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My latest podcast guest – Scottish singer and songwriter, Dot Allison made a welcome return to music in 2021, after taking some time out to raise a family, with the beautifully brilliant Heart-Shaped Scars – an album which included "Very special thanks" to a wide variety of people including our podcast subject matter – Paul Weller! Her new album featured in Paul's list of favourites from 2021, and also has a few stunning string arrangements & conducting from Weller alumni (and Podcast Episode 57 guest) Hannah Peel, which is another lovely connection that we dig into during our chat. Our podcast conversation hears how she first connected with Paul via a text out of the blue… "‘I’m with Bobby Gillespie. He’s given me your number. He says you’re good, do you fancy writing a song together?" and the collaboration that followed was a song called Love's Got Me Crazy – recorded at Black Barn Studio (Paul Weller HQ) for Dot's album Room 7½ in 2009. We also dive into her career, her return to music, we talk nature (and human destruction) and so much more… You can find more info on Dot's music in my show notes at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-92-dot-allison Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) or our new official merchandise at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store

Ernie McKone is a UK-based bass player, producer and tutor whose speciality is jazz, funk, Latin and soul. With so many connections to Paul Weller and the likes of Mick Talbot, Steve White, Carleen Anderson, Jacko Peake and Matt Deighton over the past 30 plus years – there are some great stories to dig into. In 1997, Ernie joined the Paul Weller live band – taking over from Yolanda Charles – and he toured Europe and the UK for a couple of years around the release of the album Heavy Soul. The Victoria Park gig of 1998 has been captured on film (YouTube link below) and the audio was released as a limited edition bonus Live Classics CD with Paul's first solo greatest hits – Modern Classics. More recently Ernie has remixed one of the many stand out tracks from the Paul Weller album Fat Pop – with October 2021 seeing the release of Glad Times (Soul Steppers) – Remixed by Boogie Back. He also did a stonking version of Stone Foundation's Deeper Love (which featured Paul on vocals) with a Late Night Jazz Funk Mix. You can find more info in my show notes at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-91-ernie-mckone Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop Ernie’s track record also includes work with Sister Sledge, Galliano, Incognito, PUSH, Seal, Leon Ware, Reuben Wilson, Fred Wesley, Pee Wee Ellis, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Marlena Shaw, Urban Species, Reel People and Craig Charles Fantasy Funk Band. Ernie also runs Boogie Back Records – an underground label that releases jazz funk and street soul. Artists who have appeared on the label include Omar, The Valentine Brothers, Vivienne McKone (his sister who also played keys with The Style Council for a time), Max Beesley, Mica Paris and more… Ernie played with Galliano in the early nineties – performing on the brilliant albums In Pursuit of the 13th Note, A Joyful Noise unto the Creator and The Plot Thickens. In 1993, he played bass on the Talbot & White album – United States of Mind.  

Barrie Cadogan is not only one of the most talented and well-respected guitarists around, having played with Primal Scream, Johnny Marr, The The, Steve Mason, Texas and, of course, Paul Weller – he also fronts his own band – Little Barrie. A classic British power trio in the lineage of Cream and The Jimi Hendrix Experience, Little Barrie started off as a solo guise for Barrie, using the nickname given to him aged 14 by a mate’s dad in Nottingham.  The band first supported Paul Weller in 2002 – with gigs including the Birmingham NEC and Hyde Park's Route of Kings. He's played on 22 Dreams, Wake Up The Nation and True Meanings whilst also joining the Weller live line up on numerous occasions for gigs and radio sessions. Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

Steve ‘Tufty’ Carver is my very special guest on this episode – recorded in front of a live audience at London's Cockpit Theatre. Woking born and bred, Steve has been friends with Paul Weller, Bruce Foxton, and Rick Buckler for over 45 years. Known to everyone as Tufty – he calls himself ‘a friend, fan and eventually a "roadie" with The Jam’, and shares plenty of stories – from watching his mates going from playing gigs in Woking to Wembley, to the World. To quote Tufty "I will never every say that is was nothing really. It was everything. Life changing moments!" Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

In this episode, recorded in front of a live audience at London's Cockpit Theatre, my guest is the Legendary broadcaster, TV presenter, journalist, A&R man, promoter and DJ – Gary Crowley. We dig in to his love of The Jam as a teenager to the creation of his own fanzine, interviews with Paul and Mick for The Style Council to Capital, GLR & XFM studio sessions and plenty of stories from his 40 year long radio & TV career. Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

Hear my exclusive chat with musician Andy Crofts from the Paul Weller Band just hours ahead of their support slot with Madness at London's Royal Albert Hall and days before they head out on tour across England & Scotland. We also chat about the beautiful abstract painting that he has created, in light of the crisis in Ukraine, and the auction to raise money for War Child. Entitled, The Resistance, the piece is painted on a 1.5m x 1m framed canvas using acrylic and draws on the Ukrainian flag as inspiration. Growing up as an only child in Northampton, Andy was drawn into his own imagination and has also been painting and creating art his whole life. Now, the musician has set up an online auction for ‘The Resistance’ and is encouraging art lovers who connect with the piece to throw their support behind it. All proceeds will go to War Child’s work with children affected by recent events in Ukraine. Find out more at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/warchild-auction

With Paul Weller and his band heading out on their latest tour in a matter of days, it's a real delight to be joined by one of the current line up – singer-songwriter, musician & keys player for PW – Tom Van Heel. Tom's entry into the crew is one of my favourite stories yet – what a magical experience he's had so far. We chat Saturns Pattern through to Fat Pop – live in the U.K., Europe, USA, Canada and Australia… Find out more with links to songs and videos that Tom has played on – including his own band – Higher Peaks on my website http://www.paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

Episode 86 hears from legendary booking agent Martin Hopewell – a man who was a key part of the Weller set up for 28 years from The Jam in 1977 to The Style Council to Weller solo – right through to Studio 150. From smaller boutique agency Cowbell through to World Service which became part of the mega super agency Primary Talent… Listen for some amazing stories from the chaos of a punk festival in Paris to life on the road with gigs around the U.K. and Europe – to Japan and Australia – and a massive appreciation of Paul’s incredible work ethic. We also hear about his huge love and appreciation for the Weller family and special memories of John Weller, Paul's dad and manager who sadly passed away in 2009. Visit my website for more information at paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

It was a sheer delight to welcome actor and musician, Max Beesley onto The Paul Weller Fan Podcast. What a talent! – piano, vibes, drums and percussion – song-writing – production – and a successful TV & movie acting career to boot!. The Paul Weller Movement kicks off… Even though he was just 18 at the time, Max played a key part in those early days of Paul's solo career with The Paul Weller Movement. He performed live as part of the band across the UK and Europe in 1990/91. Surely I'm not the only one who managed to wear out a VHS copy of the Brixton Academy show because I played it so often?!. I've posted a link to that gig below as it's so very special to me – amazing songs and performances all round. Funky as hell too!. It was recorded on 20th April 1991, a whole year before Paul's first solo album was released in Japan (18 months in the UK). The gig features Steve White on drums, Jacko Peake on saxophone and flute, Henry Thomas on bass and Max Beesley on keys and vibes. Into Tomorrow, Kosmos & playing on the Wild Wood LP Cast your mind back to 6th May 1991. The first solo single… Into Tomorrow was released – and Paul was back!. Recorded at Solid Bond in February, this absolute banger has Weller on vocals, bass, guitars and percussion. Steve White is on drums, Dr. Robert (The Blow Monkeys) on guitar (and BV) with Max on the organ. He also mentions on the podcast about recording Kosmos during that session too. Next time you are digging in to your Weller albums – check out Wild Wood to hear Max performing extra vocals with Marco Nelson on Has My Fire Really Gone Out? and playing wurlitzer on Moon on Your Pyjamas (a song that Paul wrote for his eldest son, Nat). New Music – Song for Sabrina + Omar + Weller Solo? As you'll hear during our chat, Max has been working with Paul again in recent years. We hear about a very special collaboration called Song for Sabrina on his own soon-to-be-released solo album – The Groove Spectrum, working with his old Guildhall mate (and previous podcast guest) Omar in Paul's studio for his new LP and even recording some late night grooves with Paul at Black Barn that will hopefully turn up in the future. What a Roll Call… As a session musician, Max played, toured or recorded with the likes of Incognito, Jamiroquai, Robbie Williams, Omar, Brand New Heavies, George Benson, Stevie Wonder, The JB's and Zero7. As an actor, he has starred in many hugely successful TV series – The History of Tom Jones, Bodies, Hotel Babylon, Mad Dogs, Jamestown and The Outsider. In 2022, you'll be able to see Max starring alongside Keeley Hawes in Sky TV sci-fi thriller The Midwich Cuckoos and in Guy Ritchie's new movie Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre with Hugh Grant, Jason Statham, Aubrey Plaza and Josh Hartnett. Spoiler alert, you can also see Max on screen during the Paul Weller video On Sunset – with a little cameo appearance at the end on the promo film. Visit my website for more links on all the things that we talk about at paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

On Episode 84 of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I am joined by singer, musician, activist & campaigner, Rhoda Dakar. We hear how her career began as lead vocalist with all female 2Tone band, The Bodysnatchers in 1979 and kick off the podcast with a great Paul Weller connection through The Jam and Rhoda being banned from seeing them live in concert in the late 70s / early 80s!. We hear about Red Wedge in the mid-eighties where Rhoda became Chair of the Steering Group, whilst making guest appearances on stage alongside the likes of Paul Weller, Billy Bragg, Dr, Robert, Lorna Gee, Junior Giscombe and The Communards. Rhoda also reveals all about recording a brilliant EP of songs at Black Barn (PW HQ) in 2017 called The LoTek Four, Vol I. Heck, we even hear another angle on the famous 'Mick Talbot gets left at motorway service station' story! Find more about Rhoda's music on Bandcamp here and live dates & tickets for Rhoda on tour here Visit my website for more links on all the things that we talk about at paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

