When Paul Met Pete
It’s 1980, and England is on edge. Margaret Thatcher’s economic policies have sparked industrial unrest, leaving a generation disillusioned, with life on the dole their only reality.
For Pete Townshend, it’s a year of reckoning. The Who is on hold after the loss of Keith Moon and a turbulent 1979 tour, he is battling personal demons while his solo album Empty Glass finds critical and commercial success.
For Paul Weller, his star continues to ascend. At just 22, he is being hailed as the voice of his generation, with The Jam dominating the charts, capturing the anger and aspirations of Britain’s disenchanted youth.
And for Paolo Hewitt, it’s the year of an idea. A young journalist living his dream at Melody Maker, he sees an opportunity—to bring together two of Britain’s most influential musicians, two men who have shaped the soundtrack of their times.
A meeting is set. Two generations. Two voices.
20 pages.