Introduction

A singular, evolutionary voice who embodies influence and individuality, since 1977 Paul Weller has moved with and against the times, frequently inspiring and confounding his audiences. In retrospect, the musician and the music are frequently considered both timeless and of their time. Occupying a rarefied commercial level with contemporaries Madness and The Police, between 1979 and 1982 The Jam regularly made records that sold over 100,000 copies in the United Kingdom alone. In the 2015 film ‘About the Young Idea’ the consensus held by guest narrators including actor Martin Freeman, is that The Jam had a profound influence, not only on their musical tastes but also on their attitudes towards life. Although an audience of only 240 attended an early solo show at Newport Leisure Centre, by performing incendiary live shows and making increasingly fine records, Weller gradually rebuilt his audience.