Paul Weller is a British musician, singer, and songwriter who has been an influential figure in the world of music for over four decades. Known for his distinctive voice and songwriting abilities, Weller has been a part of several successful bands such as The Jam and The Style Council, and has also enjoyed a successful solo career. Over the years, Weller has released numerous albums and has won several accolades, including the Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music.
In this article, we take a look at some of Paul Weller’s greatest songs of all time. From his early days with The Jam to his solo work, Weller’s music has touched the hearts of millions of fans around the world. We’ve compiled a list of ten of his most memorable songs that showcase his versatility as a musician and songwriter. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to his music, these tracks are sure to leave a lasting impression on you. So sit back, relax, and take a trip down memory lane with the 10 Best Paul Weller Songs of All Time.
1. The Style Council – Shout to the Top! (1984)
“Shout to the Top!” is a song by The Style Council, which was led by Paul Weller. The track was released in 1984 and quickly became one of the band’s most popular songs. It features a distinctive horn section and catchy melody that perfectly encapsulates the band’s upbeat and soulful style.
The lyrics of “Shout to the Top!” convey a message of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. The song urges listeners to keep pushing forward and never give up on their dreams. Weller’s soulful vocals perfectly complement the uplifting tone of the music, creating a truly memorable and inspiring song.
Overall, “Shout to the Top!” remains a fan favorite and a classic example of The Style Council’s unique blend of soul, pop, and jazz. With its catchy melody, uplifting message, and iconic horn section, it’s easy to see why this song has stood the test of time and remains a beloved track among Paul Weller fans.
2. Wild Wood
“Wild Wood” is a song by Paul Weller, released in 1993. The track is the title song of Weller’s second solo album and is considered one of his most iconic and beloved songs. It features a beautiful acoustic guitar melody, accompanied by Weller’s soulful vocals and a haunting harmonica.
The lyrics of “Wild Wood” speak of escaping to the countryside and embracing the beauty and simplicity of nature. The song has a timeless quality that speaks to the human need for connection with the natural world. Weller’s evocative lyrics and heartfelt delivery make “Wild Wood” a truly unforgettable song that has resonated with fans for decades.
Overall, “Wild Wood” is a beautiful and introspective song that showcases Paul Weller’s talents as both a musician and a lyricist. With its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics, it’s no wonder that this song remains a fan favorite and a classic example of Weller’s distinctive style.
3. The Jam – A Town Called Malice (1982)
“A Town Called Malice” is a classic song by The Jam, fronted by Paul Weller. Released in 1982, it was the band’s first number one hit in the UK and remains one of their most well-known tracks. The song features a catchy guitar riff, driving bassline, and Weller’s distinctive vocals.
The lyrics of “A Town Called Malice” paint a picture of working-class life in a small town, with Weller singing about the frustrations and limitations of living in such an environment. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy, however, provide a sense of hope and optimism, urging listeners to keep pushing forward despite the challenges they face.
Overall, “A Town Called Malice” is a timeless anthem that continues to resonate with audiences today. With its catchy melody and poignant lyrics, it’s no wonder that this song remains a classic example of The Jam’s iconic sound and Paul Weller’s enduring legacy.
4. The Jam – The Eton Rifles (1979)
“The Eton Rifles” is a song by The Jam, fronted by Paul Weller. Released in 1979, it was a hit in the UK and remains one of the band’s most famous tracks. The song features a driving bassline, a catchy guitar riff, and Weller’s distinctive vocals.
The lyrics of “The Eton Rifles” are a scathing critique of the British class system, with Weller taking aim at the privileged elite who attend Eton College. The song’s message of social and political change struck a chord with listeners, making it an anthem for the working-class youth of Britain.
Overall, “The Eton Rifles” is a powerful and influential song that remains relevant to this day. Its message of social justice and equality continues to resonate with audiences, and its catchy melody and infectious energy make it a classic example of The Jam’s unique sound and Paul Weller’s lasting impact on the music industry.
5. The Jam – Going Underground (1980)
“Going Underground” is a song by The Jam, led by Paul Weller. The track was released in 1980 and quickly became the band’s first number one hit in the UK. The song features a driving bassline, energetic drumbeat, and Weller’s distinctive vocals.
