Suggs - The Story of 66

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

#HenryBear & FredTed Productions #FredTed Productions #Paul Weller #The Style Council #Music #Jam #Desperately Seeking Paul #Mod

17:27

Why do so many of us get nervous when public speaking? Communication expert Lawrence Bernstein says the key to dealing with the pressure is as simple as having a casual chat. He introduces the "coffee shop test" as a way to help you overcome nerves, connect with your audience and deliver a message that truly resonates. After the talk, Modupe explains a similar approach in academia called the "Grandma test," and how public speaking can be as simple as a conversation with grandma. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey ! Become a TED Member today at ted.com/join Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

about a year ago 44:46

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Step into the world of British music legends with our latest podcast episode, featuring an in-depth conversation with Suggs, the charismatic frontman of Madness.

This episode is a treasure trove for music enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into the collaborative process behind Paul Weller's newest album, '66'.

Suggs, known for his vibrant personality and profound musical insights, takes us on a journey through his storied career and his enduring friendship with Paul Weller. From their early days gigging in London to the present-day creation of '66', Suggs shares anecdotes that are both entertaining and enlightening.

One of the highlights of the episode is the discussion about the album opener, 'Ship of Fools'. Suggs reveals the inspiration behind the lyrics, initially penned with his band in mind, but later transformed into a broader commentary on societal and political issues. This track, with its jaunty piano and cutting lyrics, sets the tone for an album rich in collaboration and creative exploration.

Another standout moment is the story behind the song 'Nothing', a heartfelt piece written by Suggs' best friend, Chalky. This song, which speaks to the theme of coming from nothing but having each other, resonates deeply with listeners. Suggs recounts how he shared Chalky's poem with Paul Weller, who then brought it to life with his musical genius.

The episode also delves into the cultural impact of music in the late seventies and early eighties, a time when singles were king and bands like The Jam and Madness were at the forefront of the music scene. Suggs reflects on the healthy competition between bands and the significance of the seven-inch single during that era.

Listeners will appreciate Suggs' candid reflections on the evolution of Madness, from their early days to their recent number one album. He shares amusing anecdotes, such as selling albums at Camden Market and the surreal experience of competing with artists like Taylor Swift and Drake for chart positions.

This episode is more than just a conversation about music; it's a celebration of the creative process and the enduring friendships that fuel it. Suggs' stories are a testament to the power of collaboration and the joy of making music with friends.

Whether you're a die-hard fan of Paul Weller, a Madness enthusiast, or simply a lover of great music stories, this episode is a must-listen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

215 episodes

Suggs - The Story of 66

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

31 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Step into the world of British music legends with our latest podcast episode, featuring an in-depth conversation with Suggs, the charismatic frontman of Madness.

This episode is a treasure trove for music enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into the collaborative process behind Paul Weller's newest album, '66'.

Whether you're a die-hard fan of Paul Weller, a Madness enthusiast, or simply a lover of great music stories, this episode is a must-listen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

215 episodes

#HenryBear & FredTed Productions #FredTed Productions #Paul Weller #The Style Council #Music #Jam #Desperately Seeking Paul #Mod

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Paul Weller Fan Podcast

1
Lucy Hooberman - Filmmaker - JerUSAlem and Red Wedge - Days Like These 39:26

21 hours ago39:26

39:26

On this episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast, I was thrilled to welcome Lucy Hooberman – a documentary filmmaker, journalist, and researcher – to talk about two bold and fascinating chapters in the story of The Style Council: the Red Wedge campaign and their much-debated short film, JerUSAlem . Lucy brings unique insight. As the producer of both Days Like These (the Red Wedge documentary) and JerUSAlem , she worked closely with Paul Weller during a period of intense creativity, activism, and experimentation. Her recollections offer a rare behind-the-scenes look at a time when pop music was both political and personal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

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Geoff Pesche - Mastering Engineer - Abbey Road - Find El Dorado 19:21

