Black Barn Studio Engineer and Producer, Charles Rees AKA The Wizard shares stories behind the making of Paul Weller's 17th Solo Studio album - 66.

Black Barn Studio Engineer and Producer, Charles Rees AKA The Wizard shares stories behind the making of Paul Weller's 17th Solo Studio album - 66.

Discover the Magic Behind Paul Weller’s New Album “66”

Welcome to an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of Paul Weller’s 17th solo studio album, "66." In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Charles Rees, the wizard behind the album's engineering and production, to explore the intricate layers and creative process that brought this masterpiece to life.

From the outset, "66" is a celebration of collaboration. Charles takes us on a journey through Black Barn Studio, where the album was meticulously crafted. He shares stories of the many talented musicians who contributed to the album, including Steve Cradock, Josh McClorey, Richard Hawley, and many more. Each track is a testament to Weller’s ability to bring together a diverse array of sounds and styles, creating something truly unique and magical.

One of the standout moments in the podcast is the discussion of the recordings at the legendary Abbey Road Studios with Britten Sinfonia and Hannah Peel. Charles recounts the excitement and awe of working in such an iconic space, where the history of music seeps through the walls. The orchestral arrangements add a rich, dynamic layer to the album, elevating tracks like "Rise Up Singing" and "I Woke Up" to new heights.

Listeners are treated to an in-depth analysis of several key tracks, including "Ship of Fools," "Flying Fish," and "Jumble Queen." Charles reveals the meticulous process of layering instruments, vocals, and soundscapes to achieve the perfect balance. He also highlights the importance of stripping back elements to ensure each component shines through, a philosophy that has resulted in a more refined and impactful sound on "66."

The podcast also delves into the personal connections and stories behind the music including contributions of Max Beesley, Jacko Peake, and Christophe Vaillant, and how each collaborator brings their unique touch to the album. The result is a collection of songs that are both intimate and expansive, reflecting Weller’s ever-evolving artistry.

As we reach the final episode of our journey, Charles reflects on the joy and challenges of bringing "66" to life. He shares his excitement for the album’s release and the anticipation of seeing how fans will react to the new music. For those who have followed Paul Weller’s career, "66" is a testament to his enduring creativity and ability to surprise and delight listeners with each new project.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Weller’s music, this podcast episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the making of "66".

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As fans enjoy Paul Weller's latest album, "66," our podcast offers a unique behind-the-scenes look into the making of his 17th solo studio album.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with the multi-talented Hannah Peel, who played a pivotal role in the album's creation.

We hear about the creation of the orchestration and the recording process at the iconic Abbey Road Studio Two, with Hannah's insights providing a rich tapestry of the creative process behind "66."

Hannah Peel is a multi-award-winning composer, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist.

During our conversation, Hannah shared her experiences working with Paul Weller and the Britten Sinfonia, revealing the intricate details of the album's orchestration and the collaborative spirit that permeated the project.

One of the standout moments of our discussion was Hannah's recounting of the 66 sessions at Abbey Road Studios. Known for its rich history and unparalleled acoustics, Abbey Road provided the perfect studio for the recording of the orchestra. Hannah described the thrill of working with the Britten SInfonia, an orchestra renowned for its adventurous playing and support of young talent. The collaboration resulted in beautifully arranged layers that add a unique richness to Paul Weller's music on 66.

Hannah also touched on the various tracks she worked on, including "My Best Friend's Coat," "Rise Up Singing," "I Woke Up," and "Burnout." Each song allowing Hannah to showcase her exceptional skills in orchestration and arrangement. For instance, "I Woke Up" brought Hannah to tears with its beauty, while "Burnout" required a delicate balance of low-end strings and brass to achieve its hauntingly powerful sound.

Beyond the album, Hannah's career continues to soar. She recently won an Ivor Novello Award for her work on the TV series "The Midwich Cuckoos" and has created beautiful music for Netflix film Scoop and the soundtrack for the new series "Insomnia". Her ability to seamlessly transition between different musical genres and mediums is a testament to her versatility and talent.

