was a hugely enjoyable chat.Stewart is such a talent - a fabulous trumpet and flugelhorn player, and brass arranger, who played a key role in The Style Council's early years. He joined the band as an Honorary Councillor in 1984 for the Council Meeting Part 1 Tour, and stayed all the way up to the Wembley Showbiz gigs at the end of 1985.Throughout his career, he has created music in a wide range of styles – jazz, classical, rock, pop and it was a delight to dig in to his memories. From his time as principal player of the Hampshire Youth Concert Band to the band Rye and The Quarter Boys and those special years with The Style Council.He was a huge part of that live sound - together with Billy Chapman on sax and Chris Lawrence on trombone. Sadly Chris is no longer with us, but it was so nice to hear Stewart's memories of his friendship with Chris in out chat.Stewart also played on studio recordings for the number one album Our Favourite Shop - performng trumpet on album opener Homebreakers and album closer Walls Come Tumbling Down, along with Flugelhorn on A Man of Great Promise. He also played trumpet on Big Boss Groove for the Groovin' single EP.We also chat about his time touring with the band across the UK, Europe, Japan and Australia - friendships made, life on the road and how his live solo came about for Le Départ (see the video below!)Stay tuned for a lovely exclusive on upcoming new music from Stewart and somebody else with a special connection to the band too!.Plus we chat about his ongoing project Walk Upon England which was created with his friend, the composer Damian Montagu. Their first album, In A South Downs Way, created with their pal, the actor Hugh Bonneville, was released in 2016 and swiftly went to Number One on the Classical Album chart!Listen out for a lovely story about a live performance of the album at a theatre in Chichester. It's a moment that tells so much about the magic of The Style Council experience.Find out more in the show notes for this podcast on my website and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Episode 129 of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I am joined by another absolute legend in the music industry - Photographer, Virginia Turbett.The British rock music and social reportage photographer is best known for her photographs of bands, fans and street culture as she captured the music, the fans and fashion of the punk, heavy metal, mod, new romantic, reggae, 2-tone and electro pop scenes in the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s.Her first photo assignment was the Sex Pistols shooting their Pretty Vacant video. She spent the next ten years photographing for Sounds, Smash Hits, The Face and ID magazines.Her work took her to the USA and Europe photographing for features on hundreds of bands and solo artists including The Jam, The Clash, Blondie, Iggy Pop, Prince, U2, Andy Warhol, Frank Zappa, Nick Cave, Depeche Mode, Madness, David Bowie and Duran Duran.Virginia also has a huge archive of social reportage work. She photographed people from many walks of life often in areas of the country suffering deprivation, unemployment and the impending end of industries that had sustained their communities eg. the closure of shipyards on the Clyde and the final days of Billingsgate Market. She covered many political events including Rock Against Racism, Anti Nazi League, Right to Work, demonstrations, marches, and conferences.Find out more in the show notes for this podcast on my website and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My guest on Episode 128 of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast is Terry Edwards. A musician who has largely been in the studio, on the radio or onstage somewhere in the world since the age of 20. Terry sings and plays an array of musical instruments - sax, trumpet, guitar, keyboards, flute - with a myriad of artists including PJ Harvey, Nick Cave, Billy Bragg, Jesus & Mary Chain, Madness, Franz Ferdinand, Jerry Dammers, Gallon Drunk, Ronnie Spector, Spiritualized and many more... When it comes to our podcast subject - Paul Weller - Terry was called upon to play on the 2010 solo album Wake Up The Nation.He's a founding member of The Higsons, the punk funk band who were signed to Jerry Dammers' label 2-Tone and has subsequently performed and released records as a solo artist (with and without his band The Scapegoats) and as a session musician. He is also a member of The Near Jazz Experience with Madness bassist Mark Bedford & former Higsons drummer Simon Charterton.Find out more in the show notes for this podcast on my website and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What a way to kick off our podcasts for 2023 ! Another world exclusive as Bill Wheeler - Paul Weller's Tour Manager joins us to share his story...First credited as part of the set up around the time of 22 Dreams - Bill is the son of the legend that is Kenny Wheeler. We'll hear how he first got involved in the Weller set up via merch to itineraries and taking on a bigger role in the set up, touring the UK, Europe, North America, Japan & Australia in his time with PW.We'll also hear how he got to play on some recordings with Paul Weller with more info below.It's a real honour to have Bill on the podcast so I hope you enjoy our chat.Please do share on social media to spread the word...Find out more