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The Jam

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Band Timeline

1972

Formation of The Jam in Woking, Surrey, England

The Jam was formed in 1972 at Sheerwater Secondary School in Woking, Surrey. The original lineup included Paul Weller on bass and vocals, guitarist Steve Brookes, and drummer Rick Buckler. The band started out playing covers of 1950s and early 1960s rock and roll songs. Influenced by the mod movement after discovering The Who’s debut album, The Jam adopted the mod style, including suits and scooters, while incorporating Motown and Stax covers into their sets. Eventually, Brookes left the band and Bruce Foxton took over on bass, solidifying the trio lineup that would last until their disbandment.
1977

Debut Single and Album, and Breakthrough on the UK Punk Scene

In 1977, The Jam signed with Polydor Records and released their debut single "In the City," which reached the UK Top 40. Their self-titled debut album followed shortly after, featuring fast-paced, punk-influenced music with clear 1960s rock inspirations, setting them apart from many contemporaries in the punk and new wave scene. During this year, The Jam joined the Clash's White Riot Tour, gaining exposure alongside other pioneering punk bands. Their politically charged lyrics began to attract attention as the band carved out a distinctly English commentary on social issues.
1978

Release of 'This Is the Modern World' and Rising Popularity

The Jam released their second album, 'This Is the Modern World,' consolidating their position in the UK music scene. Although not as commercially successful as their debut, the album demonstrated the band's growing sophistication in songwriting and further incorporated mod and soul influences. Singles like 'The Modern World' captured the band's youthful energy and social critiques. By now, The Jam’s image and sound were becoming emblematic of the late 1970s mod revival.
1979

Breakthrough with 'All Mod Cons' Album and Critical Acclaim

The release of their third album 'All Mod Cons' marked a turning point in The Jam's career. Backed by sharper songwriting and production, it produced several notable tracks such as 'Down in the Tube Station at Midnight' and 'English Rose.' The album reached the UK Top 10, elevating their status significantly. This period solidified Paul Weller's reputation as a gifted songwriter and vocalist, while the band's blend of punk energy and mod style resonated widely with audiences and critics.
1980

Mainstream Success with 'Setting Sons' and Expanding Influence

In 1980, The Jam released their fourth studio album, 'Setting Sons,' which continued to showcase socially charged lyrics paired with vibrant and melodic compositions. The album contained hits like 'The Eton Rifles,' which reached the UK Top 5 and became emblematic of the band’s sharp social observations. The Jam's influence grew as they toured extensively, drawing large crowds and reinforcing their reputation as one of the foremost UK bands combining mod aesthetics with punk and new wave elements.
1982

Final Studio Album 'The Gift' and Disbandment

In 1982, The Jam released their sixth and final studio album 'The Gift,' which reached number one on the UK Albums Chart. This album featured prominent singles such as 'Town Called Malice' and 'Beat Surrender,' which also hit number one on the singles chart. Despite commercial and critical success, the band announced their breakup in December 1982, surprising fans. The decision stemmed from Paul Weller’s desire to explore new musical directions, leading to his subsequent formation of The Style Council. The Jam’s legacy was cemented as one of the defining British bands of their era, known for their championing of English identity and social commentary.

Albums

the-jam_1st_album
In the City
12 tracks
1977
the-jam_2nd_album
This Is the Modern World
12 tracks
1977
the-jam_3rd_album
All Mod Cons
12 tracks
1978
the-jam_4th_album
Setting Sons
10 tracks
1979
the-jam_5th_album
Sound Affects
11 tracks
1980
the-jam_6th_album
The Gift
11 tracks
1982
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Bruce Foxton

N/A

Paul Weller

N/A

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Rick Buckler

N/A
N/A

Steve Brookes

1972
1976

Story of The Jam

The Jam, a hugely influential English rock band, exploded onto the scene in 1972, birthed in the Surrey town of Woking. The power trio—Paul Weller, Bruce Foxton, and Rick Buckler—dominated the UK charts, achieving an unprecedented run of 18 consecutive Top 40 singles from their 1977 debut until their split in December 1982. This phenomenal streak included four number one hits. Their impact remains undeniable: as of 2007, "Thats Entertainment" and "Just Who Is the 5 OClock Hero" held the record for best-selling imported singles in UK history. Their discography boasted six studio albums (including the number one hit The Gift) and one electrifying live album. Even after their breakup, the band`s enduring popularity saw their first fifteen singles re-enter the charts, all landing within the Top 100.

The Jams sound was a potent blend of influences, seamlessly weaving together 1960s beat music, soul, R&B, and the raw energy of 70s punk and new wave. Their melodic pop sensibility, sharp social commentary uniquely filtered through a distinctly English lens, and their iconic mod image created a captivating and enduring appeal. The band became a launchpad for Paul Weller, whose songwriting and lead guitar (typically on a Rickenbacker 330) drove much of their creative force. He would later achieve further success with The Style Council and a celebrated solo career. Bruce Foxton’s powerful basslines provided the rhythmic bedrock for many of their hits, including classics like "Down in the Tube Station at Midnight," "The Eton Rifles," "Going Underground," and "Town Called Malice."

History

Formation (1972–1976)

The Jams genesis can be traced back to Sheerwater Secondary School in Woking, Surrey, where the band formed in 1972.

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