Simon Napier-Bell - Talks NOMIS Studios, Paul and John Weller...

2026-07-07

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In this conversation, recorded for my book, legendary music manager, producer, and author Simon Napier-Bell takes us inside the creation of NOMIS Studios, the state-of-the-art Hammersmith rehearsal complex he built out of a Victorian dairy with two-foot-thick concrete walls.Originally created to give top-tier acts a luxurious, soundproof, and private space to hone their live craft, NOMIS quickly became the beating heart of the London music scene. It was here that Simon first crossed...

In this conversation, recorded for my book, legendary music manager, producer, and author Simon Napier-Bell takes us inside the creation of NOMIS Studios, the state-of-the-art Hammersmith rehearsal complex he built out of a Victorian dairy with two-foot-thick concrete walls.

Originally created to give top-tier acts a luxurious, soundproof, and private space to hone their live craft, NOMIS quickly became the beating heart of the London music scene. It was here that Simon first crossed paths with John and Paul Weller, renting Weller Snr an office and witnessing the daily coming-and-goings of the crew.

He reflects on the distinct and fascinating character of John - a man often perceived as a "rough diamond" but whom Simon found delightful, humorous, and affectionate - as well as Paul’s varying moods and legendary dislike of mime-synching on Top of the Pops.

Simon also details the striking musical and stylistic crossover between the era-defining bands he managed, like Wham!, and The Style Council, sharing his views on how Paul Weller and George Michael were parallel visionaries pulling from the same rich lineage of British blue-eyed soul, jazz-pop, and sharp visual presentation.

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