at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com/episode-127-bill-wheeler Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, we hear the incredible story of another absolute legend - the multi-award-winning music photographer - Jill Furmanovsky.We kick off her story in 1965, as she emigrated from Zimbabwe with her parents to England, on to studying graphic design and starting her career in 1972, when she became in-house photographer at the Rainbow Theatre specialising in live rock concerts.Over the last fifty years she has photographed some of the greatest musicians in the world including Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, Madness, Debbie Harry, Pink Floyd, Oasis, Bob Dylan, Joy Division, Queen, Tom Waits, Chrissie Hynde, The Clash, Bjork and Amy Winehouse...And of course - The Jam, capturing many incredible shots from their live gigs, along with Paul Weller for The Face Magazine and at Glastonbury Festival as other examples...We also hear about RockArchive.com - an incredible online home for music photography, that Jill founded in 1998, which features over 1000 images by more than 80 photographers and graphic designers from all over the world.Find out more in the show notes for this podcast on my website and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I am joined by another hugely talented musician - the lady behind the keys - Helen Turner.As a much-loved Honorary Councillor for The Style Council, she performed live on multiple tours and TV performance with the band in the UK, Europe, Japan and Down Under - including Glastonbury and Live Aid!.You can also hear her recordings with Paul, Mick, Dee and Steve... we're talking songs such as 'Walls Come Tumbling Down' and 'The Lodgers'... The 'Home & Abroad' and 'In Concert' albums too.When Paul needed a keys-player to join his solo band in the early years... we're talking around Wild Wood and Stanley Road time... it was Helen who he called... a masterstroke with so many incredible live performances - captured on the likes of Jools Holland, Glastonbury '94 and Live Wood.You'll also hear her on Wild Wood and Stanley Road albums too.Helen was one of the first names on my wish-list back in 2020 so I am absolutely delighted to have tracked her down for a lovely podcast chat... Find out more in the show notes for this podcast on my website and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was a real honour to be joined by Ocean Colour Scene frontman, singer & songwriter - Simon Fowler - for this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast...Since the group formed in 1989, they have released eleven studio albums including the million-selling Moseley Shoals and the number one Marchin’ Already. Their run of twenty successive Top 20 singles includes the era-defining ‘The Riverboat Song’, ‘The Circle’ ‘The Day We Caught The Train’ and ‘Hundred Mile High City’ (as featured in the film Lock Stock & Two Shooting Barrels). The band and Paul Weller have had so many connections over the years - playing on each other's records, hanging out, music videos and TV promo appearances, playing live together and on supporting slots - not least with Steve Cradock and Damon Minchella joining Paul's band for such long periods too (Steve has been with Paul for around 30 years now!).Check out my chat with Simon and ordered his new book - The life & lyrics of Simon Fowler & Ocean Colour Scene at ourfavourite.shopFind out more in the show notes for this podcast on my website and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What a delight to be joined by another huge talent - the Singer, Songwriter & Musician, Edgar Jones for this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast... Also known as Edgar 'Summertyme' Jones, his musical path began in the early 90s, as frontman and founder of Liverpool band The Stairs, championed by the likes of Elvis Costello and signed to Go! Discs, then also the home of future collaborators Paul Weller and The La’s.His other bands include The Isrites, The Big Kids, Edgar Jones & The Joneses and Free Peace. His 2005 solo album Soothing Music For Stray Cats was released to critical acclaim with Noel Gallagher commenting "It bent my head, man. It’s probably one of the best records I have ever heard" and Mojo Magazine labelling it "A stunning collection of rock’n’roll, jazz, R&B and doo wop".Edgar has also played and toured with artists including Ian McCulloch, Saint Etienne and Ocean Colour Scene and of course, our podcast subject - Paul Weller.Edgar joined the Weller band to play bass for the Heliocentric tour in 2000 - including a very special performance at London's Royal Albert Hall - which featured Steve White and Steve Cradock, along with Edgar on bass and Chris Holland on keyboards. Legendary arranger, Robert Kirby also conducted a stunning 16-piece string orchestra, which accompanied the band on most songs. The performance was released as a 90-minute filmed performance on DVD.Edgar was also part of the band for the Jools Holland Lennon Special and a recording for The Who Tribute album...Find out more in the show notes for this podcast on my website and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I am joined by another hugely successful musician - Steve Sidelnyk. A man whose Honorary Councillor status led him to work with some of the world's biggest music stars.A drummer, percussionist, programmer