The lyrics of “Going Underground” speak of the frustration and disillusionment felt by the youth of Britain at the time, with Weller urging listeners to question authority and seek out their own truths. The song’s infectious energy and catchy melody, coupled with its poignant message, made it an instant classic and an anthem for the working-class youth of Britain.
Overall, “Going Underground” is a powerful and influential song that remains a fan favorite to this day. Its message of social and political change, as well as its timeless sound and energy, make it a classic example of The Jam’s iconic sound and Paul Weller’s lasting impact on the music industry.
6. Paul Weller – Rockets (2020)
“Rockets” is a song by Paul Weller, released in 2020 as a single from his fifteenth solo album, “On Sunset”. The track features a catchy guitar riff, groovy bassline, and Weller’s soulful vocals.
The lyrics of “Rockets” speak of the power of music to transcend time and space, with Weller singing about the way music can transport us to different worlds and connect us with others. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy, coupled with its optimistic message, make it a perfect anthem for our times.
Overall, “Rockets” is a testament to Paul Weller’s enduring creativity and musical talent. Its message of hope and the power of music resonates with audiences, and its catchy melody and groovy rhythm make it a standout track on “On Sunset”.
7. The Jam – That’s Entertainment (1980)
“That’s Entertainment” is a song by The Jam, fronted by Paul Weller. Released in 1980, the track features acoustic guitar, Weller’s distinctive vocals, and a simple yet haunting melody.
The lyrics of “That’s Entertainment” speak of the monotony and disillusionment of everyday life, with Weller singing about the mundane and often depressing aspects of modern society. The song’s bleak message, however, is tempered by its beautiful melody and sense of resignation, making it a poignant and unforgettable song.
Overall, “That’s Entertainment” is a classic example of The Jam’s unique sound and Paul Weller’s songwriting abilities. Its timeless message and haunting melody have resonated with audiences for decades, making it a fan favorite and a classic example of the band’s enduring legacy.
8. The Jam – The Bitterest Pill (I Ever Had To Swallow) (1982)
“The Bitterest Pill (I Ever Had To Swallow)” is a song by The Jam, fronted by Paul Weller. Released in 1982, it was a hit in the UK and features a catchy guitar riff, driving bassline, and Weller’s distinctive vocals.
The lyrics of “The Bitterest Pill” speak of heartbreak and the pain of lost love, with Weller singing about the challenges of moving on and finding closure. The song’s emotional depth and honest portrayal of heartbreak struck a chord with listeners, making it a classic example of The Jam’s unique blend of punk, mod, and soul.
Overall, “The Bitterest Pill” is a powerful and emotional song that showcases Paul Weller’s talents as both a musician and a songwriter. Its message of heartbreak and resilience continues to resonate with audiences today, making it a fan favorite and a classic example of The Jam’s enduring legacy.
9. The Style Council – Walls Come Tumbling Down! (1985)
“Walls Come Tumbling Down!” is a song by The Style Council, led by Paul Weller. Released in 1985, the track features a funky bassline, catchy horn section, and Weller’s soulful vocals.
The lyrics of “Walls Come Tumbling Down!” are a call to action for social and political change, with Weller urging listeners to break down the barriers that divide us and come together to fight for a better world. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious energy, coupled with its optimistic message, make it an anthem for social justice and equality.
Overall, “Walls Come Tumbling Down!” is a powerful and influential song that continues to inspire listeners today. Its message of hope and unity, as well as its groovy sound and catchy melody, make it a classic example of The Style Council’s unique style and Paul Weller’s lasting impact on the music industry.
10. The Style Council – My Ever Changing Moods (1984)
“My Ever Changing Moods” is a song by The Style Council, led by Paul Weller. Released in 1984, the track features a jazzy guitar riff, smooth bassline, and Weller’s soulful vocals.
The lyrics of “My Ever Changing Moods” speak of the ups and downs of love, with Weller singing about the emotional rollercoaster of relationships and the changing moods that come with them. The song’s romantic yet melancholic tone, coupled with its jazz-infused sound and catchy melody, make it a standout track in The Style Council’s discography.
Overall, “My Ever Changing Moods” is a beautiful and introspective song that showcases Paul Weller’s talents as both a musician and a lyricist. Its message of love and the human experience, as well as its smooth sound and memorable melody, make it a classic example of The Style Council’s unique blend of jazz, pop, and soul.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