This podcast episode with Hannah Peel is a treasure trove of insights for any music lover or aspiring musician.

Her passion for collaboration, her meticulous approach to orchestration, and her genuine love for the craft shine through in every word.

As we wrapped up our conversation, Hannah hinted at future projects and collaborations, leaving us eagerly anticipating what's next in her remarkable career.

Don't miss this fascinating episode that delves deep into the making of Paul Weller's "66."

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Unveiling the Magic Behind Paul Weller's '66': An Exclusive Podcast Episode with Steve Trigg AKA The General.

Paul Weller, a name synonymous with musical genius, has once again graced the world with his 17th solo studio album, '66'.

This podcast series offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into its creation. Featuring the talented Steve Trigg from Stone Foundation, this episode is a treasure trove for any Weller enthusiast.

Steve Trigg, known for his exceptional brass arrangements, shares his journey and experiences working closely with Paul Weller.

One of the standout moments in the episode is Steve's recounting of his impromptu performance at The Beacon in Bristol. This venue, formerly known as Colston Hall, holds a special place in Steve's heart. His spontaneous appearance alongside Weller is a testament to the organic and dynamic nature of their collaboration. It's these behind-the-scenes anecdotes that give fans a deeper appreciation of the music they love.

Listeners are treated to insights into specific tracks like 'Jumble Queen' and 'Rise Up Singing'. Steve elaborates on the intricate brass arrangements that elevate these songs, offering a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship behind each note. The episode also delves into the evolution of these tracks, from initial recordings to live performances, highlighting the fluid and ever-evolving nature of Weller's music.

Steve discusses the broader implications of the album's themes and the collaborative spirit that defines '66'. and his reflections on the creative freedom he experienced while working on the album underscore the importance of artistic collaboration in producing truly memorable music.

As the episode draws to a close, Steve shares his excitement for the future, both for his work with Stone Foundation. His passion for music and dedication to his craft are palpable.

For fans of Paul Weller and Stone Foundation, this podcast episode is a must-listen. It not only offers a unique perspective on the making of '66' but also celebrates the enduring legacy of one of Britain's most beloved musicians.

Listen to the full episode now and immerse yourself in the story of '66'. 🎧✨

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For Episode 102 of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I am joined by journalist, editor and broadcaster Claire Mahoney - an active member and influential promoter of the Mod scene with a passion for music, fashion, art and culture.We'll hear all about her teenage discovery of The Jam, and a love affair that has lasted a lifetime.Claire has written extensively about the mod scene and made regular appearances on BBC Radio Wales to speak about The Jam, Paul Weller, Mod and 60s soul music.We'll hear more about her latest project Detail Magazine - a print publication dedicated to offering a more in-depth look at the UK’s most stylish subculture – Mod and her book Welsh Mod.

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 or our new official merchandise at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store

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Over the past 55 years, musician Danny Thompson has been a bandleader, sideman, group member and composer. Best known as a double-bassist, he has worked with the very best including Richard Thompson, John Martyn and Nick Drake, along with great jazz men such as Humphrey Lyttelton and Tubby Hayes as well as Rod Stewart, Roy Orbison, and Kate Bush.In recent years, he has also played with our podcast subject - Paul Weller.

Danny played double bass on two tracks for 2004's Studio 150 album, cover versions of Tim Hardin's Don't Make Promises and the Sister Sledge classic Thinking of You and on 2018's True Meanings.

Danny played double bass on the track Come Along.

In 2016, he joined Paul on stage in Brighton in a supergroup including Paul with Robert Wyatt, Steve Pilgrim and Ben Gordelier.

The range of music that his performances have graced is hard to believe. Working with the many true"Greats" of Blues, Jazz, Folk , World and Popular music.