My latest podcast guest is Tracie! AKA Tracie Young. The singer, 80s popstar, TV Presenter & Radio Broadcaster talks about 80s hairdos, The Jam, The Style Council, Respond Records, her solo career, touring and recording with Paul Weller along with the truth behind the second album that lay in the vaults for over 25 years. Big thanks to Mr Cool's Dream – Iain Munn for his great book for help with the research too. Visit my website for more links on all the things that we talk about at paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

Omar is without doubt, one of the greatest soul music talents the UK has produced in the last 35 years. He's a genuinely unique artist, with a sound of his own that is so immediately identifiable, that you will know you are hearing an Omar track within seconds – the stamp of true originality. In this latest episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, we hear about his musical DNA, the special letters that now sit after his name (MBE FGS!), we talk about how it all began with his first single in 1985, Mr Postman (recorded when he was just 16 years old !) to an invite from Paul Weller to join The Style Council for shows in Japan and at the Royal Albert Hall, and the track that changed everything for Omar when re-released in 1990 – There's Nothing Like This. We also hear about the making of his new album – including tracks created with Paul Weller at Black Barn Studio (music that’s going to make you want to buy a parka and a Vespa!). Find my blog for more links on all the things that we talk about at paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

My latest guest is Roger Nowell, Head Roadie / Guitar Tech for Paul Weller, a man who has been part of the crew since 1999. We talk about The Jam, playing with Paul on record, and travelling all over the world looking after his guitars and those live performances. Incredibly, I joined Roger at Paul Weller HQ – Black Barn Studio in Surrey – at the end of their 2021 tour – a tour that came to an early close, due to Covid, back in December 2021. You can also hear Roger in his own band Skeletal Family, who were one of the most influential groups of the eighties Gothic era, with a worldwide fan base spanning all ages and on Paul Weller releases playing Synth Bass on the WUTN track Andromeda and Bass on Sonik Kicks track Around the Lake. Find my blog and links for all the things that we talk about at paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

On this episode I’m joined by the fabulous force of nature that is Nicole Nodland. Not only was she personal photographer to global superstar – Prince – living at Paisley Park, touring the world with the band and documenting his life on photo and film – but her portfolio including icons such as Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, George Clinton and more recent artists such as Lana Del Ray, Sam Smith and Dua Lipa. Nicole entered the world of Paul Weller around True Meanings, taking that super cool shot for the album cover and she worked with Paul through Other Aspects and On Sunset… we talk about that and of course the mega talent that was Prince… Her clients include Gucci, Vogue, Elle, Billboard, Virgin Records, Sony, Universal, and Warner Music to name a few. Her photography has featured in the British Journal of Photography, Zoo and Graphics International. Find my blog and links for all the things that we talk about on my website paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I am joined by another music industry legend Eddie Piller. Not only is he the Founder & MD of the magnificent Acid Jazz Records but he's also a Radio Presenter, Writer, DJ, Podcaster, Producer, Manager and Festival Curator. A legendary figure in the Mod scene and beyond, he was also the man that Paul Weller turned to play records at his fiftieth birthday party!. In this episode, we kick off the conversation with his discovery of punk and The Jam via chicken pox. Eddie would go on to see the band over 50 times live, following them all over the country and even overseas whilst still a teenager. We'll hear about the mod explosion of the late 70s and 80s, interviews with Paul, a shared love of music, clothes and Mod and other connections over the years from the controversial King Truman Project, to a missed opportunity to bring him to his record label and how he secured the big one – that two part 2019 Modcast Interview with PW. Find all the blogs and links for all the things that we talk about on my website paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

In this episode I’m joined by Grammy Award winner, Singer, Songwriter, Producer – one of the pioneers of U.K. soul music – Junior Giscombe… We dig in to some great Weller connections from The Council Collective single Soul Deep to Red Wedge to joining The Style Council at Wembley and his own impressive back catalogue.  Find out more with links to videos, albums and the blog at http://www.paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

Tom Doyle is an acclaimed music journalist, author, and long-standing contributor to music magazines Mojo and Q. His work has also appeared in Billboard, The Guardian, The Times, and Sound on Sound. Over the years, he has been responsible for some great interviews with Paul Weller along with key magazine profiles of Paul McCartney, Elton John, Yoko Ono, Keith Richards, U2, Madonna, Kate Bush, and R.E.M., among many other artists. As part of White Label – he has collaborated with Paul on various special releases over the past 6 years. We'll hear about remixes for tracks off the album's Saturns Pattern and A Kind Revolution along with co-writes for a song on each of the albums – True Meanings and Fat Pop (Volume 1). Find out more at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

Chris Parry was, once, the drummer of New Zealand band The Fourmyula who went on to work for Polydor in the UK – going on to sign The Jam in February 1977. Chris first saw the band on 22nd January 1977, where they supported Bearded Lady at The Marquee in London (after Shane MacGowan had told him to check them out!). The band were signed for a £6,000 advance and 6% royalty rate which initially covered only the group's first single, but Polydor quickly exercised an option to extend the contract to four years and four albums. Chris has co-producer credits with Vic Smith on the first 2 albums along with the singles that came outside those album cycles – All around the World in 1977 and News of the World in 1978. For All Mod Cons – the 3rd Album – Chris had Associate Producer credits on To Be Someone (Didn't We Have A Nice Time), David Watts, It's Too Bad and 'A' Bomb in Wardour Street. In 1978, he left The Jam set up to create and run his own record label – Fiction Records – and signed The Cure (after hearing a demos of ‘10.15 on Saturday Night’ and ‘Boys Don’t Cry’). He managed The Cure until 1988 and Fiction released their music until 2001, when he sold the label to Universal Records. Another couple of nice Weller related connections – in 1984, Chris produced an album by Tim Pope – Director of multiple music videos for The Style Council and was also MD of Radio Station – XFM from 1992-1998 with an amazing line up including Steve Lamacq, Mary Anne Hobbs, Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant, Zane Lowe and Gary Crowley Session (Paul did a session on that show in 1997). Find out more at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

My latest guest is Honorary Councillor – Barbara Snow – a widely respected and popular vocalist, trumpeter, pianist, composer and arranger, who has also established a significant reputation as an educator of some note. She now teaches the piano at Royal Russell School, Croydon. Barbara played trumpet in the live band for the debut tour in October 1983 – small venues in Europe as warm ups prior to bringing it over to the UK – also playing trumpet on the single version of My Ever Changing Moods and on the Café Bleu LP for four tracks – Me Ship Came In, Dropping Bombs on the Whitehouse, A Gospel and Headstart for Happiness. Barbara studied at the Royal Academy of Music, and has played in African, reggae and salsa bands; jazz and orchestral styles, and in between tours and recording has built up a teaching reputation with both piano and trumpet. She has devised a way to teach piano to very young children, which has been described as “revolutionary”. Find out more at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

My latest guest is Chris Bostock – a musician, songwriter and music producer, known for his work with JoBoxers, Subway Sect, Dave Stewart and the Spiritual Cowboys, The Style Council, Spear of Destiny, The X-Certs and The Stingrays.  As a Honorary Councillor, he played on Café Bleu – the official debut album released by The Style Council – playing on Here’s One That Got Away and double bass on The Paris Match with Tracey Thorn on vocals. After 35 years off the scene – JoBoxers are back with plenty of live dates in 2022 – I've added all the info to my website PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

My latest podcast guest – Camelle Hinds was an Honorary Councillor from January 1985 – playing bass in The Style Council band on tour and on the LPs from Our Favourite Shop through to the final rejected Modernism LP. We'll hear about special memories of that time – including Live Aid and the famous 3 nights at Wembley, with a 15 piece string section, that was captured on film for the Showbiz video. When Paul Weller returned as a solo artist, Camelle joined the live band – and also contributed to a couple of songs on the first LP with credits on Round & Round and Kosmos (Backing Vocals). He also played on the recording of All Year Round (Live) which was the B-Side to Above the Clouds. Find out more about Camelle and his career at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

Derek D Souza started taking photos of Paul Weller over 40 years ago – snapping The Jam at various gigs and soundchecks before the famous shoot at Chiswick House in London. Attending concerts across London, he would smuggle his kit in and take photos at every opportunity, sending the best ones in to their fan club. His photographs, taken with a low-budget, manual camera from the midst of crowds in low-lit venues, caught the attention of Paul Weller. Two years later, Paul’s mum, Ann contacted Derek and he was commissioned to take photos for the band’s 1981 single “Absolute Beginners”. One of Derek’s images from that day has even been added to the National Portrait Gallery’s collection. Take a listen to hear about his love of The Jam and how he captured photographs of the band from the viewpoint of the crowd… And find out more at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop

My latest very special guest is Conor O Brien, otherwise known as the multi-award-winning singer-songwriter behind the band Villagers. We dig in to a love of Paul's music (and vice-versa) along with collaborations over the years from US tour support to The Black Barn Sessions and writing together for True Meanings – and even their recent performance together at The Roundhouse in London. Villagers latest LP – Fever Dreams – is an amazing piece of work too – well worth checking out. Find out more with links to the back catalogue, videos with Paul Weller and my blog about Villagers at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop  

