Paul Weller

Going to college was never an option. I was passionate about music, but how much talent I actually had was another matter.

I suppose I was much more serious-minded in the '70s and '80s.

It is nice to make a record and people like it, and it's encouraging.

I think I come from a time when all the artists I grew up with and I loved always used to try and push the boundaries, and there doesn't seem so much of that, really.

There are so many artists who get to my age that get comfortable and just stick in a groove, and I really don't want to do that.

In my old age, my mind gets more open, and I listen to so many different types of music and I guess that all reflects in my work.

Most people my age, their musical life ended in the '80s. They stick with what they know. But my tastes are much broader. And I don't want to stop learning.

I really enjoy playing America. I like the audiences there. It's the home of a lot of music I grew up with.

I had a total belief in The Style Council. I meant every word and felt every action.

The Jam were a good band, however I feel that the Style Council were better. A lot of people I know will disagree with me. Some things we did with The Style Council were misinterpreted or over their heads.

In all honesty, I don't know what one song can change.

Being a musician is a noble profession.

People say that if you're still angry at 52, you're not an angry young man, just a grumpy old git.

I could write songs about politics, but I'm conscious of not writing songs that sound the same as the ones I wrote 30 years ago.

I think people are just really disappointed, disappointed with Blair as well, who's just like Bush's lapdog. I think everyone's just disillusioned with politics in our country, and it must be the same in your country.

I think politicians are so far out of step with what people really want.

Nothing wrong with pop!

I'm fine with being thought of as a guitar player, and if I can get any recognition or respect for doing that, that's a pretty good thing for me.

For me, the best thing I can do is play live. The best way for me to put over what I'm trying to do is to play live. Whether it's an acoustic show, electric or whatever... if I shine at all, that's where it all really happens - it just took me a while to rediscover that.

I still love playing music. It was all I ever wanted to do, and I got the chance to do it.