Paul Weller and Popular Music: Identity, Idiolect and Image

Using research, analysis and a range of historical sources, Paul Weller and Popular Music immerses the reader in the excitement of Paul Weller’s unique creative journey, covering topics such as the artist’s position within his field; his creative processes; the contexts in which the music was made; the artist as collaborator; signifiers that mark the trajectory of the music; and formative influences. Focusing on over 40 years of recorded work from ’In the City’ to ’Fat Pop (Volume One)’, this study explores why Paul Weller’s music is widely considered both timeless and of its time, and with reference to a wide range of interviews, reviews and texts, it offers an in-depth critical analysis of Paul Weller’s music. It will be of particular interest to scholars and researchers of popular music, popular culture, performance studies and music production.

Andrew West is a Professor and Head of Postgraduate Studies at Leeds Conservatoire, UK.