I know… I can't believe it either! Kenny Wheeler has joined The Paul Weller Fan Podcast. What an absolute honour. A man who has been part of the Weller team for over 40 years now. First credited on album sleeve notes with The Jam on the Sound Affects LP (Special thanks to Ken for playing pool) – Kenny has been a constant with Paul from 1978 with The Jam to The Style Council and Weller solo – moving to credits as Tour Manager & PA by Heavy Soul and continuing through to now with 2021's Fat Pop. Kenny has never been interviewed by anyone before – so it's a real honour to be able to feature some of his stories on this podcast series.  We chat about the tours, the important of the fans, memorable gigs, travelling the world, the bands, the music business, friendships made, and of course – Paul and John Weller. Find out more at paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop  

My latest special guest is British Soul Singer / Legend – Steve Ellis. As lead singer with the 1960’s chart-topping Mod-Soul outfit Love Affair, Steve’s vocals had the kind of powerhouse range that made you sit up and notice. We'll hear stories from across his career along with performances with Paul Weller, and their great friendship (Steve talks about Paul being like a Brother to him, Paul says 'He's my mate and I love him dearly") and how they came to create an album together called Boom Bang Twang! Released in 2018 – it was a mix of new songs and covers, recorded at Black Barn (Weller HQ) with guests and long-time friends including Paul (who also produced the album) along for the ride. The album also has loads of lovely Weller connections – with band-members Andy Crofts, Ben Gordelier, Steve Pilgrim, Steve Cradock and Charles Rees (Black Barn Engineer) all playing on the LP. Dive in to the podcast to hear all about it – and head to my new website at paulwellerfanpodcast.com to find out more, with links to the songs, videos and album that we talk about in the podcast. Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop  

My latest guest is the multi-award-winning writer and director, Sonja Phillips. Based in London and Los Angeles, her work encompasses short drama, documentaries, as well as a variety of commercial and promo films, working on large and small screen, and covering a diverse range of subjects, from the natural world to fashion. Back in 1995, with Paul Weller back at the top of the charts with the Stanley Road LP, Sonja directed two music videos that would go on to be amongst his most watched – You Do Something To Me and Broken Stones. Find out more about Sonja and her work on my new website at paulwellerfanpodcast.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee (£3) at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/shop  

This episode was a massive thrill to record as I'm joined by Andy Crofts – a who has been part of the Paul Weller band since 2008!. Musician, singer-songwriter, photographer, he's got a weekly radio show, he's a record label boss, heck he's even made music videos for Paul and created an outstanding Weller film-documentary called One. Andy is also the founding member of the fabulous indie-band The Moons who released their own fabulous album – Pocket Melodies – in 2020 too. Back in September Andy announced that he would have to stay home this winter to care for his family rather than head out on tour with Paul and co. MORE INFO BOOK – Paul Weller: Photographs by Andy Crofts – thisdayinmusicbooks.com/product/paul-weller PHOTOS – andycroftsphotography.com COLORAMA RECORDS – http://www.coloramarecords.com/releases ONE – PAUL WELLER – Documentary – On YouTube Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi https://ko-fi.com/paulwellerfanpodcast Buy our official pin badge here – https://thisisnow.design/products/dsp_01-desperately-seeking-paul-enamel-pin  

Episode 66 hears from the fabulous David Lines – writer and creator of the brilliant book – Modfather – My Life with Paul Weller When David first heard This is the Modern World by The Jam, it sparked off a love affair that continues to this day. Paul Weller became the blueprint for David's life, and he followed his music and his style with the fervour of a truly devoted fan – to the bemusement of his long-suffering family. In this episode, we hear stories behind the book's creation, including the Weller quote on the cover, along with his journey from The Jam to The Style Council to Paul Weller Solo and connections a plenty. Order the book online here  You can also discover more about Parasol – By David Lines and David Lawrie at parasolthealbum.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi https://ko-fi.com/paulwellerfanpodcast Buy our official pin badge here – https://thisisnow.design/products/dsp_01-desperately-seeking-paul-enamel-pin  

My latest guest is Peter Wilson – Record Producer, Recording Engineer, Arranger, Tutor and Lecturer. Pete has producer credits on plenty of songs towards the end of The Jam's career including Funeral Pure, Absolute Beginners, Town Called Malice, Beat Surrender and their final album The Gift. He also arranged strings on The Bitterest Pill (I Ever Had To Swallow). When Paul Weller split the band and created The Style Council , it was Pete who worked with them on the early singles + À Paris EP and the first two albums – Café Bleu and Our Favourite Shop. Pete has also been responsible for pulling together live albums including Dig the New Breed and Live Jam. Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi https://ko-fi.com/paulwellerfanpodcast

My guest in this episode is the world-class musician, griot (praise singer), composer, djembe master, virtuoso and pioneer –  Seckou Keita – he's a rarity, seated in tradition whilst constantly pushing the boundaries of his art. A true master of the kora – a 22 stringed West African harp – Seckou, from Southern Senegal, was a childhood prodigy, born of a line of griots and kings. Seckou has graced the international stage since 1996, earning worldwide acclaim for his kora playing and appearing with a host of fellow artists including Paul Weller, Salif Keita, Damon Alban, Youssou N’Dour, Miriam Makeba and Neil Finn. It was whilst performing as part of the Africa Express Presents The Orchestra of Syrian Musicians in 2016, that he met Paul for the first time – playing a sensational version of Wild Wood as part of the concerts. In 2019, he won 'Musician of the Year' at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards – whilst also picking up the award for 'Best Duo/Band' with Catrin Finch. November 2020 saw the release of the On Sunset Remixes EP – with Seckou's beautiful remix of Rockets featuring as one of the 5 tracks. Seckou Keita has arguably become the most influential and inspiring Kora player of his generation, an exceptional and charismatic musician – find out more about his amazing music & collaborations at seckoukeita.com LINKS Seckou Keita with Paul Weller on Wild Wood – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bb9VKNe7o_U&ab_channel=AfricaExpress Seckou Keita / Paul Weller – Rockets Remix – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yS41iAH2xg&ab_channel=paulwellertv Find out more about Catrin Finch & Seckou Keita here and dive in to his new album Suba recorded during lockdown with Omar Sosa, one of Cuba's most prolific jazz pianists and the astounding percussionist Gustavo Ovalles. You can also see Africa in the Lounge featuring Seckou Keita here Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi https://ko-fi.com/paulwellerfanpodcast

In this episode, I am joined by Broadcaster & Journalist – John Wilson It's amazing to hear so many passionate stories of his love of The Jam (thanks Aunt Liz!) – it's an out-pouring of emotions, memories and envy inducing tales from a master story-teller! As one of the regular presenters of Front Row – the Radio 4 arts programme, John specialised in music-related interviews for the programme with the likes of Ray Davies, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, Elton John and Kate Bush – whilst also interviewing Paul Weller on many occasions on the show. In 2007, he worked with Paul to create the book Suburban 100 – which saw Paul share his reflections on his lyrics, offering candid insights to his writing process and the inspiration behind some of pop music's best loved songs.  In 2012 – Paul Weller guested on his Radio 4 Music Programme Mastertapes – discussing a career-defining album in front of a live audience (Paul selected The Gift) which also featured a previous podcast guest (Teenage Waitress – Daniel J Ash) In recent years, Paul has been a guest on John's 'These Three Songs' Podcast and John has returned the favour by interviewing him for the Making of True Meanings Documentary. LINKS This Cultural Life – Radio 4 – with John Wilson https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0010fl4 Paul Weller – Radio 4 – MasterTapes with John Wilson https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01ntfw1 https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b01nxh35 These Three Songs Podcast – Paul Weller https://shows.acast.com/thesethree/episodes/paulweller John Wilson with Paul Weller – The Jam Exhibition  https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p02vmtkr True Meanings – In Conversation with John Wilson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wY06Ic-xZTE   Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi https://ko-fi.com/paulwellerfanpodcast

My latest guest is life-long Weller fan Jon Abnett. Known as Mr Jam – he has contributed to the band's boxset releases and designed for some great band related books over the years including Thick As Thieves, In The Crowd and The Jam Unseen. His new book is From the Floorboards Up! A unique fans’ perspective photographic book following the icon that is Paul Weller. All the photos in this new book are from live events in the UK and overseas, taken from 1990 to 2019. Containing many unseen shots all taken by the fans! It’s a very unique book, with narrative by Pat Gilbert (MOJO), interviews with fans and reflections from some bands lucky enough to have supported Paul on tour during those 30 years. You can order at https://thisdayinmusicbooks.com/product/from-the-floorboards-up/ Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi https://ko-fi.com/paulwellerfanpodcast    

In this episode, we hear from Neil 'Twink' Tinnings. Commissioned by The Jam to be their official photographer in 1981, he not only captured them on stage, but also their life out of the public eye. To quote the band "Twink was the ideal photographer for The Jam. For him, it was more than just a job. His passion for the music and the whole vibe of that period made for a perfect working relationship. We knew him, he was easy to get along with and, importantly for us, Twink knew exactly what to look for. When we needed a photographer to come on the road with us – someone who could ‘access all areas’ and take candid fly-on-the-wall shots – we had no doubt that he was our man. Twink’s photographs appeared on the cover of The Jam’s platinum-selling final studio album The Gift. After photographing the band for press and promotional activity in their final, most successful year, Twink put his camera down for two decades. A sufferer of bi-polar disorder, Twink’s main occupation later in life has been as an ambassador for mental health awareness in the press and media, using his photography to de-stigmatise mental health issues.  You can watch his film – One Last Saloon – here – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbA5T9z2PEg And more about The Wellcome Trust here – https://wellcome.org/ Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