A founding member of influential folk-jazz group Pentangle from 1967-1973 (along with its subsequent reunions and re-versionings) - he has also had a critically acclaimed successful solo career - winning two lifetime achievement awards at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.Find more information on Danny , including our special playlist , at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-101-danny-thompsonMake 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 or our new official merchandise at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store

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So here we are - Episode 100 of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast - who would have thought it?Firstly - thanks to you for your support , your shares and your thoughts - its all helped to get us to number one on iTunes and to grow listeners to the podcast over the past 18 months.Thanks to my wife and family for letting me do this thing - evenings, weekends and holidays spent creating something I hope is truly unique and special to fans of Paul Weller.

To all the guests from past and future - it would be nothing without you - your honesty, warmth, stories and generosity is hugely appreciated.

And of course thanks to Paul Weller! For the music - the live gigs - the story arc of 50 years from the creation of The Jam with Steve Brookes to now - and here's hoping for some time with Paul in the future for what will undoubtably be an epic interview at some point in the future right ?

Episode 100 - takes us to Ripley - the Surrey village that is home to Paul’s studio Black Barn - and also home for Paul’s mum - Ann Weller.I always had Ann in mind as our centenary episode guest as was absolutely delighted to get a YES to my request - INCREDIBLE!Ann is not just Paul's mum - but she has been a key player in his story from The Jam to now - together with John, her dear late husband , Paul and Nicky’s father, who managed The Jam, The Style Council and Paul Solo for over 30 years, until his sad passing in 2009.This was an absolute honour to spend time with Ann chatting over a cuppa and scone and a very special chat…

I hope you enjoy - and thanks again for listening to our journey so far...

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 or our new official merchandise at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store

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Chris Bangs has been a pioneering and inspirational figure in the British underground dance scene and helped to light up the burgeoning black music dance scene of the early eighties. Towards the end of the 80s, Chris really hit pay dirt as a musical trend-setter with the invention of Acid Jazz genre and as a producer and artist responsible for many early recordings on Eddie Piller's Acid Jazz label and Gilles Peterson's Talkin' Loud (producing Galliano's celebrated debut album). His talents were soon spotted outside of the acid jazz scene with Paul Weller utilising Chris' production skills on one of the stand out tracks from his debut solo album - Above The Clouds. The song is a favourite of so many fans, and Paul still features it on current tours.This liaison led to a partnership with Paul's former Style Council-er Mick Talbot as Yada Yada AKA SoundscapeUK - one of a whole range of projects marked by the Bangs stamp that have secured commercial and critical acclaim from the USA, Japan, Europe and Australia.Have a listen to our podcast chat with a surprise special guest popping up during our conversation too!

Find out more in the show notes for this podcast at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-99-chris-bangs

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 or our new official merchandise at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store

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In 1979, twelve-year-old Den Davis went to see The Jam play at Manchester Apollo and his world changed forever. As we hear on this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, a few months later when Den started a Sunday morning paper round, he struck a deal with the shop to save every magazine and paper that mentioned The Jam, and Den would deliver the papers for free. It didn’t matter to Den if they were the cool music press like the NME and Melody Maker or the likes of Jackie and Look In. He wanted them all.So began the start of his journey to collecting anything and everything about the band fronted by Paul Weller, amassing the largest collection of vinyl and memorabilia in the world.We talk about that collection, and how he had to rebuild after the 1996 Manchester bombing, and hear all about The Jam: Cover Stars - Den's new and exclusive exhibition of original and iconic Magazine and Music Press covers from around the world that show The Jam throughout their amazing six-year career from 1977 to 1982. Den saw The Jam 39 times between then and end of December 1982 - the final tour, he first met the band in 1981, started The Jam Tapes Collection service in April 1982, saw The Style Council 52 times live and Paul Weller solo over 100 times!.Find out more in the show notes for this podcast at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-98-den-davis

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 or our new official merchandise at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store

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As much as I love talking to the musicians, the singers and the songwriters, the producers and engineers, the music industry promoters, tour managers, road crew, band members, journalists and others, who have worked and collaborated with Paul Weller, this podcast was always intended to be a voice for the fans to share their memories of The Jam, The Style Council and Paul Weller… So many of these fans are just great story-tellers with great stories to tell, able to paint a picture on what the man and his music has meant to them over the years. This is another one of those very special episodes - with a man who is a regular in the front row at Weller gigs, on the forums and at events.

