In this episode of the podcast, I am joined by Ted Kessler - a music writer who’s lived out the ultimate fan’s journey with Paul Weller.As a London kid, he spent his pocket money on Jam singles and memorised the lyrics before he even owned the records. After moving to Paris, he’d receive the NME a week late, schooling himself on Weller, The Style Council, and British pop by long-distance.Years later, Ted found himself writing for the very paper he once treated as gospel. Over decades at NME and Q, he’s interviewed Paul Weller, reviewed his gigs and albums, and - more than once - found himself on the receiving end of the artist’s forthright opinions, including the infamous “get the train to Woking and try it” challenge after a mixed Stanley Road review.Ted is also the author of the memoir Paper Cuts: How I Destroyed The British Music Press and Other Misdemeanours (which includes a heap of Paul Weller related stories), and To Ease My Troubled Mind: the Authorised Unauthorised Biography of Billy Childish. He also devised and edited My Old Man: Tales Of Our Fathers (which included a contribution from Paul about his dad, John). Ted also co-edits The New Cue, a music newsletter delivered three times a week to subscribers.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My guest on this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast is one of the most inventive and distinctive guitarists of his generation - the co-founder and guitarist of Blur, a prolific solo artist, and a musician whose restless creativity has taken him from Britpop to freeform jazz, from noisy riffs to tender melodies.Graham Coxon has collaborated with Paul Weller on some fantastic projects over the years - the sharp-edged 'This Old Town' (2007), the soulful 'Black River' from the 22 Dreams album in 2008 and the swirling 'Dragonfly' from Sonik Kicks being just some examples, along with the gloriously chaotic 'Bankbusted Nuclear Detergent Blues', alongside Weller, Damon Albarn, and the poet Michael Horovitz.From discovering The Jam as a teenager and picking up his sister’s old guitar, to standing on stage years later beside his musical hero - this is the story of admiration, influence, and a shared love of great British songwriting.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I chat to Cat Santos and Sodge Adams, two of the creative minds behind Fifth Column, the pioneering screen-printing collective that helped define the look of Punk and Mod culture in late-1970s London.Fifth Column started when a group of friends decided to design and print - by hand - punk rock t-shirts for bands like X-Ray Spex, The Clash, The Jam, and The Damned. After creating the artwork on paper and curing the shirts in tumble dryers at a laundrette on Kilburn High Road, they sold them outside London gigs.From Camden Market and Kings Road to working with Paul Weller, John Weller, Cat and Sodge share memories of printing iconic imagery, climbing drainpipes to get into gigs, and living the chaos and creativity of the era.As the conversation unfolds, they reflect on how the Punk ethos evolved into political activism through Red Wedge and campaigns like Anti-Apartheid and Coal Not Dole. From surviving a devastating factory fire to designing artwork for All Mod Cons and Setting Sons, Fifth Column’s story is one of resilience, collaboration, and rebellion.It’s a vivid portrait of DIY innovation - and of how a few friends with screens, ink, and ideas helped shape the visual identity of a generation.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Jonathan Ross has been a familiar face and voice in British broadcasting since the late 1980s. From his early days hosting Channel 4’s The Last Resort, he’s gone on to become one of the country’s most recognisable presenters, known for his sharp humour and genuine curiosity. Whether it’s chatting with global superstars on The Jonathan Ross Show, judging the wild antics on The Masked Singer, or sharing his love of film on “Reel Talk” with his daughter Honey, Jonathan’s career has always been about connecting with people and celebrating culture in all its forms.Yet, for all the celebrity encounters and TV moments, Jonathan is, at heart, a passionate music fan - and Paul Weller’s work has been a constant thread through his life. In this episode, recorded for my book Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire - The Authorised Oral History, Jonathan shares his memories of buying The Jam’s 'In the City' on release day, hitchhiking to see the band as a teenager, and later welcoming Weller onto his TV shows at pivotal moments in his solo career. It’s a conversation about the thrill of punk, the evolution of fandom, and the enduring power of Paul Weller’s music to inspire, challenge, and connect.Order your copy of the book at geni.us/dancingthroughthefireFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My guest on this episode is Paul Moody - journalist, author, musician (his band is The Studio 68!), and a man whose journey with Paul Weller’s music has spanned decades.From discovering The Jam as a teenager in North London, to interviewing Paul for the NME during the Stanley Road era, to the DVD interviews for As Is Now and writing sleeve notes for Wake Up the Nation...We talk about the seismic impact of The Jam, the Style Council and Paul's ability to push boundaries, the creative rebirth of the solo years, and what it’s like to go from being in the crowd to sitting in Paul’s living room.This is a dive into fandom, music journalism, and the enduring legacy of one of Britain’s greatest songwriters...Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week on The Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I’m joined by Phil Bickley - founder of London menswear store Tonic and co-creator of the Paul Weller clothing label Real Stars Are Rare.Phil’s story is a fascinating mix of music, fashion, and friendship. We talk about how his admiration for The Style Council soundtracked his post-rave comedowns in the early ’90s, how Weller first walked into his shop and bought a belt, and how that encounter led to a full-blown creative partnership.From sketching ideas on scraps of paper to launching a successful menswear brand, Phil shares what it was like working side by side with one of Britain’s most stylish musicians. We also explore the challenges of balancing creativity with business realities - and the mutual respect that kept their collaboration grounded.Phil’s insights into Weller’s eye for clothes, his “upside-down triangle” physique, and the shared spirit behind Real Stars Are Rare offer a new perspective on Paul’s lifelong relationship with style and substance.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this conversation for my Dancing Through the Fire book, I chat with Pippa Hall, whose time at Go! Discs saw her at the heart of Paul Weller’s solo resurgence. Pippa offers a fascinating insight into the inner workings of one of the UK’s most beloved record labels, describing the family atmosphere that made the label so special and the excitement of being part of Weller’s creative rebirth in the 1990s.We hear about the challenges of getting Paul’s music the attention it deserved in the early days, the thrill of hearing Wild Wood for the first time at The Manor, and the unforgettable experience of working on the Help album at Abbey Road.Pippa also reflects on the changing landscape of the music industry, the ups and downs of label life, and her enduring friendship with Paul.From dealing with journalists and press controversies to the personal connections that shaped her career, this conversation is packed with anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories that shed new light on a pivotal era for Paul Weller and British music. Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Singer-songwriter Kathryn Williams returns to the podcast to talk about her brand-new album Mystery Park - a deeply personal and reflective record that includes a beautiful co-write with Paul Weller, 'Gossamer Wings'. Kathryn shares the story of how the song came together, from her initial “cringe” moment of writing at Paul to their eventual collaboration, which also saw Weller add Hammond organ and backing vocals. We also revisit their earlier work together on 'So Quietly' from his 66 Supplement EP, a track that also featured legendary bassist Danny Thompson.In our wide-ranging chat, Kathryn reflects on family, songwriting, and creativity - whether that’s balancing life on the road with raising teenage sons, painting her own album cover, or uncovering the emotions behind her lyrics. We also talk about her Patreon community, live shows, and the joy of finding connection through art. Always funny, thoughtful, and generous, Kathryn offers a warm and honest insight into her music and her collaborations with Weller.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We’re back! Focusing on Paul Weller’s new covers album, Find El Dorado, with special guests sharing their stories and connections to the songs. Plus, exclusive episodes celebrating the release of my book – Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire: The Authorised Oral History, which has just been published!Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sir Lenny Henry is a British icon. For decades, he’s been a force in comedy, acting, writing, and activism. But what’s less discussed is his deep connection to music - and, in particular, his admiration for Paul Weller and The Jam, The Style Council, and Weller’s solo work.In another real 'pinch me' moment, I caught up with Lenny for my book, Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire - The Authorised Oral History to explore this musical thread running through his life and career... including a stand out performance joining The Style Council live on TV and performing a song on Our Favourite Shop!Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today is the day! Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire is officially out in the world - It’s in the shops, available to order online, people are sharing photos, and Paul himself has a copy in his hands, and he loves it! I can’t quite believe it. Thanks to everyone involved. What a ride and an honour.