Declan O'Rourke has been a favourite of mine since hearing a recommendation from Paul Weller for the song Galileo (Someone Like You) and the debut album, Since Kyabram back in 2004. In our chat, we dig in to some incredible stories behind his songs and process from the move to Australia as a young man to his return to Ireland aged 24 and how he landed in the middle of a fiercely creative music scene in Dublin that was the fertile breeding ground for the likes of Glen Hansard/The Frames, Paddy Casey, Gemma Hayes, Damien Rice, Lisa Hannigan, and many more. It was a real highlight to also properly chat about his magical new LP – Arrivals – which was released in April 2021. The most emotionally raw and affecting album of his career, was recorded over six days at Paul Weller's HQ – Black Barn studios in Surrey, with Weller producing (‘he was there every moment, before, during and long after, discussing ideas about this and that, even down to the artwork. It was hugely impressive…’). The sound is stripped back to Declan’s soulful and resonant voice, the virtuosic acoustic guitar playing for which he’s renowned and only the occasional sparse arrangement of strings and late-night drums bringing colour and light to the LP’s 10 songs. Paul also adds his multi-instrumental abilities to the recordings, including a beautiful piano accompaniment to the closing track. Find out more about Declan – including tour dates, LP releases, newsletter sign up and his first novel – The Pawn Brokers Reward on his website declanorourke.com Enjoy the podcast – share it on social media – and then dive in to his sensational back-catalogue. 2004 – Since Kyabram 2007 – Big Bad Beautiful World 2011 – Mag Pai Zai 2015 – Gold Bars in the Sun 2016 – In Full Colour  2017 – Chronicles of the Great Irish Famine  2021 – Arrivals Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

In this episode I am joined by three Paul Weller Super-fans – collectively known as The Jam Tarts. Jane Griffiths, Jackie Pearce and Rachel Phillips (AKA Lady P) have a shared love of Paul's music and plenty of stories to tell from their discovery of the songs, to live performance, band meetings, Weller family connections and social media madness! You'll find them hanging out in the Weller of Woking Facebook Group here – https://www.facebook.com/groups/924166814731259 Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My guest this week is journalist and author Dylan Jones OBE who served as editor of the UK version of men's fashion and lifestyle magazine GQ from 1999-2021 – interviewing Paul Weller on many occasions. He created the annual GQ Men of the Year awards – which Paul won in 2018 and was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire in the 2013 Birthday Honours for services to the publishing and British fashion industries. As Chairman of the British Fashion Council for menswear he's spearheae the launch of  Dylan has written many books including  The Eighties: One Day, One Decade, which charts the story of the Eighties through Live Aid in 1985 – along with his 2021 publication "Shiny and New – Ten Moments of Pop Genius that Defined the '80s" MORE CONTENT In Conversation With Paul Weller – A brand new three-part podcast exploring life, music, fashion, politics & more – featuring GQ editor Dylan Jones. Paul Weller in conversation with Mary McCartney by Dylan Jones Paul Weller – Sunspel Interview by Dylan Jones Paul Weller – 2020 Interview by Dylan Jones Paul Weller – Royal Festival Hall Review – by Dylan Jones   Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My special guest this week is Hannah Peel – composer, artist, musician, arranger, producer, late night broadcaster and synth-pop pioneer! Not only is her own work an inspiring and ambitious blend of projects that will blow your musical mind but she also added her orchestration skills to Paul Weller's incredible recent albums True Meanings, On Sunset and Fat Pop. PLUS who can forget those incredible two gigs at Royal Festival Hall in 2018 that turned into the magnificent Other Aspects Live album? WOW! Find Hannah Peel's website at hannahpeel.com and her back catalogue to buy here  The Unfolding – Hannah Peel and Paraorchestra with Charles Hazlewood in Bristol on 1st October – tickets available – limited availability – here You can also listen on Spotify 2011: The Broken Wave 2016: Awake but Always Dreaming 2017: Mary Casio: Journey to Cassiopeia 2018: Particles in Space 2019: Chalk Hill Blue 2019: Game Of Thrones: The Last Watch 2020: The Deceived 2021: Fir Wave Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My latest special guest is the multi talented flutist and Sax player Jacko Peake. Dive in for stories of a love of The Jam to playing with Paul in the final days of The Style Council and the early 90s with The Paul Weller Movement to that incredible first solo album through to Wild Wood and playing live at various points over the years since then with Studio 150 and As Is Now. It was a lovely surprise to see Jacko back with the band for 2020's MID-SOMMER MUSIK – so we'll hear how that came about too! Listen to the podcast and then put on that swirling sax solo from Above The Clouds or the flute on Sunflower through to the beautiful sax & flute of Testify and Still Glides The Stream from 2021 LP – Fat Pop! Man oh Man – What a player! Watch Paul Weller – That Pleasure – Sunday Sessions here Watch Paul Weller – In Better Times with Jacko Peake and Josh McClorey here Studio 150 Live here Paul Weller Movement here   Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My special guest in this episode is musician / singer-songwriter Sam Brown! Sam has enjoyed huge international success as a solo artist since crashing the Top 10 with her song 'Stop' in the late 80s.  She's worked with some of the world's biggest music stars including Deep Purple, Gary Moore, George Harrison, Small Faces, Nick Cave and Tina Turner. Sam performed with Paul Weller at the Ronnie Lane: One for the Road Memorial Concert in 2001 and sang on his Studio 150 LP in 2004 and with Jools & Paul on the recording of Will It Go Round in Circles. In July 2006 Sam started to experience problems with her voice and her music career veered off in a completely different direction. Sam now teaches ukulele. She has over 150 pupils and teaches in Oxfordshire, under the Umbrella name of The Fabulous Ukulele Club. Links to Songs Jools & Sam with Paul Weller on Will It Go Round in Circles – Link Here Paul Weller – Studio 150 – Sam sings on All Along The Watchtower and Birds – Link here  Ronnie Lane Memorial Concert – The Poacher – Ooh La La – Spiritual Babe You can also find links to Sam Brown on Spotify here and Homespun here   Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

My latest guest is author Shaun Hand – the man behind the book – Pop Arts Poems – The Music of The Jam We learn about a lifetime's love affair with the band – kicking off in his teens in 1991 via their Greatest Hits LP. We take a trip through their albums as Shaun shares memories of tracing their evolution song-by-song – from pre-Polydor compositions to the classics that we know and love. Along the way we discover more about one of the most important bands of their time. Find out more – along with the link to the Weller Jukebox – at shaunpatrickhand.wordpress.com Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My latest guest is Steve Brookes – co-founder of The Jam with his childhood best mate Paul Weller. We talk about those early days of The Jam – writing songs, recording demos and gigging around Surrey. We find out why he left the band in September 1975 and took a long break from music and performing before his return in 2008. We chat about Steve's approach to music, his friendship with Paul and their work together in recent years. You can hear Steve playing on Paul's albums – 22 Dreams, Wake Up the Nation, Saturns Pattern, Jawbone, True Meanings, On Sunset and Fat Pop (Volume 1) so dive back in to those to spot his work! Order the new Steve Brookes CD – Tread Gently – which features Paul Weller & Ben Gordelier here 2017's Voodoo Zoo – here 2014's Vintage Troubadour – here The Ballad of Jimmy McCabe LIVE with Paul Weller and Steve Brookes on YouTube here Plus Steve's Channel on YouTube Thanks for listening – make sure that you subscribe / follow and leave a review – and if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My latest guest is film-maker Chris Green – writer and director of The Pebble and the Boy. Inspired by the Paul Weller album track, the film will be released in cinemas nationwide from Friday August 27, and available On Demand later in the year. The story of a boy, his Dad's ashes, a Lambretta scooter and a journey from Manchester to Brighton, the spiritual home of the Mods. The film features tracks from Paul Weller, The Jam, The Style Council, Secret Affair and The Chords – along with a nice surprise from our previous guest Aziz Ibrahim! Chris lives and breathes everything Mod – and that really shows – from the music, the fashion and the scooters. Watch The Pebble and the Boy Trailer Find out more about the film , including cinema listings on the Facebook page If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

My latest guest Aziz Ibrahim is another true delight – a creator of sound scapes, visionary sounds and guitar magic like very few people on this planet. Founder of the ‘Desi GuitR’ & the ‘Asian Blues’ – Aziz is known for his role & work as lead guitarist for Simply Red, The Stone Roses and several internationally acclaimed bands and artists including Ian Brown, Paul Weller, Steven Wilson, Asia, Rebel MC & Errol Brown (Hot Chocolate).  Aziz tells stories of meeting with Paul, forming a magical bond with him + Steve's White and Cradock, Mick Talbot and tales of creating fabulous music together. We hear about his solo work, which includes the lost LP Lahore To Longsight‘ and the EP ‘Middle Road‘ which both feature contributions from Paul Weller. If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi   To hear Aziz & Paul's Collaborations check out the links below… Aziz Ibrahim Website Middle Road – Lahore to Longsight Helioscentric – (B-Side to 'He's The Keeper') Illumination – Spring (At Last) – with Aziz on Sarod, Tambura [Electric] Illumination – All Good Books – with Aziz on guitar 22 Dreams – God – with Aziz on vocals Sonik Kicks – Sleep of the Serene (co written with Aziz) Sonik Kicks – By The Waters (co written with Aziz)

This week I am joined by a hardcore Paul Weller Fan who is so crazy about the live experience that he has created a new initiative called Love Weller Live. Steve Wheatley's first gig was 24 November 1979 – where The Jam had such a massive positive impact that he was hooked. Over 150 gigs later – The Jam, The Style Council and Paul Weller Solo – and that never-ending feeling of anticipation for the next one hasn't gone away! Find out more his special pin badges, mugs and more for Love Weller Live at thisisnow.design   If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

