Photos by Sharon Steele – Paul Weller is a British singer, songwriter, and musician born on May 25, 1958, in Woking, Surrey, England. He is one of the most influential figures in British music, particularly known for his role in shaping the punk, mod revival, and Britpop movements.
Early Career: The Jam (1972–1982)
Paul Weller rose to fame in the late 1970s as the frontman of The Jam, a band that combined punk rock energy with mod and soul influences. The Jam became one of the most successful British bands of the time, producing hits such as:
- “Going Underground”
- “Town Called Malice”
- “That’s Entertainment”
Their sharp social commentary, catchy tunes, and distinct English identity helped them achieve widespread acclaim. The band disbanded at the height of its popularity in 1982, as Weller sought new creative directions.
The Style Council (1983–1989)
After The Jam, Weller formed The Style Council in 1983, a band that embraced a more diverse range of sounds, from soul and jazz to R&B and funk. The Style Council had notable hits like:
- “Shout to the Top!”
- “My Ever Changing Moods”
- “Walls Come Tumbling Down”
Though less commercially successful than The Jam, The Style Council allowed Weller to experiment musically, reflecting his broader artistic ambitions.
Solo Career (1990–Present)
Weller embarked on a solo career in the early 1990s, with his self-titled debut album released in 1992. His solo work was marked by a return to a more guitar-driven, roots-oriented sound, blending rock, soul, and folk influences. His 1995 album “Stanley Road” became a defining moment, featuring hits such as “The Changingman” and “You Do Something to Me.”
Weller is often referred to as “The Modfather” due to his role in popularizing the mod culture, and he is seen as a significant influence on later generations of British musicians, including bands like Oasis and Blur.
Some of his later works include:
- “22 Dreams” (2008)
- “Sonik Kicks” (2012)
- “On Sunset” (2020)
Awards and Legacy
Weller has won numerous awards throughout his career, including BRIT Awards and an Ivor Novello Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010. His enduring influence on British music, spanning more than four decades, has made him a cultural icon in the UK.