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My guest on this episode is Tim Burgess - frontman of The Charlatans, solo artist, DJ, author, and the man behind the hugely popular Twitter Listening Parties.Long before his own band became one of the defining acts of the ’90s, Tim was a kid in the late ’70s flipping Jam singles at his dad’s youth club, soaking up every note of Paul Weller’s music.That teenage fandom never went away.In this episode we talk about how Paul’s songs shaped Tim’s early years, the influence of The Style Council on his own outlook, and how, years later, Paul Weller went from hero to collaborator and friend.From surprise phone calls and festival appearances to studio sessions at Black Barn, this is a conversation full of stories that chart Tim’s journey from fanboy to peer.From school discos and loafers to Los Angeles dinners and festival encores, Tim shares the stories of how Weller’s music inspired him, and how that bond grew into friendship and collaboration.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nick Knight CBE is one of the most influential image makers of our time.As the founder of SHOWstudio and a visionary fashion photographer, his work with designers such as Alexander McQueen, John Galliano and Yohji Yamamoto, and musicians including Björk, Lady Gaga and Kanye West, has defined modern culture.In this episode, Nick joins me to talk about his long creative relationship with Paul Weller.From photographing The Style Council at Solid Bond Studios through to the striking imagery of Paul’s early solo career, Nick shares the stories behind some of Weller’s most memorable visuals. We discuss:His first encounters with The Jam and The Style CouncilWhat made Paul Weller such a compelling subject to photographThe influences behind iconic shoots, including the inner sleeve of Our Favourite Shop and the debut solo album coverThe role of fashion, style and visual culture in Weller’s musicNick’s reflections on music, image-making, and capturing emotion through photographyFind podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this episode my guest is one of Britain’s most distinctive comedians, an award-winning stand-up, actor, writer, and the creator of the brilliant TV sitcom, Lead Balloon.Jack Dee has always had a sharp wit, a dry outlook, and as it turns out, a deep, long-standing admiration for both Paul Weller and his music.In this episode, a snippet of the interview recorded for my upcoming book, Jack shares how The Jam gave him an ‘alibi’ in the late seventies, his surreal moments sharing a bill with Weller, and how a Paul Weller track ended up as the theme tune to his hit sitcom. We also explore the parallels between comedy and music, his admiration for Weller’s constant evolution, and a few unforgettable encounters along the way. Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I’m joined by singer-songwriter Amelia Coburn - an artist whose distinctive voice, storytelling flair, and genre-blurring style have won her fans far beyond the folk world. Amelia’s connection to Weller began with her wonderful ukulele cover of Down in the Tube Station at Midnight, which eventually caught Paul’s ear via Shindig! magazine’s John Mills. This story leads to a beautiful collaboration on Paul Weller’s new album Find El Dorado, where Amelia’s vocals feature on the Christy Moore song 'One Last Cold Kiss'.We talk about her musical upbringing, the influence of The Jam, the decade-long journey to her debut album Between the Moon and the Milkman, and the stories behind songs like 'Dublin Serenade', 'Nodding Dog', and 'Sandra'. Amelia also shares how it feels to be championed by one of her heroes, her hopes for future collaborations, and exciting plans for album number two.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Declan O'Rourke is my guest on this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast - another huge talent and always a delight to talk to. Warm, humorous, super-smart and clearly a huge talent.This time around we talk Find El Dorado and the opening song - a duet between Paul and Declan - a cover of Richie Havens’ 'Handouts in the Rain' - a song that is undeniably beautiful with the juxtaposition that it reflects on humanity’s repeated failures - violence, prejudice, and exploitation - while warning of the inevitable consequences: alienation, shame, and destitution.Written during the 1970s, its verses reflect on personal and societal cruelty, from harming neighbours and foreigners to betraying women and misleading children. The refrain - "taking handouts in the rain” - is a powerful image of collective downfall, suggesting that those who perpetuate harm will ultimately share in suffering and marginalisation.As Paul and Declan cover the song decades later, its relevance has not diminished. In today’s world, issues of xenophobia, social division, and generational mistrust remain pressing. The song’s critique of scapegoating, violence, and inherited prejudice resonates just as strongly, if not more so, amid ongoing global conflicts, refugee crises, and polarised societies.Both versions underscore how cycles of blame and cruelty lead only to mutual ruin - a message as urgent now as when Havens first sang it.