and producer who has created music and / or played live with the likes of Madonna, Robbie Williams, Kylie, Dido, The Blow Monkeys, Richard Ashcroft, R.E.M., Seal, The Rolling Stones, David Gray, Tina Turner, The Family Silver and Stone Foundation… not a bad list right?.We hear about his Ukrainian heritage to joining Tracie Young’s Soul Squad and playing with The Style Council on tour, on record, at Live Aid and around the world…And that incredible music career CV too!Find out more in the show notes for this podcast on my website and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve followed the music of Paul Weller as a solo artist over the past 30 years then the odds are pretty high that you will have also experienced and enjoyed the photography of my latest podcast guest, Lawrence Watson.Their working relationship started in 1988, with a chance opportunity for Lawrence to photograph The Style Council. Paul was impressed with his photography, so much so that the work was used for the Confessions of a Pop Group album cover.Some of the most iconic imagery of Paul's solo career comes via Lawrence - live shots inside the debut album - that unmistakable cover for the Wild Wood album... or Modern Classics or Heliocentric or As Is Now... and so much more...In fact, 800 images were selected for their book Into Tomorrow in 2015, which gives you an idea of how much access Lawrence has had over the years.Find out more in the show notes for this podcast on my website and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast, we hear the story of a man known on your Style Council sleeve notes as Jezar - who's actually Jeremy Murray-Wakefield.From a random beginning, meeting John Weller and joining Solid Bond Studios in 1984 as a junior assistant for Peter Wilson to keyboard sequencing on Our Favourite Shop through to his promotion to Chief Engineer for elements of The Cost of Loving and on the Confessions of a Pop Group album.We hear the studio secrets of Solid Bond from the original analogue equipment to the transformation to digital, heaps of creativity and trying new things, experimentation and the creation of those songs that we know and love.We hear about Jezar's "epic fail" and something that effected the course of his life in many ways and his switch of career after TSC - following some advice from John Weller - and how the vast majority of this life since has been focused on the usability of technology.Please share on your social media channels, leave a review and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This bonus episode of the podcast comes on album release day for Paul Weller's Will of the People boxset. A follow up to 2003's 'Fly On the Wall' and takes the listener through a similar mix of rarities, this time spanning the period 2002 to 2021. Like its predecessor not only does it make for some great listening but it's a superb way to hear all those hard to get solo tracks that haven't been featured on an album before.This collection has been compiled by Paul Weller himself and Paul has provided artwork ideas and sketches for the design. Alongside this Paul has written track-by-track sleeve notes.The release includes additional sleeve notes from writer and broadcaster John Wilson who is my special guest on this bonus edition of the podcast...We also hear about the upcoming Sir Peter Blake Celebration at London's Royal Festival Hall, curated by Paul and compered by John which has just been announced for 3rd December 2022.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s a huge honour to be able to bring you this podcast chat as I’m joined by The Jam legend, Bruce Foxton.A man whose bass lines, and style of playing, are amongst some of the most recognisable on the planet. Often identifiable after just a few notes.Down at the Tube Station at Midnight, In The Crowd, The Eton Rifles, Funeral Pyre, Pretty Green, Going Underground... I could easily go on...We hear how he joined the band - a line up of Paul Weller, Rick Buckler and Steve Brookes in 1974 and his viewpoint on the band's incredible journey through live gigs and studio recordings to their huge success and, quite rightly, a whole heap of moments that he is massively proud of.We also get the story of the band's split in 1982 from his point of view and the subsequent recording and release of his first solo album - Touch Sensitive - in 1984.I was lucky enough to be in the audience when Bruce joined Paul Weller’s solo show in 2010 for a very special night at London’s Royal Albert Hall so hearing the story of the reconnection of their friendship after so many years of no communication was fascinating.We also chat about From The Jam and the new Bruce Foxton and Russell Hastings album The Butterfly Effect which is set for release on Friday October 28th. You can order at foxtonandhastings.tmstor.esPlease share on your social media channels, leave a review and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a chat full of wonderful memories and curveballs that I know you’re going to love, as I’m joined former political editor of The Sunday Times - David Cracknell. David is not only a huge Paul Weller fan who has been inspired by our podcast subject for so much of his life but he’s also taken Dee C Lee to Prime Minster Questions and here’s the thing - he played piano on a single by Gabrielle and Paul Weller called