7 days ago19:21

19:21

What a joy it was to spend time with Abbey Road Mastering Engineer, Geoff Pesche for this episode of the Paul Weller Fan Podcast. Geoff’s name might not immediately ring bells for every listener – but his sonic fingerprints are all over some of the most significant records in British music history. From the cutting room at Tape One to the mastering suites of Abbey Road Studios, Geoff’s career spans over four decades of audio excellence. Before we dig into his work with Paul Weller, let’s rewind a bit. Geoff began in the late ’70s as a bike messenger, before quickly stepping into the studio world proper. By the early ’80s, he was mastering tracks at Tape One, where he famously cut the original lacquers for Blue Monday – the best-selling 12” single of all time. He also helped prepare Dire Straits’ Brothers in Arms for mass production and later mastered Kylie Minogue’s Can’t Get You Out of My Head – the most played radio track ever. Since 2006, Abbey Road has been his home turf, where he’s worked on records by Blur, Gorillaz, Kate Nash, Dizzee Rascal, and Basement Jaxx, to name a few. In short, when you need your album to sparkle, Geoff’s the man to call. Working with Weller Geoff’s link to Paul Weller came via Charles Rees, the engineer and studio manager behind the upcoming new album Find El Dorado . Having already collaborated with Charles on music by The Rifles, Geoff was a natural choice when it came time to master Paul’s latest LP. After a few test tracks were exchanged and approved, Geoff took on the full album – bringing clarity, warmth and just the right amount of loudness to the final mixes. What was particularly fascinating was Geoff’s insight into the process: how files are shared remotely, how mastering has adapted to modern streaming and vinyl needs, and how his job is, as he puts it, “adding the sugar on top.” The Weller Touch Throughout our chat, Geoff spoke with genuine admiration for Weller – not just as a musician, but as someone who’s stayed relevant by being musically direct, open to collaboration, and remarkably grounded. You can hear more about Find El Dorado , Geoff’s incredible discography, and the art of mastering on the full episode – out now on the Paul Weller Fan Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

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Julian Broad - Photographer & Filmmaker 34:05

15 days ago34:05

34:05

What a joy it was to sit down with the brilliant photographer and filmmaker Julian Broad for this episode of the podcast. Julian has played a huge part in shaping the visual identity of Paul Weller’s solo career, shooting everything from early press photos to iconic album covers including Heliocentric , Sonik Kicks , and Saturns Pattern . We talked about the creative process behind those sleeves, the magic of happy accidents, and what it’s like working with an artist as hands-on and grounded as Paul. No stylists, no entourage – just a clear vision and a real sense of trust. We also discussed the 1999 Observer shoot with Paul and Noel Gallagher, and the stunning image that now graces the cover of my upcoming book, Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire , out this September. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

1
Dancing Through the Fire - The Big Reveal 12:17

20 days ago12:17

12:17

Join me for the announcement of Paul Weller: Dancing Through the Fire: The Authorised Oral History by Dan Jennings The groundbreaking oral history on one of the most legendary musicians of all time - Paul Weller ‘Nearly 50 years in music? How is that possible? When Dan mentioned that he’d interviewed over 250 people for this, I didn’t even know that I knew that many people… but he’s done it in a way that shows that it’s more than just about me, it’s the story of everyone who was there along the way’ Paul Weller Across musical history, certain artists have transcended their craft to become cultural icons, leaving an indelible mark on the world of sound and style. Paul Weller, the legendary British musician, singer and songwriter, stands among the select few whose influence spans generations. His enduring popularity, traversing the explosive energy of The Jam to the sophisticated sounds of The Style Council and a prolific solo career spanning over thirty years, underscores the timeless appeal of his work. Weller also holds a unique position in music history: he shares the rare distinction with Lennon and McCartney as one of the few artists to achieve Number 1 albums in five consecutive decades. Dancing Through the Fire explores the fascinating narrative of Paul Weller’s musical career, weaving together never-before-told stories, intimate insights, and perspectives from the man himself and those who have been integral to his remarkable journey. With unique access to his inner circle - including family, friends, bandmates, producers, and long-time collaborators - award-winning broadcaster and journalist Dan Jennings weaves together over 200 hours of conversations, allowing exclusive access to the man behind the music, including his unparalleled drive, creative struggles and personal triumphs that have shaped his iconic career and legacy. Endlessly candid, insightful and definitive in its approach, Dancing Through the Fire captures the essence of Weller’s musical evolution through the voices of those who know him best. Dan Jennings is a journalist, former radio presenter, and multi-award-winning content creator. His acclaimed Paul Weller Fan Podcast, Desperately Seeking Paul, debuted in December 2020, and featured 180 in-depth interviews, culminating in a two-hour conversation with Weller himself. The series’ success led to Dan’s involvement in the official marketing of Paul’s seventeenth solo studio album, 66, and a nomination for Best Music Podcast at the 2024 Independent Podcast Awards. Dancing Through the Fire is his first book. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

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Dr. Robert and Matt Deighton - The Instant Garden 32:27

29 days ago32:27

32:27

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Robert and Matt Deighton as they discuss their musical collaboration and the creation of their new album together called "The Instant Garden". Every so often an album appears that surprises and delights and somehow defies categorisation. Robert and Matt have conjured up a garden full of earthly delights and mysterious depths. It’s really unlike anything else. A sonic assortment of open tuned acoustics and ferocious electrics with psychedelic melodies and bells and bass. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

