Tom Van Heel - The Story of 66

Singer-songwriter, musician & keys player for PW – Tom Van Heel shares his story of 66.

Jumble Queen - Electric Guitar / Backing Vocals

Nothing - Acoustic Guitar / Backing Vocal

Sleepy Hollow - Backing Vocal

In Full Flight - Wurlitzer, Korg MS20

Burn Out - Hammond Organ, Backing Vocals

Paul Weller's '66': Behind the Scenes with Tom Van Heel

Welcome to an exclusive look into the making of Paul Weller’s 17th solo studio album, '66'. In our latest podcast episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Tom Van Heel, keys player in the Paul Weller Band. This episode offers a deep dive into the creative process behind this remarkable album, the magic of live performances, and the camaraderie within the band.

Known for his versatility as a musician, Tom shares his experiences from the recording sessions to the world tours. One of the standout points of our conversation was the collaborative nature of '66'. Tom highlights how each song on the album is a result of a collective effort, with contributions from various talented musicians, including Noel Gallagher and Bobby Gillespie.

We start by reminiscing about the band's recent tours in Japan and Australia. Tom describes the joy of performing at iconic venues like the Sydney Opera House and the unique experiences that come with touring in such diverse locations. He fondly recalls the excitement of playing in Japan, despite the snow!. The camaraderie within the band is palpable as they navigate through these experiences, making each performance memorable.

The episode also delves into the day that the band shared at the legendary Abbey Road Studios. Tom shares anecdotes, describing it as a surreal experience. The presence of the orchestra and the historic ambiance of Abbey Road added a special touch to the recording sessions.

One of the highlights of the episode is the discussion about specific tracks from '66'. Tom talks about 'Jumble Queen', where he played electric guitar and provided backing vocals. He also shares insights into the creation of 'Nothing', a beautiful song featuring Paul on multiple instruments and Tom on acoustic guitar and backing vocals. These stories offer a glimpse into the meticulous yet organic process behind each track.

Tom also touches upon the dynamic within the band, emphasizing the trust and mutual respect they have for each other. This bond allows them to experiment and bring out the best in each performance, whether in the studio or on stage. The episode is filled with anecdotes that highlight the band's dedication to their craft and their passion for music.

As we wrap up the episode, Tom reflects on the inspiration he draws from working with Paul Weller. He mentions how being part of the band motivates him to continually improve his own song-writing and musicianship. This sentiment resonates with fans who admire the relentless creativity and innovation that Paul Weller brings to his music.

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