My latest podcast guest is Shane Juson. We'll hear about his discovery of The Jam in 1979 - singles albums, live gigs, soundchecks, band meetings and more... We'll hear about his love of The Style Council and Paul Weller solo - from the early Movement gigs in 1990 and front-row adventures on every tour since (he's even got the t-shirts to prove it!).We'll also hear about some pretty wonderful and bizarre moments too.For example, watching Paul Weller's reactions at Black Barn, whilst listening to some of On Sunset on the day after the final recordings to having his photo taken by Paul next to the famous Stanley Road jukebox and being driven round the corner by Paul in his mini, for a tea and scone at The Nest with Charles Rees, Tom Van Heel & another superfan, Keiko Egawa…You can find photos that tie in to our conversation on my website, and join here for Shane's Facebook Group - Absolute Beginners The Jam.

Another very special episode. Have a listen - share on your social media channels - and leave a 5-star review wherever you get your podcasts...

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 or our new official merchandise at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store

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What a blast to be joined by singer, songwriter, musician Debsey Wykes on this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast.In 1978, she formed the British post-punk pop-band Dolly Mixture with guitarist, Rachel Bor and drummer, Hester Smith.We'll hear about their journey from complete amateurs to John Peel sessions, to supporting The Jam in the Summer of 1980 and signing to Paul Weller's Respond Record label...They were part of the initial label line up with The Rimshots , The Questions and Tracie!Whilst on the label, they released two singles, Been Teen in 1981 and Everything and More in 1982 - both produced by Captain Sensible and Paul Gray from The Damned...We also hear how, in 1982, something rather odd happened as Captain Sensible unexpectedly had a huge summer feelgood hit with a cover of the South Pacific song, Happy Talk - which featured Dolly Mixture on backing vocals.Find more information , including a playlist of the music that we talked about at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-96-debsey-wykes

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 or our new official merchandise at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store

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In this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I'm joined by Phil Veacock - best-known as the main arranger, musical director and tenor saxophonist of Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra.Phil has multiple connections and credits with Paul Weller with arrangements and performances on every Weller album since 2017's A Kind Revolution, right through to 2021's number one LP, Fat Pop (Volume 1).They'd actually played together before then with Paul's multiple appearances on Jools Holland's TV Shows - Later... and Hootenanny. Plus in 2012, in honour of Sir Paul McCartney turning 70, Paul covered 'Birthday' by The Beatles and made it available to download for one day only - as you'll hear in our chat Phil played on that version of the song.And we shouldn't forget the stunning cover of September in the Rain for a Jools Holland album in the same year, for which Phil led on arrangements working closely with Paul Weller throughout.

A huge fan of soul music - Phil has worked with THE greatest names in the genre. Legends like: Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Smokey Robinson, Al Green, Pops & Mavis Staples, Booker T, Candi Staton, Chaka Khan, George Benson, Solomon Burke, Barry White, Sam Moore, Edwin Starr and Eddie Floyd.

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 or our new official merchandise at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store

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Nicky Weller joins The Paul Weller Fan Podcast for a bonus episode to share the latest news regarding the This Is The Modern World exhibition in Brighton this Summer.

It promises to be the biggest ever collection of previously unseen The Jam & The Style Council memorabilia, launches in its spiritual home of Brighton on Saturday 30th July 2022 and runs through until Monday 31st August 2022.

Expect to witness the band's formative years in the 'Stanley Road room', including Paul's own school books and archive family photo's from the early years. Each room will include iconic items from each year of the band's career with the ultimate vinyl collections together with a mass of memorabilia and the band's instruments, including Paul's iconic Whaaam! guitar and stunning mod-wear flanked by customised Jam scooters.

Nicky Weller comments, "If you're a Jam fan there's every single thing you can possibly imagine, if you're not a fan it's still interesting as far as social history goes. If you're just a music fan it's just a noisy fun exhibition".