1
Neil Jones & Neil Sheasby - Stone Foundation - The Revival of Survival 40:32

10 weeks ago40:32

40:32

Join us as we delve into the creative journey behind the latest album from Stone Foundation, "The Revival of Survival" which was recorded at Paul Weller HQ, Black Barn Studio. Neil Jones and Neil Sheasby discuss the album's title and its significance in a music landscape dominated by tribute acts and heritage bands. They share insights into their writing process, the evolution of their sound, and their commitment to producing original music that resonates with their audience. With reflections on their recent 25-year milestone, the duo reveals how the pandemic reinforced their passion for live performance and creating new music. They also highlight the importance of collaboration, featuring guest artists like Omar and JP Bimeni, and the magic of recording at Black Barn. They also reflect on the thrill of introducing new songs to their fans and the joy of creating music that uplifts and inspires. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the art of songwriting, the challenges of the music industry, and the enduring spirit of Stone Foundation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

1
Ady Croasdell - The Jam DJ / Ace Records 21:09

16 weeks ago21:09

21:09

On this episode, Ady Croasdell tells us about DJing for The Jam on Tour plus a new compilation album, Paul Weller Presents That Sweet, Sweet Music... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

1
Sir Steve McQueen - Blitz 20:50

17 weeks ago20:50

20:50

Sir Steve McQueen CBE - British film director, film producer and screenwriter - on his blockbuster World War II drama, Blitz - which features Paul Weller in a supporting role. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

1
Claire Moon - Weller HQ - Look back at 2024 25:46

18 weeks ago25:46

25:46

Join us for an insightful chat with Claire Moon as we explore the whirlwind year of 2024 for Paul Weller and his team. From the excitement of a podcast nomination to the intricacies of album releases and tours, Claire shares her behind-the-scenes experiences at Weller HQ. Discover how the team navigates the ever-evolving music industry, balancing physical and digital releases while staying true to their roots. Claire delves into the unique promotional strategies around the album '66', including the memorable Jo Whiley session featuring an unexpected Billie Eilish cover. She also reflects on the innovative event with Rough Trade, showcasing the album's creative collaborators on stage. We also touch on Paul's venture into acting with a supporting role in Steve McQueen's film 'Blitz', highlighting his willingness to step out of his comfort zone and embrace new challenges. Claire provides a glimpse into the planning and spontaneity that characterise Paul's approach to music and creativity, hinting at exciting possibilities for 2025. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

1
Charles Rees - The Wizard - The Story of 66 1:30:09

1 year ago1:30:09

1:30:09

Black Barn Studio Engineer and Producer, Charles Rees AKA The Wizard shares stories behind the making of Paul Weller's 17th Solo Studio album - 66. Black Barn Studio Engineer and Producer, Charles Rees AKA The Wizard shares stories behind the making of Paul Weller's 17th Solo Studio album - 66. Discover the Magic Behind Paul Weller’s New Album “66” Welcome to an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of Paul Weller’s 17th solo studio album, "66." In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Charles Rees, the wizard behind the album's engineering and production, to explore the intricate layers and creative process that brought this masterpiece to life. From the outset, "66" is a celebration of collaboration. Charles takes us on a journey through Black Barn Studio, where the album was meticulously crafted. He shares stories of the many talented musicians who contributed to the album, including Steve Cradock, Josh McClorey, Richard Hawley, and many more. Each track is a testament to Weller’s ability to bring together a diverse array of sounds and styles, creating something truly unique and magical. One of the standout moments in the podcast is the discussion of the recordings at the legendary Abbey Road Studios with Britten Sinfonia and Hannah Peel. Charles recounts the excitement and awe of working in such an iconic space, where the history of music seeps through the walls. The orchestral arrangements add a rich, dynamic layer to the album, elevating tracks like "Rise Up Singing" and "I Woke Up" to new heights. Listeners are treated to an in-depth analysis of several key tracks, including "Ship of Fools," "Flying Fish," and "Jumble Queen." Charles reveals the meticulous process of layering instruments, vocals, and soundscapes to achieve the perfect balance. He also highlights the importance of stripping back elements to ensure each component shines through, a philosophy that has resulted in a more refined and impactful sound on "66." The podcast also delves into the personal connections and stories behind the music including contributions of Max Beesley, Jacko Peake, and Christophe Vaillant, and how each collaborator brings their unique touch to the album. The result is a collection of songs that are both intimate and expansive, reflecting Weller’s ever-evolving artistry. As we reach the final episode of our journey, Charles reflects on the joy and challenges of bringing "66" to life. He shares his excitement for the album’s release and the anticipation of seeing how fans will react to the new music. For those who have followed Paul Weller’s career, "66" is a testament to his enduring creativity and ability to surprise and delight listeners with each new project. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Weller’s music, this podcast episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the making of "66". Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

