Paul Weller: The Modfather at the BBC, Part 2

2026 finds British musician Paul Weller releasing forty-eight songs with a three-CD disc collection entitled Weller – Live at the BBC Vol. 2. He issued the first volume back in 2008 and has returned with a predictably eclectic collection of songs. They cover Weller’s Jam, Style Council, and solo releases. The first volume had only two Jam songs, “That’s Entertainment” and “Pity Poor Alfie.” Fans of Weller’s early work will be delighted with the inclusion of three Jams in this second volume, which are “Start!” “Boy About Town,” and “The Eton Rifles.”

Weller always made it clear that The Jam was only one phase of a career that included so many highs and lows that you lose count. This restless, forward-looking approach serves him well and makes him an artist who still has something that you want to pay attention to. Here are five highlights of his latest release.

“What Was I Made For”

Yes, that Barbie song. Weller covered the Billie Eilish track created for the Barbie film. Weller is not putting us on; he genuinely likes Eilish, and this version is a winner.

In Weller’s hands, the song is more about aging rather than a young person’s angst or confusion. The roughness of Weller’s voice adds to the melancholy; he’s now looking back at it all instead of what will become. Weller thanks his daughter for playing it for him and giving him the idea to record it. Weller said that the BBC always encouraged him to add a cover when he performed. This collection also has covers of The Kinks’ “Days” and The Zombies’ “Time of the Season,” all played with panache.

“Wild Wood”

Weller’s second album featured “Wild Wood,” and here there is a stunning version of it. He sounds a bit like Neil Young with a slide guitar and piano. It’s a haunting version of a folk song that helped put Weller back on the map.

“The Eton Rifles”

This BBC version of “The Eton Rifles” is full of fire. The irony in the lyrics comes through, and so does Weller’s disgust for the elitism of Eton College. Weller never went to art school or college, and his peasants’ respect for higher education comes through. Who needs their tie and crest?

“One Bright Star”

“One Bright Star” is a traditional-sounding tango. Weller never shied away from any genre, and he puts his English passion into the Latin tune. The orchestra and mariachi horns make it another welcome shift in style.

“Invisible”

One song that Weller seldom performs is “Invisible.” The sad, almost hopeless, lyrics are about not wanting to give up but finding oneself “at a loss.” Strangely, though, the song creeps to a positive conclusion while plodding to its end. Weller is moving on and “packing up.” His voice is forlorn, and we can only wish him well.

Weller has played on the BBC since the 1970s. He’s said the engineers there are clever and have always given him a great sound. It is a treat to have another collection to savor.