Paul Weller Fan Podcast

In this episode, recorded for my book, Paul Lester -now editor of Record Collector and longtime music journalist - reflects on his career, his encounters with Paul Weller, and the makings of his celebrated Uncut Magazine cover story, 'Paul Weller: Up Close and Personal - Last Man Standing' (December 1998).

We discuss the enduring influence of meaningful, passionate music journalism.
Paul Weller’s restless creativity and refusal to be pinned down by his past.
The rare trust and intimacy possible in extended, thoughtful interviews.
Paul Lester’s perspective on the continuing story of Weller and his place in British music history.
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In this episode, Acid Jazz records co-owner, Dean Rudland shares his lifelong musical journey and personal relationship with the world of Paul Weller
From being pulled into music by The Beatles and The Jam, through finding his own identity in Mod, to eventually working with and around the Weller orbit, Dean gives an insider’s perspective on cultural movements - and Paul Weller’s unique gift for making fans feel part of something bigger.
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Percussionist Joe Beckett share his stories from inside a pivotal, often-overlooked chapter in Paul Weller’s career: the Paul Weller Movement. Joe recalls the unique circumstances that landed him in the band, from chance club gigs to a spontaneous audition at Solid Bond Studios, and the creative camaraderie that followed.

He takes us on the road in 1990, from a packed Dingwalls debut surrounded by mods and scooters, across Europe and the UK, to the final triumphant night at London’s Town & Country Club, later immortalized by the BBC.

Along the way, Joe details the evolution of new tracks like 'Kosmos' and 'New Thing,' reflects on the enduring power of Paul Weller’s work ethic, and relives the camaraderie and chaos that defined life as a working musician in a high-pressure, high-energy band finding its feet.
Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com
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In this episode, music writer Chas De Whalley recalls discovering The Jam after a last-minute tip-off that led him to see them at the Nashville Rooms and review them for Sounds magazine. He reflects on the charged early gigs, their breakthrough shows at the The Roxy, and the fast-moving record deal with Polydor Records.
Chas also shares memories of travelling with the band, visiting the Weller family home and seeing Ann Weller run the fan club operation, while watching Paul Weller rapidly develop as a songwriter.
Our conversation also revisits the chaos of the Reading Festival 1978 and concludes with reflections on friendship, music history, and his later work with U2.
Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com
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In this episode, I’m joined by acclaimed live film director Matt Askem, a creative force behind some of the most iconic concert films of the last 25 years. From capturing the raw intensity of Paul Weller on stage to working with global superstars like Adele, U2, Muse and Take That, Matt has spent decades translating live music into cinematic storytelling.
We dive into the making of Weller’s 2000s concert films, the challenges of filming massive crowds versus intimate venues, and how Matt’s perspective has evolved from fast-cut MTV-era energy to a more timeless visual style. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from Hyde Park, Braehead, Studio 150, and the legendary 100 Club, along with reflections on creativity, collaboration, and what makes artists like Weller so enduring.
It’s a fascinating conversation about music, filmmaking, and the art of capturing performance at its most authentic.
Check out Matt's incredible portfolio here
Find podcast show notes and sign up for regular information at PaulWellerFanPodcast.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.