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week’s guest on the Paul Weller Fan Podcast is Tony Harlow, one of the most influential figures in the modern music industry and the current Chairman & CEO of Warner Music UK.CEO of Richard Branson’s V2 Records during Paul Weller's time at the label, their professional paths have crossed again more recently, with Paul signing back with Warner's Parlophone label for Find El Dorado.Beyond his work with Paul Weller, Tony Harlow has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of a diverse range of artists. At V2, he championed acts like The White Stripes, Stereophonics, and Moby, while his leadership at Warner Music Australia saw him help launch the global success of Ed Sheeran and Dua Lipa. His approach has always been artist-centric, blending a keen ear for talent with a progressive vision for the industry - evident in his efforts to support independent musicians through initiatives like Co-Op Music, and his recent investments in regional UK studios and digital innovation at Warner.Our chat was for my upcoming Dancing Through the Fire - Paul Weller oral history book, and Tony has kindly let me use the audio for an episode of the podcast. We cover his early days working at Beggars Banquet record shop and going to punk gigs ... to V2 during Paul Weller’s time at the label and the sale of the record label at the point Paul had just finished creating 22 Dreams. Tony shares his memories of working with Paul, his unique relationship with John Weller, and why he believes Paul remains one of the greatest and most enduring artists of our time.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Paul Weller’s new album Find El Dorado, out today via Parlophone, is a reflective, quietly radical covers record reinterpreting tracks discovered through late-night listening, friends’ recommendations, and crate-digging, now given a home in his voice. Produced by Steve Cradock, it features intimate yet polished arrangements and contributions from Declan O’Rourke, Amelia Coburn, Noel Gallagher, Seckou Keita, Robert Plant, Hannah Peel and others. The album opens with Richie Havens’ haunting ‘Handouts In The Rain’ and journeys through obscurities like ‘Daltry Street’ and ‘One Last Cold Kiss’, reimagined classics such as ‘I Started A Joke’ and ‘Nobody’s Fool’, and finishes as an act of listening and reflection. It reveals Weller’s enduring creativity – a glimpse into the five-decade journey told in full in my upcoming authorised oral history Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire, out 11 September, featuring unheard stories and voices from across his remarkable life.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, I’m joined by acclaimed music journalist and broadcaster Pete Paphides to dive into Paul Weller’s new album, Find El Dorado. Pete wrote the liner notes for the album and the cover story for Uncut magazine, so he brings a unique perspective on how the project came together, the inspiration behind the track-list, and why these particular songs were chosen. We talk about Weller’s drive to celebrate lesser-known gems, his collaboration with Steve Cradock (who produces), and the contributions from special guests like Declan O’Rourke, Amelia Coburn, Noel Gallagher, and Robert Plant.We also explore the wider context of Weller’s career - how his voice has evolved, the influence of folk, soul, and psychedelia on this record, and what makes this album stand apart from his recent releases. There are plenty of stories from behind the scenes, reflections on creative partnerships, and even a look ahead to The Jam’s 50th anniversary and my own upcoming book, Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire...Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dean Chalkley is a renowned photographer who, for over three decades, has created authentic and powerful imagery across music, fashion, and culture, capturing everyone from underground pioneers to pop stars with an eye rooted in subcultures like Mod, Northern Soul, and Rudeboy scenes.Originally trained as a tailor, his deep understanding of personal style and cultural movements has informed projects such as Return of the Rudeboy and Young Souls, while his experimental works like New Perspectives continue to push boundaries.Dean has photographed some of the most exciting names in the contemporary music world - including Noel Gallagher, Amy Winehouse, Suede, Boy George, Dizzie Rascal, Jay-Z, Richard Ashcroft, and, of course, Paul Weller !Over the years, he has photographed Paul many times for magazines and supplements like The Sunday Times Magazine, Uncut, and NME, for his record label, his collaborative clothing range with Sunspel in 2021, and most recently for the Find El Dorado album project.A lifelong Mod himself, Dean brings an insider’s understanding of style, attitude, and cultural nuance to every image he creates.Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.