My latest guest is the magnificent singer-songwriter (and now published author!) Kathryn Williams. Kathryn has released eleven full-length albums under her own name (and more with various side-projects) since her debut LP, Dog Leap Stairs, was released in 1999. A massive Paul Weller fan herself – Kathryn's songs have also been called out by Paul as favourites over the years – with him picking the song Heart Shaped Stone in his top ten 45s in Mojo Magazine earlier this year. Kathryn tells stories of sharing the stage with Paul, visiting Black Barn Studio and a very special upcoming collaboration too (with one of my favourite stories so far on this podcast) along with the story of her career, inspirations and techniques to create those beautiful, heart-felt, honest songs. Check out Kathryn's amazing back catalogue at kathrynwilliams.co.uk and find her novel The Ormering Tide here   If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

My guest on this episode is Surrey Broadcaster / Legend – Peter Gordon AKA PG PG shares stories of a massive impact on his youth from The Jam – a shared love of the local area with the band – and stories of spending time with Paul, Bruce and Rick over the years for interviews, live gigs, unveilings and special friendships too. A permanent fixture on radio in the Surrey area for over 30 years, PG is probably best known for his 25 years with Eagle Radio, presenting the breakfast show and overseeing the station’s output for all that time – as well as being a director of the business. If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

My latest guest is known by Paul Weller as The General. Steve Trigg – Professional Trumpet Player, Performer, Arranger, Composer and Producer. We kick off with his love of The Jam and dive in to stories with Stone Foundation and playing with Paul at the Royal Albert Hall and on the Forest Tour 2019. Steve wrote, played and arranged the horn section on Paul Weller's Mother Ethiopia EP along with tracks on the Number One LPs – On Sunset ( Old Father Tyme & More) and Fat Pop (Volume 1) (True, Glad Times, Moving Canvas & Still Glides the Stream) and Fat Mix on the Deluxe version of the LP.   In 2016, Steve got a call to join Stone Foundation full time – just at the point that the band was about to head into the studio to record a new album produced by and featuring Paul Weller, so of course he jumped at the chance!   Check out Steve Trigg Live here   If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My guest is one of the UK’s finest, high-profile bass players, Dave Swift. He joined Jools Holland and His Rhythm and Blues Orchestra in 1991 and his career, which expands beyond three decades, boasts a musician’s portfolio that seconds no other – playing with an array of renowned artists, from George Benson and Chaka Khan to Adele, BB King, Hall & Oates, Noel Gallagher, Paul McCartney and Paul Simon along with the main man that we're all here to talk about Paul Weller! Paul has been on Later… with Jools Holland / Jools' Annual Hootenanny more than any other guest and many of his performances would be filed in the archive as iconic classics! Here are just a few… Paul Weller – Will It Go Round In Circles Jools Holland Hootenanny 1998 Dave Swift on Bass with Jools Holland backing Paul Weller "I Forgot to be your Lover" Amy Winehouse and Paul Weller – Don't go to strangers (at Hootenanny 2006) Listen to September in the Rain from The Golden Age of Song here To view all that huge list of lots of artists with whom Dave Swift has performed, click here.   If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My guest on this episode is John Harris – author, journalist and Paul Weller Super-fan! John was a key part of the music press in 90s – working at Sounds, Melody Maker, NME & Q Magazine before being named editor of Select. As a freelance writer John has written about music, politics and a wide variety of oher subjects for publications such as Rolling Stone, Mojo, The Independent, and New Statesmen. He has written many books including "The Last Party: Britpop, Blair and the demise of English rock" John has written notes of boxsets of The Jam – including the 40th anniversary set 1977 along with liner notes from The Jam: The Studio Recordings an 8LP heavyweight vinyl box set released in 2013. October 2021 sees the release of the book – The Beatles : Get Back – the first official standalone book to be released by The Beatles since international bestseller The Beatles Anthology. Edited by John Harris from original conversations between John, Paul, George and Ringo spanning three weeks of recording, culminating in The Beatles’ historic final rooftop concert. Find details at getback.thebeatles.com   If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

Neil Sheasby (AKA Brother Sheas) from Stone Foundation joins me for Episode 44. Sheas formed the British Modern Soul Group with Neil Jones back in 1997 (check out episode 26 for my chat with 'Jonesy'). Putting an English spin on a strong Stax influence, the seven piece outfit from the Midlands are leaders in the British modern soul scene. We hear all about Neil's love of The Jam, The Style Council and Paul Weller Solo (including nights with the Movement in the early 90s) and his take on becoming friends with, and working with Paul Weller in recent years. We also dive in to his wonderful memoir – Boys Dreaming Soul – a touching, funny and heart-warming read that documents Neil's formative years of the 1970s to his 1980s coming-of-age, through a tale of shared musical epiphany and a soul-searching ambition to perform. You can find the book at https://tonybeesleymodworld.co.uk/apps/webstore/products/show/7987453 Find out more about Stone Foundation Live and on Record at http://www.stonefoundation.co.uk If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My guest this week is the fabulous musician, turned award-winning author, Daniel Rachel. He wrote his first book, Isle of Noises: Conversations with Great British Songwriters after spending his twenties as the lead-singer in Rachels Basement. The book featured interviews with the likes of Paul Weller, Jimmy Page, Robin Gibb, Ray Davies, Annie Lennox, Noel Gallager and many more. His 2017 Book Walls Come Tumbling Down: the music and politics of Rock Against Racism, 2 Tone and Red Wedge – which won the Penderyn Music Book prize – charts the pivotal period between 1976 and 1992 that saw politics and pop music come together for the first time in Britain's musical history; musicians and their fans suddenly became instigators of social change, and 'the political persuasion of musicians was as important as the songs they sang'. The follow up in 2019 Don't Look Back in Anger: The rise and Fall of Cool Britannia was an Evening Standard and Metro Book of the Year. Daniel and I dig in to these incredible historical documents to talk about some key periods in the career of Paul Weller with stories of Red Wedge from the 1980s and Cool Britannia and his return to the top of the charts in the 1990s. You can buy these brilliant books and support independent bookshops here https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/danielrachel or head to Waterstones or Amazon.    ** If you've enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and tell your friends! Plus if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My very special guest on this episode is Rick Buckler – drummer for The Jam! Described as 'the big beat behind all of those great songs' and 'the perfect drummer for the perfect bands', Rick tells his story from the early days learning the instrument, to meeting Paul, Steve Brookes and Bruce Foxton at Sheerwater School in Woking. We hear about the early days playing 50s and 60s favourites around Surrey to finding their own voice through a blend of rock, punk, mod and new wave, to signing with Polydor through to those incredible singles, albums, live performances and the personal triumphs – and ultimately how it all came to an end in 1982. A man proud of the legacy and music that endures to this day. You can also find out more by reading Rick's story in the book – That's Entertainment: My Life in The Jam- written with Ian Snowball – available here – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Thats-Entertainment-My-Life-Jam/dp/1783057947/   ** If you've enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and tell your friends! Plus if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

This week, photographer Martyn Goddard takes us through his Jam archives. For avid consumers of Jam vinyl in the late seventies and early eighties, Martyn Goddard’s photographs need little introduction. His images appear on the cover of their first album, In The City, and their fifth, Sound Affects. In between, his photos ere used on the front covers of a flurry of picture sleeve singles: “All Around The World”,“The Modern World”, “News of The World”, “David Watts/ ‘A’ Bomb in Wardour Street”, “Down in the Tube Station at Midnight”, and finally “Strange Town”. We dive into his personal recollections, and his shoot journals, where he recorded the dates of his studio sessions – and hear a bunch of memories from working with The Jam. Find out more on Jam Sessions – Photographs by Martyn Goddard – the new limited edition book – at SnapGalleries.com   ** If you've enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and tell your friends! Plus if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My latest guest is described perfectly by @BritpopMemories as 'Probably the best bass player of his generation' – Damon Minchella. As a founding member of Ocean Colour Scene for 14 years, Damon toured the world, scoring five top five albums and 15 top 20 singles (they even supported Paul at my first live Weller experience in 1992!) From 1994-2006, he doubled up as a member of Paul Weller’s band – playing on hit albums – Heliocentric, Illumination, Studio 150 and As Is Now, along with plenty of Live LPs and DVDs. Post Weller-Band, he has continued to work with Drummer, Steve White in three bands – Trio Valore (with Justin Shearn / Seamus Beaghen) Players (with Mick Talbot)  and The Family Silver (with Matt Deighton). At the same time his place as one of the UK’s most talented bassists has seen him in much in demand – playing live or in the studio with such rock ’n’ roll greats as Richard Ashcroft, Paul McCartney, The Who, Jimmy Page, Dr John, Paolo Nutini and Amy Winehouse. You can find out more about Minchella & Manning here – https://www.minchellamanning.com/   ** If you've enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and tell your friends! Plus if you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

In this episode, I chat to former Polydor Art Director, Bill Smith. Not only did Bill create that famous spray-paint The Jam logo that lives on today but he also created the covers for 5 of their albums and 16 of their singles! Across five decades, Bill Smith Studio has worked with more than 200 bands and artists, creating hundreds of album covers, singles bags, and CD covers. You may not know it, but if you bought records over the past forty years, you’ve probably bought a number of theirs. Bill Smith Studio worked with some of the world’s best photographers, illustrators and painters on covers for, among others, The Jam, The Cure, Kate Bush, Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, King Crimson, Eric Clapton, Toyah, Johnny Thunders, Genesis, Queen and Mike Oldfield. In his new book 'Cover Stories' you’ll find the stories of 70 plus albums including contributions from the bands, the artists, photographers and painters involved.  Find out more and order your copy here – https://redplanetmusicbooks.com/products/cover-stories

