DANCING THROUGH THE FIRE: The Authorised Oral History of PAUL WELLER

DANCING THROUGH THE FIRE: The groundbreaking oral history on one of the most legendary musicians of all time: Paul Weller. An in conversation with author Dan Jennings.

Across musical history, certain artists have transcended their craft to become cultural icons, leaving an indelible mark on the world of sound and style. Paul Weller, the legendary British musician, singer and songwriter, stands among the select few whose influence spans generations. His enduring popularity, traversing the explosive energy of The Jam to the sophisticated sounds of The Style Council and a prolific solo career spanning over thirty years, underscores the timeless appeal of his work. Weller also holds a unique position in music history:he shares the rare distinction with Lennon and McCartney as one of the few artists to achieve Number 1 albums in five consecutive decades.

Authorised by the man himself, Dancing Through the Fire explores the fascinating narrative of Paul Weller’s musical career, weaving together never-before-told stories, intimate insights and perspectives from those who have been integral to his remarkable journey. Based on over 200 hours of interviews, meticulously curated by award-winning broadcaster and journalist Dan Jennings, we hear from Weller’s family, bandmates, collaborators, industry insiders and more - allowing exclusive access to the man behind the music, including his unparalleled drive, creative struggles and personal triumphs that have shaped his iconic career and legacy.

Endlessly candid, insightful and definitive in its approach, Dancing Through the Fire is the ultimate biography that captures the essence of Weller’s musical evolution through the voices of those who know him best.

We have two ticket options available: * Event Only and *Event with Discounted Book Combo deal - books will be available for collection at the Festival.

Our event will be followed by a dedicated signing event with Dan snd Nicky. RRP books will also be available for purchase on the day.

About the Author:

Dan Jennings is a journalist, former radio presenter, and multi-award-winning content creator. His acclaimed Paul Weller Fan Podcast, Desperately Seeking Paul, debuted in December 2020, and featured 180 in-depth interviews, culminating in a two-hour conversation with Weller himself. The series’ success led to Dan’s involvement in the official marketing of Paul’s seventeenth solo studio album, 66, and a nomination for Best Music Podcast at the 2024 Independent Podcast Awards. His first book Dancing Through the Fire is a unique oral history of the iconic musician, exploring his extraordinary life and work in a new light.

About Nicky Weller:

Nicky Weller is Paul’s sister. A music industry veteran of over 40 years, Nicky managed The Jam and Style Council fan clubs, serving as a vital link between Paul Weller and his fans. She was office manager at Solid Bond Studios, toured with The Style Council, Dee C. Lee, and Paul’s solo band, and worked as a tour manager for various artists. More recently, she created three major exhibitions on The Jam and The Style Council, and was executive producer on The Jam: About the Young Idea and Wild Wood documentaries. She is also the author of books: Growing Up with The Jam/Punk.

About the host:

Ralph Dartford’s first pamphlet, Cigarettes, Beer and Love was published by Ossett Observer Presents in 2013. His next collection, , was published by Valley Press in 2019, and followed in October 2021. In 2024, his 3rd collection for Valley Press, House Anthems’ was published to great acclaim and completed a trilogy of themed work. Ralph is the poetry editor at www.northerngravy.com and is currently studying for a Creative Writing PhD at the University of Huddersfield that focuses on the tensions between ‘performance poetry’ and ‘page poetry’. For an honest living, Ralph is a project manager working within criminal justice for the National Literacy Trust.

Ralph's headshot: @Dockeford

Host or Publisher Louder Than Words Festival