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Hannah Peel - The Story of 66 59:36

1 year ago59:36

59:36

As fans enjoy Paul Weller's latest album, "66," our podcast offers a unique behind-the-scenes look into the making of his 17th solo studio album. In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with the multi-talented Hannah Peel, who played a pivotal role in the album's creation. We hear about the creation of the orchestration and the recording process at the iconic Abbey Road Studio Two, with Hannah's insights providing a rich tapestry of the creative process behind "66." Hannah Peel is a multi-award-winning composer, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. During our conversation, Hannah shared her experiences working with Paul Weller and the Britten Sinfonia, revealing the intricate details of the album's orchestration and the collaborative spirit that permeated the project. One of the standout moments of our discussion was Hannah's recounting of the 66 sessions at Abbey Road Studios. Known for its rich history and unparalleled acoustics, Abbey Road provided the perfect studio for the recording of the orchestra. Hannah described the thrill of working with the Britten SInfonia, an orchestra renowned for its adventurous playing and support of young talent. The collaboration resulted in beautifully arranged layers that add a unique richness to Paul Weller's music on 66. Hannah also touched on the various tracks she worked on, including "My Best Friend's Coat," "Rise Up Singing," "I Woke Up," and "Burnout." Each song allowing Hannah to showcase her exceptional skills in orchestration and arrangement. For instance, "I Woke Up" brought Hannah to tears with its beauty, while "Burnout" required a delicate balance of low-end strings and brass to achieve its hauntingly powerful sound. Beyond the album, Hannah's career continues to soar. She recently won an Ivor Novello Award for her work on the TV series "The Midwich Cuckoos" and has created beautiful music for Netflix film Scoop and the soundtrack for the new series "Insomnia". Her ability to seamlessly transition between different musical genres and mediums is a testament to her versatility and talent. This podcast episode with Hannah Peel is a treasure trove of insights for any music lover or aspiring musician. Her passion for collaboration, her meticulous approach to orchestration, and her genuine love for the craft shine through in every word. As we wrapped up our conversation, Hannah hinted at future projects and collaborations, leaving us eagerly anticipating what's next in her remarkable career. Don't miss this fascinating episode that delves deep into the making of Paul Weller's "66." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

1
Sir Peter Blake with Pete Paphides & Paul Weller - The Story of 66 19:20

1 year ago19:20

19:20

Sir Peter Blake talks about the cover of 66 with music journalist and author, Pete Paphides and Paul Weller. Peter, known for his iconic pop art, discusses his involvement in designing the album cover. He shares how Paul Weller approached him with a clear vision, making the creative process both specific and collaborative. His artwork for '66' is a blend of minimalism and his signature motifs, including a red and blue border and a heavy varnish finish. These elements not only make the cover visually striking but also resonate with Paul Weller's artistic vision. The conversation reveals the thought process behind making the artwork shiny and the significance of the motifs used. Paul Weller's admiration for pop art and its influence on his music is evident. He recalls his early fascination with artists like David Hockney and how contemporary art resonated with him more than traditional forms. This connection between visual art and music is a recurring theme, highlighting how album covers can enhance the listening experience. The episode also touches on Peter's work with other musicians, including Brian Wilson and The Beach Boys. His passion for rock and roll and his collaborations with iconic artists add another layer of depth to the discussion. Blake's anecdotes about working on album covers, like the one for Brian Wilson's 'Getting In Over My Head', provide fascinating insights into the intersection of music and art. One of the most touching segments is the discussion about the tribute concert for Blake's 90th birthday at the Royal Festival Hall. Organised by Paul Weller, the concert featured performances by artists who had worked with Blake, including Noel Gallagher and Madness. This tribute underscores the deep respect and admiration the music community has for Blake's contributions. The episode wraps up with reflections on the importance of album art in the digital age. Despite the shift towards streaming, both Paul Weller and Sir Peter Blake emphasise the enduring appeal of vinyl and the tangible connection it offers to the music. The artwork for '66' is designed to be emblematic, ensuring it retains its impact even in a miniaturised form on digital platforms. In summary, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the creative processes behind music and art. It offers a unique glimpse into the collaborative efforts that brought '66' to life and celebrates the enduring legacy of both Paul Weller and Sir Peter Blake. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation—tune in now and experience the story of '66'! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