Why. The story of which we will discover in our chat.Please share on your social media channels, leave a review and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, my special guest is the multi-award-winning British songwriter and musician, Paul Barry. Paul formed his first band The Questions whilst at high school in Edinburgh in the summer of 1977 and a few years later, the band were supporting The Jam and signing to Paul Weller's Respond Record Label before hitting the road with their own shows and as part of the live Respond and Style Council shows.Whist the band didn't enjoy Top 40 success - they did sell tens of thousands of records and were hugely popular with live audiences too. Paul co-wrote (with John Robinson) The House That Jack Built which was a Top 10 single for Tracie Young.Over the past 30 years as a songwriter, Paul has had huge success with smash-hit singles for Cher, Enrique Iglesias and James Bay. He's also written for and with the likes of Celine Dion, Tina Turner, Rod Stewart, Lionel Richie, Mica Paris, Ricky Martin and James Morrison (and exclusive reveal of a Paul Weller link in our chat!).Find out more info in the shownotes for this podcast at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-116-paul-barryIf you enjoy this episode of the podcast - please share on your social media channels - and leave a review and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I’m joined by another absolute legend of the music industry - this fella has undoubtedly been one of the best TV and Radio pluggers in the business - Nigel “Spanner” Sweeney.We're talking U2, Rolling Stones, Simply Red, The Cure, Depeche Mode, UB40, Erasure, Robert Palmer, Bros, East 17, Jamiroquai, Elvis Costello, Janet Jackson, George Michael, Massive Attack, Kylie Minogue, Aerosmith, M People, Neneh Cherry, Kenny Thomas, Liza Minelli, Fun Boy 3, Nine Inch Nails, Shane McGowan / Johnny Depp, Robert Miles, Terry Hall, Dave Stewart, Tom Jones, Louise Redknapp, Malcolm McClaren, Spandau Ballet, S’Express, Bomb The Bass, Innocence, Garth Brookes, Will Young, Gareth Gates, Five and Betty Boo. Whilst with Arista there was also Prince, Santana, Puff Daddy, TLC, Toni Braxton, Whitney Houston, Usher and Annie Lennox...A pretty incredible list right?! We should also call out PR for The Brits, all the Comic Relief singles and the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute Concert in 1988.We dig in to some great stories of his career including times starting out with the likes of Clive Banks and Gary Crowley, to plugging for The Jam and The Style Council along with a lovely connection for the comeback single Into Tomorrow with Paul Weller Solo…We also chat about Live Aid and Do They Know It's Christmas with involvement from Paul.And so much more...If you enjoy this episode of the podcast - please share on your social media channels - and leave a review and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When I first started this podcast, I created a wish-list of potential guests. You would too right?.It's fair to say that Billy Bragg was one of those early entries in my notebook.A musician, author, broadcaster and left-wing activist who fronted the 1980s Red Wedge movement with, among others, Paul Weller. He'a also pretty active as a gigging musician, touring the world, and so tying him down to a recording was always going to be pretty tricky.Here's the other thing that I should mention... On the release of this podcast, Billy is actually the only guest to come on who I have actually interviewed in my former life as a radio presenter. It was one of my absolute career highlights when working at the BBC in the late nineties.He's a hugely talented singer and songwriter.To Have and To Have Not, The Milkman of Human Kindness, Levi Stubbs' Tears, Sexuality, A New England, You Woke Up My Neighbourhood, Between The Wars, We Laughed... I could go on... Billy continues to surprise and delight with his music, to my ears he never seems to repeat himself and much like Paul, is looking to try new things and push himself into new ways of working and creating music.We kick off our chat with his love of The Jam and the influence the band and Paul's lyrics had him as a young man.You'll hear about supporting The Style Council on an early Council Meeting tour to the Red Wedge project where you'll hear there is nothing but warmth and gratitude for Paul's input and collaboration throughout.We'll also chat about connections from the solo years from Go Discs label mates in the nineties to Jools Holland Later TV around A Kind Revolution for Paul and Billy's book Roots, Radicals and Rockers: How Skiffle Changed the World.Most of all throughout our hour-long conversation, you'll hear a man who respects Paul - as a fellow singer / songwriter - as an innovator and as a huge musical talent with an incredible work ethic, vision and back catalogue.Find out more in the show notes for this podcast at Paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-114-billy-braggIf you enjoy this episode of the podcast - please share on your social media channels - and leave a review and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From growing up in Long Island, USA to picking up the sticks aged 4 to guesting with the Mercer Ellington orchestra at just 13 years old, to playing with Chuck Berry and then coming to London in the 1980s - it's