2021 finally sees the reemergence of British folk’s most enigmatic lost son – and I can't quite believe that the mighty Matt Deighton is joining me on the podcast! You may recognize Matt Deighton from his time fronting Acid Jazz heroes Mother Earth or as Paul Weller’s guitarist in the late 90’s when he joined the band for the Heavy Soul Tour. And my goodness me – he has some fabulous stories to share! For almost two decades, the man they keep calling the natural successor to Nick Drake, Davey Graham and John Martyn has been himself more of a rumour – a murmur among musicians, songwriters and diehard music lovers who proudly display his rare vinyl releases like trophies. Matt’s is a story of genuinely great musicianship and songwriting; but most of all, of the beauty and fragility of one of Britain’s greatest lost talents and how life around him has sometimes shaped a fate beyond his control; but who has come back with something more beautiful every time the storm abated. Find out more about Matt Deighton – Overshadowed – the intimate documentary at http://www.mattdeightonmovie.com and check out his tunes at http://www.mattdeighton.co.uk Thanks for listening! If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Celebrate the release of Fat Pop (Volume 1) from Paul Weller with some lovely fans! Including The Magic Mod (Ben Taylor), Trevor Neal (Trevor & Simon), Broadcaster Peter Gordon (PG) Plus Super-Fans, Tony Christmas, Aarjen Schilt, Peter Nagle, Sandy Mackinnon, Jordan Cartmell, Dan Spackman and David Gordon. All recorded over lunchtime on Friday 14th May 2021 – Fat Pop Day!

My Guest on this episode is Alex Borg AKA The Stereo Typist  This podcast is published on the eve of the release of Paul Weller's 16th Solo album – Fat Pop (Volume 1) so who better to chat to than the man who created the wonderful album cover artwork! We hear how it all came about, stories of meetings at Black Barn / Paul Weller HQ along with Alex's love of vinyl, graphic design, bright colours, Pop Art and making music with his band – Moonlight Parade. Find out more here If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

Mick's Up! My Guest is The Style Council Legend – Mick Talbot – keyboardist, songwriter, singer, composer and record producer. On 1st March 1983, Paul Weller officially pulled the wraps off his new project, to be called The Style Council. Following the split of The Jam, Paul had re-signed to Polydor as a solo artist, and soon recruited former Merton Parkas, Dexy's Midnight Runners and Bureau keyboardist, Mick Talbot who remained his soul brother and sounding board for the next seven years. We talk about performing with The Jam, forming The Style Council and those incredible singles, EPs, albums, videos and live dates including Tokyo, Glastonbury, Live Aid and so much more! Post-TSC, Mick has worked with Paul on his first 3 solo albums (Paul Weller, Wild Wood and Stanley Road) and more recently for On Sunset (Baptiste, Village & Walkin'). You'll also find Mick's amazing musical skills on albums with former Style Council member Steve White, under the name Talbot/White and The Players (with the addition of former Ocean Colour Scene bassist Damon Minchella), in the jazz/funk band The Players. He played keyboards in Galliano, on the 1991 Young Disciples album Road to Freedom, and on recent LPs from Stone Foundation and even co-wrote & produced Dexy's 2012 LP One Day I'm Going to Soar 2020 saw him appear on the Monks Road Social album with the likes of Dr Robert, Matt Deighton, Neil Jones and Kathryn Williams. My thanks to Mick for giving up his time for this very special episode – and for Nicky Weller for helping to arrange it all. If you enjoyed it then please chuck a few quid to Romney House Cat Rescue – romneyhousecatrescue.org.uk Oh… and here's Júníus Meyvant that Mick mentions at the end too!!! https://juniusmeyvant.com/    

On this episode I'm joined by PR Guru, Polly Birkbeck (the lady who looks after press for the main man – Mr Paul Weller!) Polly started her career as A&R assistant in the early 90s at Food Records (label for Blur, Jesus Jones, Diesel Park West and others) before heading over to Savage & Best PR where she was Head of Press working with the likes of Pulp, Suede, Elastica and Menswear during the crazy days of BritPop! She moved to v2 Records in 2000 and has worked with Paul Weller ever since – including for the past 15 years on her own venture, Complete Control PR Polly has loads of lovely stories of working with Paul, and even a nice surprise about the Black Barn crew and this little podcast thing! If you enjoy the podcast and want to support financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

In this episode, I chat with Paul Francis – bass player with The Paul Weller Movement in 1990. In 1989, Paul Weller found himself without a band and recording deal for the first time since he was 18. After taking time off for most of 1990, he returned to the road in Nov / Dec, touring as "The Paul Weller Movement" with drummer Steve White, Max Beesley (now Hollywood star!), Crispin Taylor, Jacko Peake, Damon Brown, Chris Lawrence and Paul Francis on bass. Dive in to hear how it all happened – links with Galliano, Whitey, Mick Talbot and so much more… Paul's time in the band was also captured live for BBC Radio, in a concert that features on Paul Weller Live at the BBC We also chat about Capricorn 1 – an instrumental band project, built from the remnants of his days with Paul Weller, JTQ and Galliano and his musical relationship with drummer Harbans Shrih (JTQ, The Funky Muchachos) and Mick Talbot from The Style Council. You can hear it here If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

My guest on this episode is the fabulous Chris Difford – singer, musician, songwriter, and record producer – founding member of Squeeze with Glenn Tilbrook. His musical journey has run parallel to Paul Weller – from starting his first band in 1972 – to hitting the big time in 1978 – and a legacy of magnificent songs like Cool for Cats, Up The Junction, Is That Love, Some Fantastic Place – and at times their story has crossed over too – most notably with Paul recording his 2000 LP at Chris' studio Heliocentric (the album was named after the studio!) A master of the smart, pithy lyricism – Chris has also written songs for Jools Holland, Elton John, Wet Wet Wet, Helen Shapiro, Billy Bremner and Elvis Costello – been the manager of Bryan Ferry and The Strypes, and released four brilliant solo albums. Chris published his autobiography in 2018 – Some Fantastic Place – which charts his life from childhood in south London to becoming a member of one of Britain's greatest bands and beyond. Along the way Chris reveals the inspiration and stories behind Squeeze's best-known songs, and his greatest highs and lows from over four decades of making music. If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

This week, we head across the English Channel to the South of France for a chat with LE SUPERHOMARD AKA Christophe Vaillant. A french musician with a history of mod-styled formations, like the band The Strawberry Smell and Pony Taylor – and a love of the music of Paul Weller! In early 2019, his debut album Meadow Lane Park was not only dreamlike and enchanting, but the critics loved it – and it you read any interview with Paul Weller at the time – he was likely to be raving about it too! He even included the song 'Black Diamond' in his ten favourite songs of 2018 for UNCUT. Their musical chemistry doesn’t end there, as LE SUPERHOMARD went on to remix ON SUNSET for the 2020 EP featuring new versions of songs from Paul Weller's Number One LP! Christophe Vaillant is back with a new album – available from 30th April 2021 = Maxwell Farrington & Le SuperHomard – ‘Once’ – a timeless collection of sophisticated orchestral pop.

Mojo Magazine – Senior Editor, Danny Eccleston talks Paul Weller Edits MOJO! Paul Weller has been a reader since Issue #1 and a MOJO cover star 11 times. Qualifications that make him an ideal MOJO Guest Editor (their sixth). He asked for features on Paul McCartney, The Coral, CSNY, My Bloody Valentine and Funkadelic, gave the lowdown on his new LP, and recommended new bands and buried treasures for you to check out. Danny shares stories of interviews with Paul from Wild Wood to now, along with a love of The Jam, Style Council and Solo music, and even takes us through this month's covermount CD – curated and compiled by Paul Weller. Titled Into Tomorrow, it features 15 tracks including songs by Richard Hawley, Durand Jones, Third Ear Band, Declan O’Rourke, Teenage Waitress, Marvin Powell and a Weller rarity! Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Welcome to an episode dedicated to The Jam Scrapbook – a unique project from Blogger Jill Webb from Hull, England and Steve Hinders from Ohio, USA Listen to me play the part of Cilla Black for a very special 'Surprise Surprise' episode of the podcast. Back in the 1980s, inspired by Paul Weller, Jill wrote and edited a music and poetry fanzine called Kindred Spirit. In 2020, her world changed completely from a chance social media connection with Steve. What follows are stories of a shared love of the 'best band in the f**king world!' along with some amazing tales of spending time with the Weller family, correspondence with Paul, journeys with The Jam Army, and so much more! Have a listen to their amazing tales – and then check out the blogs to see the photos and read all about it… THE FIRST BLOG https://kindredspiritfanzine.blogspot.com/2020/11/paul-weller-riot-stories.html THE JAM SCRAPBOOK PART 1 https://kindredspiritfanzine.blogspot.com/2021/01/the-jam-scrapbook-part-one.html THE JAM SCRAPBOOK PART 2 https://kindredspiritfanzine.blogspot.com/2021/03/jam-scrapbook-two.html   If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