She continues, "I'm so excited that we will be taking “This Is The Modern World" to Brighton this year with the biggest collection of previously unseen The Jam & The Style Council memorabilia on show - just a stones throw from the last ever live gig at the Brighton centre in 1982".

Get your tickets at thisisthemodernworld.net

This Is The Modern World - the ultimate exhibition for The Jam & The Style Council memorabilia.

Produced by AGMP and sponsored by Visit Brighton.

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My latest guest is the former music mogul and legendary concert promoter Tim Parsons. It was a real joy to hear his stories from starting out as a "humper" (someone to move equipment) at an ELO gig to promoting Jasper Carrott, punk bands and heavy metal and the mighty Midland Concert Promotions which started in started in January 1978 with Tim and Maurice Jones.It as part of MCP, that Tim worked closely with both The Jam and The Style Council along with the likes of U2, INXS, Simply Red, The Police, Dire Straits, The Boomtown Rats, Oasis and Bon Jovi.We hear about his respect and love for John Weller (Paul's dad and manager ), we hear about the characters in the set up - the likes of Kenny Wheeler, Dave Liddle (Guitar Tech), Ian Harvey (Production Manager) and Ray 'Rat' Salter (Monitor Desk). From the mid-80s to mid-90s, MCP were undoubtedly the biggest in the business. At the height of their success they were putting on hundreds of shows each year, including open air shows in the summer and annual festivals such as Monsters of Rock.We also talk about his involvement in Live Aid in 1985, Oasis at Knebworth in 1996 and much more...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 or our new official merchandise at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/store

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Paul Weller's "Story of 66" – A Journey of Musical Collaboration

This episode offers an intimate glimpse into the making of this remarkable LP, highlighting the collaborative spirit and creative joy that define it.

Sumudu's journey in music is as diverse as it is inspiring. Growing up in a family of Sri Lankan doctors who migrated to the UK, she was exposed to a rich tapestry of musical influences. From classical music and The Beatles to jazz and contemporary pop, her eclectic taste laid the foundation for her versatile career. Her early experiences with the National Jazz Orchestra and her eventual transition from medicine to music are testaments to her passion and dedication.

One of the highlights of our conversation was Sumudu's recounting of her sessions with Paul Weller. Describing his studio as a homely and inspiring space filled with beautiful instruments and art, she felt an immediate connection. "Working with Paul Weller felt like being with family; it was so comfortable and natural," she shares. This sense of ease and mutual respect is evident in the tracks they worked on together, including "Jumble Queen" and "Soul Wandering."

"Jumble Queen," originally titled "Take," features powerful backing vocals by Sumudu and Louise Marshall. The song, with lyrics by Noel Gallagher, showcases a blend of soulful harmonies and energetic instrumentation. Her excitement about the track was palpable as she described the quick, efficient recording process and Paul Weller's decisive direction.

"Soul Wandering," another standout track, features lyrics by Bobby Gillespie. Sumudu's powerful vocals, layered with Louise's, create a raw, gospel-like sound that perfectly complements the song's riff-driven melody. "Paul had a clear vision of what he wanted, and it was exhilarating to bring that to life," she recalls.

Beyond her work with Paul Weller, Sumudu's career is filled with notable collaborations. From touring with Jools Holland to contributing to film soundtracks like "Jurassic World Dominion," her versatility as a musician is truly remarkable. Her ability to seamlessly transition between genres and settings is a testament to her skill and adaptability.

As we wrapped up our conversation, Sumudu reflected on the importance of not pigeonholing artists into specific genres. "I find it bizarre when people ask me what kind of singer I am because I enjoy all genres," she said. This open-minded approach to music is what makes her contributions to "Story of 66" so special.

If you're a fan of Paul Weller or simply love discovering new music, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear more about Sumudu's journey, her experiences working with Paul Weller, and the magic behind "Story of 66." You won't be disappointed.

