For those of us of a certain age, The Jam was THE sound of that exciting musical period as the 70s gave way to the 80s. The Jam were at the epicentre of the Mod Revival. In 1982, when Weller announced that The Jam was finished, fans were floored. The band was at the peak of their powers: chart-topping hits, critical acclaim, sold-out shows, and a loyal following that saw them as the voice of a generation. 6 successful studio albums including the final album The Gift which delivered the band’s much longed for number one status in the UK album charts. So why would anyone walk away from that?
Weller’s explanation focused on creative growth and the need to move on, but behind that was a deeper story. A story of control, money, and power. A story many leaders - whether in music, business, or life - can learn from.
The Influence of Power Behind the Scenes
Paul’s father, John Weller, was not only his dad but also his manager - and a sharp operator. As The Jam rose, so did John’s grip on the band’s direction. It became increasingly clear that The Jam, once a democratic trio, was evolving into a one-man show. Decisions began and ended with Paul and his father.
From the outside, this might have looked like smart management - keeping things tight and focused. But from the inside? It was a power play that undermined the contributions of Bruce Foxton and Rick Buckler, the bassist and drummer who had been there from the beginning.
John Weller was positioning Paul not just as the frontman, but as the brand. Royalties, publishing rights, and creative control increasingly flowed in one direction. The band may have worn sharp suits and sung (ironically) about class solidarity, but behind the scenes, the old story of money and control was playing out.
Leadership or Domination?
The final blow came not in a band meeting, but in a decision delivered. Weller didn’t ask Foxton and Buckler how they felt. He didn’t open a conversation. He simply told them it was over.
Imagine that in your own workplace: You help build something, give your best, and just as it’s all clicking into place, the person at the top tells you it’s done - without warning, without collaboration.
That’s not leadership. That’s command and control.
And it’s a reminder that leadership is not about being the most talented, or the loudest voice in the room. It’s about bringing people with you. Sharing success. Giving space to others to grow, contribute, and feel valued.
The Human Cost
Paul Weller went on to reinvent himself, first with The Style Council, then as a solo artist. His musical journey continued, richer, deeper, more diverse. But for Foxton and Buckler, the road was bumpier. They tried to stay in music, but nothing reached the heights of The Jam. The breakup left emotional scars, and a lingering sense of unfinished business. Decades later, the wounds hadn’t fully healed
The end came as a severe shock to Buckler – “everything I’d got out of bed for the previous 10 years had gone,” he said, adding that “Paul was probably the only person on the planet who thought it was a good idea”. The split was rendered even more painful by Weller’s decision to cut Buckler and Foxton dead, refusing to speak to either of them for many years afterwards.
Credit to The Guardian for above extract from Rick Buckler’s obituary published on 19 Feb 2025. Sadly, Rick passed away aged just 69 on 17 February 2025 after a short illness. In the years prior to his death he worked as a carpenter & cabinetmaker.
Lessons in Leadership from The Jam’s End
As leaders, we often look forward - strategy, ambition, growth. But we mustn’t forget the people who helped us get there. When we make unilateral decisions, or prioritise our own ambitions without care for others, we risk leaving behind more than just colleagues. We leave behind trust, loyalty, and respect. The 5 lessons to be learned are:
1. Power should be shared, not hoarded. Leadership is a team sport. If only one person is making the decisions, the others will eventually feel left out - or forced out.
2. Transparency builds trust. Whether you’re ending a project, changing direction, or planning your next move, bring people into the conversation. Even if it’s a tough call.
3. Don’t mistake control for vision. John Weller had a vision for his son, but it came at a cost. Leaders need vision, yes, but not at the expense of those who helped you build it.
4. Appreciate the collective. Foxton and Buckler weren’t just backing musicians. They were part of the chemistry that made The Jam extraordinary. Recognise and celebrate the team - not just the figurehead.
5. Exit well. If you need to move on, do it with grace. Leave relationships intact. You never know when paths will cross again or what bridges you might wish you hadn’t burned.
Final Chord
The Jam’s music endures. It pulses with energy, defiance, and authenticity. But its breakup offers a quieter, more sobering lesson. A reminder that even the most talented teams can fracture when communication breaks down and power becomes lopsided.
Whether you’re leading a band, a business, or a family, how you treat people matters. Your legacy isn’t just in the work you produce, but in the relationships you preserve.
So lead with clarity, compassion, and respect.
Even when the beat changes.
RIP Rick
©️ Keith Power - Motivus Coaching
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