New York City based singer-songwriter Jeff Slate is not only an internationally recognized recording artist and music journalist… From the discovery of The Jam in the 1970s, to a love of The Style Council and the first moments of Paul Weller Solo to now – Jeff has been there as a super-fan, a collector, master-interviewer and so much more! Jeff has also got his copy of Fat Pop (Volume 1) so stand by for news on what Jeff calls 'the best moments of the past 5 or so records'. Jeff co-founded the band the Mindless Thinkers in the 1980s, founded The Badge in the '90s, and has performed and worked with countless rock luminaries, including Pete Townshend of The Who, Roger McGuinn of The Byrds, Sheryl Crow and others. As a music journalist, Jeff writes feature articles and conducts in-depth interviews for Rock Cellar, Rolling Stone, Esquire, The  New Yorker, The Wall Street Journal, NBC and more… READ 2020 Reappraising Paul Weller’s The Style Council READ 2020 Paul Weller: ‘The Modfather’ Discusses Life in COVID-19 Isolation and His New Album, ‘On Sunset’ READ 2018 Searching for ‘True Meanings’ with Paul Weller READ 2015 Weller talks Saturns Pattern CHECK OUT JEFF SLATE'S MUSIC here In October 2020,  Jeff released a new single, "Heartbreak" – recorded in sessions spanning the globe during the current pandemic lockdown and the first evidence of the sessions for a promised studio album in 2021 – the single featured an all-star cast of players, including his longtime collaborator Earl Slick (John Lennon, David Bowie) on guitars, Duff McKagan (Guns N' Roses) on bass and Paul Weller's longtime drummer Ben Gordelier. If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Steve Rapport – Rock 'n' Roll Photographer – documented the London music scene of the 1980s with nothing more than a pair of trusty Nikons and a passion for music with heart and soul. Dive in to hear Steve's incredible stories of music photographer, including The Jam and The Style Council from Brixton Fair Deal, to the ICA, a key role in Red Wedge with Paul and Billy Bragg, to photography on The Lodgers and Long Hot Summer videos plus Wembley, Live Aid and so much more… These days Steve can usually be found at his (mostly) rock 'n' roll gallery at Rockaway Beach in his home town of Pacifica, CA, which showcases his incredible work.  You can order Steve's new book here – Modfather: Paul Weller, The Jam & The Style Council And check out his portfolio of incredible photography If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Neil Jones from Stone Foundation joins me for Episode 26. Neil formed the Midlands-based Soul band with Neil Sheasby in 1997. A band that continue to raise the bar with every release – and a band who have worked so collaboratively with Paul Weller in recent years. 2017's breakthrough LP, Street Rituals was produced by Paul, who also features on all the tracks (piano, guitar & vocal including lead vocal on ‘Your Balloon Is Rising’). Two songs – ‘The Limit of a Man’ & ‘Colour Of’ – are co-writes with a Jones/Sheasby/Weller credit. Everybody, Anyone in 2018, featured 11 new songs and a sprinkling of guest musicians including Kathryn Williams, Dr Robert, Mick Talbot, Steve White, & The Average White Band’s Hamish Stuart, and unable to stay away, Paul Weller sneaks back in with a bit of piano, guitar and BVs on a couple of tracks. Is Love Enough? was again recorded at Paul Weller's Black Barn Studios in Surrey and continues their fruitful collaboration with another killer collaboration with Deeper Love. Paul also provides backing vocals on ‘Picture A Life’ and joins the band and plays guitar on ‘Af-Ri-Ka’, ‘Help Me’, and ‘Love’s Interlude (II)’.  The band have also supported Paul on tour + Mr Weller has joined them on stage at their gigs too. Check out some Stone Foundation with Paul Weller below Back in the Game Your Balloon is Rising Deeper Love If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Saxophonist & Song-writer, Billy Chapman played with The Style Council alongside his own band, Animal Nightlife. You can hear him on TSC tracks 'Dropping Bombs On The Whitehouse', 'Me Ship Came In!' from Café Bleu, along with the single 'With Everything To Lose' and 'Heavens Above' from The Cost of Loving LP. You can also hear him live on Home & Abroad LP, Style Council in Concert and watch on Far East & Far Out – Council Meeting In Japan. Plus check out Animal Nightlife albums – Shangri-La (1985) + Lush Life (1988) If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

Grammy nominatted singer, songwriter, producer and trombonist, Ashley Slater joins us on Episode 24 – (6 out of of 7 special Honorary Councillor podcasts) Ashley emigrated to England in 1977, where he joined the regimental band of the Royal Scots – serving in the army for 6 1/2 years – before joining the jazz orchestral collective Loose Tubes.  As an Honorary Councillor, he played on the single version of The Lodgers 'A newly recorded version presented to you by public demand' which featured The Style Council's biggest studio entourage to date plus The Orange Album (The Cost of Loving LP) on tracks Walking The Night and Fairy Tales. In 1993, he began working with Norman Cook on the now seminal band, Freak Power. They had a Europe-wide number 1 hit in 1995, following use of their tune "Turn on, Tune in, Cop Out".  If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

We have a proper exclusive for Episode 23 as my guest is Jaye Ella-Ruth, formally known as Jaye Williamson. Jaye toured the world with The Style Council in 1984, performing as an Honorary Councillor on BBC Sight and Sound In Concert, and the Far East And Far Out Live video.  You can also hear her vocals on the Groovin’ EP and 1998's LP 'The Style Council in Concert'.  You're in for a real treat as Jaye has never spoken about her time working with Paul Weller and The Style Council! Post TSC, she was a member of The Brand New Heavies, recording their first album and single, and original member of Yes No People (who later became Stomp).   Jaye toured and recorded with many artists, such as Imagination, Curiosity Killed The Cat, Michael McDonald, Jermaine Stuart, Whitney Houston, Donny Osmond, Ce-Ce Penniston, Talk Talk & Errol Brown… Watch Far East Far Out – Council Meeting in Japan and the Big Boss Groove Video Find out more about From The Style Council If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Our Style Council Celebration continues with Kevin Miller Part of Tracie Young's Soul Squad – signed to Paul's Respond Record Label – he was musical director and played bass guitar –  Kevin toured the world supporting TSC. He also played bass on the Groovin' EP – 'You're The Best Thing' , 'Big Boss Groove' and 'Shout to the Top'. Kevin also worked with Spandau Ballet’ (whilst the absent Kemp brothers were making the film The Krays) and then on to record an album in Los Angeles with ‘Tony Hadley’ after Tony and the band had parted company. If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Our Style Council Celebration continues with bass player – Anthony Harty Anthony joined The Style Council straight out of school in 1983. As an Honorary Councillor, he went on to tour the World with Paul, Mick and the band until 1985 before going on to work with over 100 bands and artists includingThe Truth, The Specials, The Beat, The Selecter, Badfinger, The Primitives, Gerry & The Pacemakers, Hazel O’Connor, Steve Ellis (Love Affair). He even bagged himself a Grammy from work with Lee Scratch Perry! You can catch Anthony live with From The Style Council If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Our Style Council Celebration continues with drummer, percussonist & singer – Zeke Manyika Winning the accolade of 1st Honorary Councillor – listed on the back of the 'Speak Like a Child' sleeve with Tracie Young – Zeke was part of The Style Council before it even existed – working with Paul and Mick on 3 of the first 4 singles. As part of Orange Juice, Zeke tour up the charts in the early 80s before working with The The, The Zeros, Route 66, Mark Almond and more recently Faze Action. In the early 90s, it was Zeke that Paul Weller turned to to enhance the sound of The Paul Weller Movement – his first solo venture after the break of The Style Council. Check out Zeke on Spotify here If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

7 Podcasts – 7 Days – 7 Honorary Councillors! We kick off a celebration of The Style Council with Hilary Robertson (or Seabrook if you're checking your sleeve notes). Now days, she's a creative working with words – online, in print and on air – but in the 1980s, she played Sax in The Style Council heading out on UK and European Tours in 1983… You can also hear her on record on 'My Every Changing Moods' (listen to the podcast to hear which version!) and 'Headstart for Happiness' and 'A Gospel' from Cafe Bleu. Hilary's Blog – hilaryrobertson.blogspot.com Hilary's Podcast – Search for 'Harmonious World'  Check out the band with Hilary in some TV Shows too The Tube Top of The Pops Saturday Superstore Headstart for Happiness If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

In this episode, I'm joined by the legend that is Alan McGee A man with a passion for music and an entrepreneurial streak who became one of the biggest music moguls in the business – discovering Oasis, Primal Scream, My Bloody Valentine, Happy Mondays and so many more. It all started with a love for The Jam – and Creation Records may never have existed without Paul Weller. Find out how is this incredible conversation – as Alan chats about his love of his music in depth for the very first time. You can watch biopic, Creation Stories on Sky Cinema from March 20th. Watch the Trailer. And check out Alan's new record label – It's Creation Baby.   If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi    