1
Dr. Robert - The Blow Monkeys - The Story of 66 30:05

1 year ago30:05

30:05

Dr. Robert shares the story behind Rise Up Singing from Monks Road Social and Paul Weller... the original and the re-working for 66, plus we hear all about the new Blow Monkeys album - Together / Alone. In our latest podcast episode, we dive deep into the creation of Paul Weller's brand new album, '66,' with none other than Dr. Robert from The Blow Monkeys. Paul Weller, a legend in the music industry, has always been known for his innovative and collaborative spirit. His 17th solo studio album, '66,' is no exception. This album is packed with collaborations, bringing together a plethora of talented musicians to create something truly special. One of the standout tracks from the album is 'Rise Up Singing,' which picked up a Radio 2 Record of the Week award. But how did this song come to be? That's where Dr. Robert comes in. In our conversation, Robert shares the fascinating journey of 'Rise Up Singing.' The song's origins lie in the Monks Road Social project, a collaborative musical endeavour that brought together various artists to create something unique. Robert explains how the song was initially part of this project, with Paul Weller later adding more of his own touches to elevate it further. The result is a track that resonates deeply with listeners, capturing the communal spirit that many of us missed during the lockdown. But that's not all. Robert also shares insights into the creative process behind the new Blow Monkeys album, 'Together / Alone.' Recorded post-pandemic, this album marks an evolution in the band's sound, featuring twelve tracks of musical splendour. With its funky grooves and positive vibes, 'Together / Alone' is a testament to the band's enduring creativity and passion for music. Throughout the episode, we also touch on the changing landscape of the music industry, the joy of live performances, and the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision. Robert's candid reflections on his career and creative journey offer valuable insights for both musicians and fans alike. So, if you're curious about the making of '66,' the magic of musical collaboration, or simply want to hear some great stories from the world of music, be sure to listen to this episode. You won't be disappointed. Tune in now and immerse yourself in the story of Paul Weller's '66' and the creative genius of Dr. Robert. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

1
Louise Marshall - The Story of 66 36:37

1 year ago36:37

36:37

Celebrating his 66th birthday, Paul Weller has gifted us with his 17th solo studio album, aptly titled '66.' This album is a testament to his enduring creativity and collaborative spirit. In this podcast episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Louise Marshall, a phenomenal vocalist with a rich history of performances and collaborations. She has lent her vocal prowess to many notable artists and projects. From performing with Jools Holland's big band to topping the charts with LF System, Louise's versatility and talent are undeniable. In our conversation, she shared her experiences working on '66,' providing a unique glimpse into the album's creation. One of the standout aspects of '66' is its collaborative nature. Louise highlighted how Paul Weller's relaxed approach in the studio allowed for a creative and enjoyable environment. "The songs are just fabulous to create backing vocals over, so it just makes it an easy job, an easy, delightful afternoon," she shares. This ease and joy are palpable in the music, making '66' a standout album in Paul Weller's discography. Louise's journey in music began early, influenced by her family's musical talents. Growing up in Oldham, she was surrounded by music, from hymns and spirituals to nursery rhymes. This early exposure laid the foundation for her remarkable career. "It's all about ears. It's all about listening. It's all about you. Higher, I'm lower, whatever," she explained, emphasizing the importance of harmony and collaboration in her work. In addition to discussing her work on '66,' Louise shared insights into her other projects. Her involvement in LF System's hit single "Afraid to Feel," which topped the charts and earned a Brit Award nomination, is a testament to her versatility. She also touched on her experiences performing with legends like Amy Winehouse and Ed Sheeran, highlighting the common thread of passion and dedication that runs through all great musicians. As we delved deeper into the making of '66,' Louise revealed the magic behind tracks like "Jumble Queen" and "Soul Wandering." The former, with lyrics by Noel Gallagher, and the latter, featuring writing contributions from Bobby Gillespie, showcase the collaborative spirit that defines the album. Louise's and Sumudu Jayatilakaa's backing vocals add a rich, soulful layer to these tracks, enhancing their emotional depth. Listening to Louise Marshall speak about her work is a reminder of the dedication and passion that goes into creating music. Her stories and insights offer a behind-the-scenes look at the making of '66,' making this podcast episode a must-listen for any Paul Weller fan. So, if you're a lover of music, a fan of Paul Weller, or simply curious about the creative process behind a great album, tune in to our latest episode. Discover the magic of '66' through the eyes of Louise Marshall and gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry that goes into making music that resonates with the soul. Listen to the full episode now and immerse yourself in the story of '66.' You won't be disappointed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

Paul Weller Fan Podcast

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Jake Fletcher - The Story of 66 50:43

1 year ago50:43