Jonathan Ross on Paul Weller: Punk, Mod, and the Soundtrack of a Lifetime

Early Fandom and Punk Roots

• 💡 Jonathan Ross bought The Jam's 'In the City' on release day and hitchhiked to Canterbury to see them as a teenager.
• 🎯 He became a punk fan after seeing the Sex Pistols on Bill Grundy, attending early gigs by X-Ray Spex and Sham 69.
• ⚠️ Ross found early punk gigs could be intimate but also tribal, recalling an incident where Bruce Foxton was spat on.

Weller's Musical Evolution

• 🧠 Ross appreciated Paul Weller's progression beyond punk, noting tracks like "Tonight at Noon" on the second Jam album.
• ✨ He initially mocked The Style Council but later preferred their jazz and R&B-influenced sound and Weller's more sophisticated style.
• ✅ Ross admires Weller's authenticity and willingness to evolve, comparing his career trajectory to David Bowie's in terms of constant reinvention.

Jonathan Ross's Role in Weller's Solo Career

• 📺 Ross provided early TV exposure for Paul Weller's solo career on his 1991 show, a crucial moment when Weller's career was perceived to be in decline.
• 👏 He continued to host Weller for new album releases, recognizing his established creative force and the widespread fan base.
• 💬 Ross values the genuine conversations with Weller, noting his dry wit and the importance of giving him space to speak during interviews.

Enduring Impact and Personal Connection

• 🚀 Ross believes Weller's work, like early punk, represents a pivotal point in modern pop culture, often underestimated by mainstream media.
• 💖 He highlights the deep, personal connection fans have with Weller's music, which has evolved with them over decades.
• 🔍 Ross expresses a desire to understand Weller's specific motivations for leaving The Jam and his musical influences.