West Midlands Forest Live 2023 concert: Paul Weller announces special guest

The NME and Brit Awards winner Paul Weller, 64, has announced a special guest and the dates for his Forest Live 2023 performance in the summer.

From his era-defining breakthrough with The Jam, reinvention via The Style Council, and formidable career as a solo artist, Paul has scored a string of Number 1 albums and singles.

Constantly creating forward-thinking music, the ever-changing Weller has connected with fans across the generations and is regarded as a cultural icon of British music.

A Forest Live stalwart, Paul has made a record-breaking 25 appearances as part of the concert series since his debut in 2004, the most by any artist and all to sold-out crowds.

Now he has announced that Far From Saints and guest support Seb Lowe will be joining him at Cannock Chase Forest on June 9. Far From Saints is a new band with Kelly Jones of Stereophonics along with Patty Lynn and Dwight Baker of US band The Wind And The Wave.

Far From Saints recently released lead single ‘Let’s Turn This Back Around’ which encapsulates the irresistible magnetism that comes when two evocative voices are drawn together. The band will release their eponymous debut album this summer.

Paul Weller said: “Really looking forward to seeing my mate Kelly’s new project live at the forest shows. Can’t wait!” Kelly Jones last appeared as part of Forest Live with his band Stereophonics performing two dates in 2019. Seb Lowe, upcoming Oldham singer-songwriter is also confirmed as opening act for the bill.

Paul Weller dates:

• Thursday 8 June: Westonbirt Arboretum, near Tetbury, Glos.
• Friday 9 June: Cannock Chase Forest, near Rugeley, Staffs.
• Saturday 17 June: Thetford Forest, near Brandon, Suffolk.

Cannock Chase Forest Live line up

• Thursday 8 June - Madness + special guest Hollie Cook and support The Hawkmen
• Friday 9 June - Paul Weller + special guests Far From Saints and guest support Seb Lowe
• Saturday 10 June - Tom Grennan + guests
• Sunday 11 June - Jack Savoretti plus special guest Natalie Imbruglia

The Forest Live Festival by Forestry England is one of the most anticipated fixtures of summer festivals in the country. For more information on tickets visit the Forestry England website.