My guest this week is the fabulous, Pete Paphides  Pete started his career in music journalism at Melody Maker before going on to write for Time Out, the Guardian, Mojo, Q, Observer Music Monthly and The Times, where he spent five years as their Chief Music Critic. Not only is Pete a massive Weller fan but he has spent time with Paul in his studio and on tour – and has some incredible stories to tell – including the best kebab tale you will ever hear! .Since 2015, Pete has hosted a weekly music show for Soho Radio – Listen here In 2020, Quercus published his first book, a memoir about childhood and music entitled ‘Broken Greek’ – Check it out here  (It's brilliant!) Oh and finally, Pete mentioned his Weller Spotify playlist so check that out here too. If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My guest is Former Record Industry Executive, Dennis Munday. Working for Polydor, Dennis effectively became an honorary member of both The Jam and The Style Council – often being the vital link between Paul Weller and record company, Polydor. Dennis takes us on a journey from a love of Jazz to working with the best f***ing band in the world – The Jam. We hear incredible tales of recording those hit songs and albums, a link to The Beatles that you may not know about, to the band on tour plus how Paul split the band and created The Style Council with Mick Talbot, how Dennis discovered Drummer, Steve White, the success of Cafe Bleu & Our Favourite Shop to the rejected final album. We even touch on the Weller comeback in the early 90s and what is left in the magical archive! It's an incredible story so strap in for an amazing ride. NB: Dennis now lives in Italy – where the internet is less than fabulous so the audio quality on this one isn't outstanding – I hope you enjoy! If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My guest on Episode 15, Craig Hassall – CEO of London's Iconic Royal Albert Hall. Plug in for stories of a love of The Style Council from Down Under, getting the gig at RAH, Teenage Cancer Trust's epic nights with Mr Weller and inside info on one of the World's most treasured music venues. Paul Weller has played RAH over 40 times – including the famous (on this podcast at least) 5 nights in a row in 2010. Find out more about the Royal Albert Hall at http://www.royalalberthall.com And see / buy the Sir Peter Black mural that we talk about here If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

BAFTA winning writer & comedian, Trevor Neal is best known as one half of British comedy duo,  Trevor and Simon – rocking our Saturday Morning TV worlds for a decade on Going Live! (1987-1993), and Live and Kicking (1993-1997). Trevor is a massive Paul Weller fan – from discovering punk as a teenager and a shared love of The Jam through to performing on the same bill in the 90s – and rocking out to Weller Solo on Jools Holland. In fact he has more in common with Paul than you could ever imagine. Share the love on Twitter – twitter.com/trevorneal You can find crowd-funded comedy audio drama – Strangeness in Space at strangenessinspace.com/ If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Absolute Radio & Magic Radio are two of the biggest radio stations in the UK – attracting millions of listeners every week. James Curran is the man behind the music – working with labels, artists, DJs, presenters to shape the sound of these award-winning radio stations as Director of Music… Not only does he love MUSIC – love LIVE GIGS – love RADIO – he also happens to be a Big Paul Weller fan – arranging sessions and interviews with Paul throughout his career. Listen to Absolute Radio here Listen to Magic Radio here And if you want to request Weller (whilst giving the podcast a little mention) then you can get in touch with the team here… Magic Request Show – Sundays 10am  – Get your requests in on hello@magic.co.uk, or text MAGIC followed by your message to 61054 or fill in the form here Absolute Radio Request Show – Sundays 6pm – To get your song on-air tweet @AbsoluteRadio with #RequestShow or text 81215 (50p + n/wrk rate). If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

Episode 12 of the podcast, and I've already been invited in to the Weller family home! Special guest, Nicky Weller – the blood, sweat and tears behind both The Jam and The Style Council Fan Clubs – along with the fabulous About The Young Idea – Jam Exhibition. Nicky also happens to be sister to Mr Paul Weller (our end goal for this podcast series!). Download to hear Nicky talking family life, what Paul is watching on Netflix, the early days in Stanley Road, Woking and The Jam, TSC, Solo + On Sunset and so much more… We even help their mum, Ann to find her knitting! You can find links to 'Stinger – The Book' here and Nicky is also fundraising for Romney House Cat Rescue – please chuck a few quid their way if you enjoy our chat. romneyhousecatrescue.org.uk If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

In this episode, I am joined by musician, record producer and DJ – Andy Lewis. Andy was part of The Paul Weller Band – from 22 Dreams to A Kind Revolution – playing to millions all over the globe. He has released two albums as a solo artist, on Acid Jazz Records: Billion Pound Project in September 2005 and You Should Be Hearing Something Now! in October 2007. He made his name as one of the prime movers behind the Brit Pop explosion of the mid-90's thanks to his DJ sets at Blow Up and on Blur's Parklife tour. In 2017, he released Summer Dancing – a critically acclaimed album with folk legend, Judy Dyble. In 2020, he played bass on the magnificent album 'Thunderclouds' by Louis Philippe & The Night Mail. If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

WHAT A THRILL! My guest on Episode 10 is Timothy Shepard – an incredible collage artist working with paper, photography, cine film and music. Tim created the artwork for the album cover on Paul Weller’s masterpiece – 22 Dreams (2008) He has also filmed and directed a number of music videos including for Kevin Ayers, The Go-Betweens, and Bandante (George Vjestica – Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds). We find out more about working and walking with Paul, how he created the magical album cover, along with sessions at Black Barn Studio and so much more! Find out more here – http://www.timshepard.co.uk and the full artwork here  If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Paul Weller once sang "Your mojo will have no effect – as we head into tomorrow" Clearly he hadn't read Mojo's Collectors Series – from my special guest, Pat Gilbert. Journalist, author, broadcaster and a man who has Paul Weller on speed dial – Pat shares a love of The Jam, stories of many meetings with Paul and exclusive interviews. Plus a sneak preview on 2021's upcoming new album – Fat Pop Volume 1 Mojo: The Collectors Series: Paul Weller – Edition 1 Mojo: The Collectors Series: Paul Weller – Edition 2 Pat Gilbert Online Pat Gilbert On Twitter If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Singer / songwriter Teenage Waitress aka Daniel J. Ash joins us for Episode 8 A huge Weller fan with tales of meeting his hero, supporting Paul on tour, creating at Black Barn and so much more! Daniel also treats us to a special Lockdown3.0 bedroom session playing "The Mess You Made Me Make" Check out the debut album from Teenage Waitress – Love & Chemicals And here for more info about Colorama Records If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

My guest on Episode 7 is Ian Snowball (Snowy) Author of multiple books on The Jam, Style Council and Paul Weller including Sounds From The Studio, Thick As Thieves: Personal Situations with The Jam and the 2021 publication of Soul Deep – Adventures of the Style Council (with my guest from Episode 1, Stuart Deabill) Ian also collaborated with The Jam's Rick Buckler on his auto-biography That's Entertainment: My Life in the Jam If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

This week, I am joined by Ben Taylor, AKA 'The Magic Mod' – not only is he Rock n' Roll's favourite magician – Ben is a massive Paul Weller fan – who has accompanied Paul and the band on tour and in the studio at Black Barn. https://www.instagram.com/the_magic_mod/ Celebrating the modern world subculture, Liam Gallagher claims, “he is the best dressed magician about.” Being the only magician to tour with various bands and artists, Ben has made The Magic Mod a well known name around the indie music scene. Having accompanied the likes of the Libertines, Pete Doherty, Paul Weller and Reverend and the makers at sold out gigs and festivals (namely, Isle of Wight festival), performing a well-received show to thousands at any one time. As well as having numerous TV appearances under his belt, Ben also has a documentary made about his journey through magic. The documentary features famous supporters such as Vicky McClure (This is England), Johnny Owen, Martin Freeman and The Magic Mods’ biggest supporter, Paul Weller. If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Episode 5 sees Dan chat to film-maker Lee Cogswell about his work with Paul Weller. From mini-documentaries on albums from Kind Revolution, to True Meanings and On Sunset through to Style Council Documentary "Long Hot Summers" Lee has even created music videos for Paul for 'White Horses' and 'Movin' On' Find out more at Mono Media Films If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Episode 4 – and I'm joined by Weller Fan and Radio Boss, Ric Blaxill. Ric has an incredible CV, working across radio and TV, collaborating with some of the biggest names in the business. From BBC Radio 1, Capital Radio and BBC 6 Music to Top of the Pops – and Paul Weller's return to primetime TV in the nineties. Ric currently works for Bauer Media as the music and content director for its radio division looking after Planet Rock, Kerrang Radio, Heat! and Scala Radio. If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

Episode 3's guest is Singer / Songwriter Russell Hastings (From The Jam) The only frontman to work with both Rick Buckler and Bruce Foxton since Paul Weller split The Jam in 1982. His work with Bruce has also seen him also work alongside Paul Weller, Wilko Johnson and Steve Cropper to name just a few As a genuine Jam fan, his passion and understanding of The Jam's history is second to none and has toured the world playing to packed houses of Jam fans for years. Russell was also co writer on Bruce Foxton's last album "Back In The Room" which reached Number 21 in the Independent album charts and was received with great acclaim. If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi

On Episode 2, we are joined by Weller Super Fan, and friend, Mark Baxter (Bax) A Writer / film-maker / PR man / London Legend … known as The Mumper, who, together with his Mono Media company partner, Lee Cogswell, has made documentary films on recent Paul Weller albums from Jawbone through to On Sunset. They also made 2020's incredible Sky Arts Documentary on The Style Council called Long Hot Summers. Strap in for Episode 2 of the World's First Paul Weller Fan Podcast. Find out more about Mono Media Films at http://monomediafilms.london/ If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi  

"If we get through for two minutes only, it will be a start!"  Welcome to Episode 1 of Desperately Seeking Paul – The World's First Paul Weller Fan Podcast. We kick off with special guest, author, Stuart Deabill, one of the team behind the brilliant new book ‘Soul Deep – Adventures With The Style Council’. It celebrates “probably the best pop group in the world” with words, images and love from former band members, fans and associates. The Book features new and exclusive interviews with Mick Talbot, Steve White, Camelle Hinds, Simon Halfon, Nicky Weller, Billy Bragg, Gary Crowley, Tracie Young, Dennis Munday, Zeke Manyika, Eddie Piller, Norman Jay MBE, Daniel Rachel, Wendy May, Mark Baxter, Brendan Lynch and many others. If you want to support the podcast financially, you can buy me a virtual coffee via the link below (£3) Buy me a coffee on ko-fi