fair to say that Jo Ruocco has had a pretty incredible journey in life.Her connection with Paul Weller kicks in with the final stages of The Style Council's 4th studio album Confessions of a Pop Group. At the time, Steve White had just left the band for The Jazz Renegades and Steve Sidelnyk had moved stateside (more on his incredible story in a future podcast...) - cut to a memorable answerphone message for Little Jo from Paul...Recording shortly afterwards at Solid Bond, you can hear Jo on drums and percussion for How She Threw It All Away and on the album closer Confessions of a Pop Group.The release of the 1234 EP in 1988 led with How She Threw It All Away for promo, but was billed as 'A Summer Quartet' - You can also hear Jo as part of The Mixed Companions playing I Do Like To Be B-Side The A-Side (written by Mick Talbot) and on Love For The First Time.Find out more in the show notes for this podcast at Paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-113-little-jo-ruoccoIf you enjoy this episode of the podcast - please share on your social media channels - and leave a review and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My guest on this episode is the absolute legend that is Gered Mankowitz - he is the photographer who created the enduring and defining image of the rock star as we know it today.Inspired to take up photography by the comedian Peter Sellers, Gered opened his first studio in 1963. Finding himself at the centre of Swinging London, he soon established himself as one of the most prominent music photographers on the scene. His portfolio showcases striking and beautiful photographs from the 1960s to the 2000s, encompassing the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix , Small Faces, Marianne Faithfull, P.P. Arnold, Led Zeppelin, Eurythmics, Kate Bush, Oasis and many others. Check out his collection here.There are two links with Paul Weller. The photograph for the cover of The Jam's second album This Is The Modern World and a lovely shot for an advert for Vox Amps with The Style Council... In 2016 Gered was awarded the distinction of a Fellowship of The Royal Photographic Society.Find out more about Gered at mankowitz.com and check out my show notes at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-112-gered-mankowitzIf you enjoy this episode of the podcast - please share on your social media channels - and leave a review and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My guest on this episode is David Pottinger - a young Modernist from Middlesbrough and one of the fellas behind the brilliant Move on Up Blog. The website was created with his childhood best friend Graham Barber, with a desire to contribute to the scene and write about their passions of football, clothing and music.We chat about his love of The Jam and Paul Weller and his crazy Summer of 2015, and the events that led to a then-20-year-old-David getting to interview Paul Weller for the About The Young Idea TV Documentary!.Find out more at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-111-david-pottingerIf you enjoy this episode of the podcast - please share on your social media channels - and leave a review and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A different kind of episode this week with The Jam drummer, Rick Buckler.This recording was taken from a Q&A event in August 2022 at St Peters, Brighton for the This is the Modern World exhibition...Rick was one-third of the powerhouse sound of The Jam along with Paul Weller and Bruce Foxton. The band had 18 consecutive UK Top 40 singles from their debut in 1977 to their break-up in December 1982, including four No 1 hits.Find out more in the show notes for this podcast at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-110-rick-buckler-part2If you enjoy this episode of the podcast - please share on your social media channels - and leave a review and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve Pilgrim - drummer, singer & songwriter joins me on this episode of the podcast.Another huge talent from the Paul Weller band.Paul is quoted as saying on Steve: "One of the great understated modern songsmiths. I love Pilgrims voice, his lyrics, his sense of melody. I hope people get to hear his music, it’s really something special”Ex-The Stands, Cast, John Power and John Head, Steve joined the Paul Weller band in 2008 for the 22 Dreams tour ( following on from drumming legends Steve White and Rick Buckler when you think about it! - something that we discuss on the podcast).Steve has been a key fixture of the band ever since. Both live behind the kit - touring the world multiple times - and on record from Wake Up The Nation through to Fat Pop.As Andy Lewis said on the podcast, "Steve is a better singer-songwriter than he is a drummer, and he's a fantastic drummer..."Our podcast begins with a text from Paul Weller that was the only inspiration Steve Pilgrim needed to finish the writing of his much-anticipated sixth album ‘Beautiful Blue’...Find out more in the show notes for this podcast with a very special Pilgrim Playlist at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-109-steve-pilgrimIf you enjoy this episode of the podcast - please share on your social media channels - and leave a review and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/storeFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.