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I'm delighted to be joined by musician, singer, songwriter, composer, and record producer - Rod Argent.In a career spanning more than 50 years, Rod is the keyboardist, founder and leader of the English rock band The Zombies.

Their second album Odessey and Oracle is often mentioned by Paul Weller as his all time favourite.Rod has had an incredible career - continuing to perform live and release new music with The Zombies - he was also once part of Ringo Starr's All-Starr Band and has recorded with The Who, Chris Rea, Roger Daltrey, Paul Carrack and Andrew Lloyd Webber. He's also been producer for the likes of Gilbert O'Sullivan, Tanita Tikaram and Nanci Griffith.

In 2018, Paul Weller released his 14th solo album True Meanings, with Rod Argent contributing to two stand out tracks (on an album full of stand out tracks!) - he plays Hammond organ on The Soul Searchers and Mellotron & Piano on White Horses.

You can find more info on Rod's music in my show notes at paulwellerfanpodcast.com/episode-92-rod-argent

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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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 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

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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

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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!.

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.

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).

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.

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

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Steve Brookes joins us on the podcast to tell his story of 66.

Steve plays acoustic guitar on I Woke Up.

The Magic Behind Paul Weller's New Album '66': An Exclusive Insight with Steve Brookes

Paul Weller, the legendary singer, songwriter, and musician, has once again graced us with a new album, '66'. This podcast series takes you behind the scenes to explore the creative process and collaborations that brought this album to life. In this episode, we are joined by none other than Steve Brookes, Weller's childhood friend and musical collaborator.

Steve's connection with Paul Weller spans over fifty years, starting from their days of creating The Jam together. This deep-rooted friendship and musical synergy have continued to flourish, with contributions to Weller's albums from '22 Dreams' to the present '66'. Their journey together is a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and shared passion for music.

One of the standout tracks on '66' is "I Woke Up," which features Steve Brookes on acoustic guitar, Richard Hawley on lap steel, Paul Weller on bass and acoustic, and beautifully orchestrated strings by Hannah Peel and the Britten Sinfonia. This track, which opens side two of the album, is a perfect example of the collaborative spirit that defines '66'.

Steve shares his experience of recording the intricate classical guitar part, a technically challenging piece that he was determined to perfect.

The episode also delves into a memorable charity gig in Liverpool at the end of 2023, where Steve performed alongside Paul Weller and other talented musicians. The camaraderie and shared experiences during their journey to the gig highlight the personal and professional bonds that have shaped their music. His anecdotes about their conversations on the road, touching on music, aging, and life, offer a glimpse into the genuine friendship that underpins their collaboration.

Steve also reflects on the importance of meaningful feedback from respected peers in the music industry. He recalls the profound impact of receiving praise from Danny Thompson, a revered figure in the music business. Such moments of recognition are invaluable, affirming the hard work and dedication that go into creating music.

As the conversation unfolds, Steve reveals the meticulous yet spontaneous nature of Weller's creative process. From last-minute setlist changes to impromptu new song performances, Paul's dynamic approach keeps his collaborators on their toes, ensuring that the music remains fresh and exciting.

For fans of Paul Weller and those curious about the behind-the-scenes magic of music production, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and stories.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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 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

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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.comThanks 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

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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.comThanks 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

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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.comThanks 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

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Ben Gordelier has been playing drums, percussion and performing samples with Paul Weller since 2012's Sonik Kicks gigs at London's Roundhouse.

Sharing his story of the new Paul Weller album - 66 - Ben is the only person, aside from Paul, to play on every track on the LP.

Step into the World of Paul Weller’s “66” with Ben Gordelier

As a dedicated fan of Paul Weller, you're in for a treat with the latest episode of our podcast, where we continue our deep dive into the making of his 17th solo studio album, "66".

From the snowy streets of Japan to the sun-soaked stages of Australia, Ben takes us on a journey through the recent tours, sharing anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories that highlight the unique experiences of performing live across different cultures. The contrast between the serene, attentive audiences in Japan and the lively, enthusiastic crowds in Australia paints a vivid picture of the global reach and impact of Weller's music.

