On this day in 1982 The Jam announced to the NME that they were splitting, musical differences, as always, being blamed.

Although they emerged at the same time as Punk was making waves The jam were part of the mod revival. Paul Weller, apparently becoming interested in mods after discovering ‘My Generation’ and The Who in general. As a publicity thing it obviously worked as the suit and Lambretta thing set them apart from their contemporaries. The mod ethic also allowed Weller to develop his voice and position his lyrics.

Unlike other bands of the time they also adopted an overtly Conservative political stance. Announcing their intention to vote for the Conservative and Unionist Party (The Tories) in the 1979 general election. (Does that mean that I can hold Weller personally responsible for Thatcher?)

Their pop sensibilities were displayed in a string of 20 hits (almost 20 consecutive top 40s, not too shabby at all). They also released 9 albums including the critically acclaimed and popular ‘Setting Sons’ and ‘This is The Modern World’.

Post Jam, Weller was a member of the Style Council and then a successful solo career.

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