One of the standout aspects of "66" is its collaborative nature. Ben discusses the intricate process of creating the album, where each track is a testament to the collective effort of the band. He highlights the role of Christophe Vaillant from Le SuperHomard, who contributed to the sonic soundscapes on a couple of songs, and Hannah Peel, whose orchestration adds a beautiful layer to many of the tracks. The album is a rich tapestry of sounds, each instrument playing a crucial role in building the overall texture.

Ben also shares his personal experiences at the legendary Abbey Road Studios, a place steeped in musical history. He describes the awe of being in such an iconic space and the meticulous process of capturing the perfect sound. For fans of Weller and music enthusiasts alike, these insights into the recording process are both fascinating and inspiring.

The episode doesn't shy away from discussing the challenges of creating a setlist from Weller's extensive back catalogue. Ben talks about the excitement and difficulty of introducing new songs to the live set, ensuring that each performance remains fresh and engaging. The camaraderie and shared passion within the band are evident as they navigate these decisions, always striving to deliver the best possible experience for their fans.

"66" is an album that reflects Weller's enduring creativity and his ability to evolve as an artist. Ben's anecdotes and detailed explanations provide a deeper understanding of the album's creation, making it a must-listen for anyone who appreciates Weller's music. 

So, if you're ready to immerse yourself in the world of Paul Weller's "66" and gain a new perspective on the music you love, tune into this episode. You'll come away with a greater appreciation for the artistry and dedication that goes into making each album a masterpiece.

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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.comThanks 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

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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.comThanks 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

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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.comThanks 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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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 - www.coloramarecords.com/releases

ONE - PAUL WELLER - Documentary - On YouTube

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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)

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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 Pyre, 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)

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Tom Doyle is an acclaimed music journalist, author, and one half of White Label, a writing/production duo (with Anth Brown) who have collaborated with Paul on various special releases over the past decade.

Tom shares the story behind their co-write In Full Flight from the latest Paul Weller album - 66.

Paul Weller's Creative Odyssey: The Making of "66"

Few artists have managed to remain as influential and relevant as Paul Weller over the past 50 years.

With his 17th solo studio album, "66", he once again proves his prowess as a musical visionary.

Our latest podcast episode takes you on an enthralling journey into the making of this remarkable album, featuring an insightful conversation with acclaimed music journalist Tom Doyle.

Tom is one half of the writing and production duo White Label (the other half being Anth Brown), who have been key collaborators with Paul Weller over the past decade. Their partnership has seen the creation of several standout tracks, and in this episode, Tom shares the fascinating behind-the-scenes stories of their creative process.

One of the highlights of "66" is the track "In Full Flight," a song that epitomises the collaborative spirit of the album. Tom recounts how the song began with a late-night voice memo from Paul Weller, capturing the raw essence of his creative spark. This memo, filled with acoustic guitar chords and vocal ideas, became the foundation for a track that would undergo a transformative journey.

Tom describes the process as "remixing a song that doesn’t exist yet," a unique approach that involved deconstructing Weller's initial ideas and layering them with additional instrumentation and vocals. The result is a track that feels both immersive and atmospheric, taking listeners on a sonic journey that is quintessentially Weller.

We also discover how a creative spark from White Label led to the soulful backing vocals of Say She She being brought in on the song too.

The episode also delves into the broader context of the album, highlighting the eclectic mix of styles and influences that define "66." Each track is a testament to Weller's ability to bring together diverse talents and create something truly special.

The episode offers a rare glimpse into the world of music production, revealing the meticulous attention to detail that goes into crafting songs of this calibre.

For fans of Paul Weller and music enthusiasts alike, this episode is a must-listen. It not only celebrates the release of "66" but also provides a deeper understanding of the creative process behind the music. Whether you're a long-time admirer of Weller's work or a newcomer to his sound, this podcast offers something for everyone.

So, tune in, turn up the volume, and immerse yourself in the story of "66." You won't be disappointed.

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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

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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)

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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

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Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.