Paul Weller Covers Billie Eilish’s ‘What Was I Made For?’ on New BBC Live Album

Paul Weller, the iconic frontman of The Jam and a revered figure in British music, has released his latest album, Weller at The BBC Volume 2, featuring live recordings spanning from 2008 to 2024. The collection includes a standout cover of Billie Eilish’s What Was I Made For? from the 2023 Barbie film soundtrack, a track Weller chose after hearing it frequently at home through his youngest daughter’s admiration for the artist.

In discussing the inspiration behind the cover, Weller said: “I heard it so much around my house because my youngest daughter loves Billie. I really love that song.” He added that he found the melody “beautiful” and the lyrics “very clever,” noting that he thought it would be a meaningful addition to the album and something his daughter would appreciate.

The album, Weller at The BBC Volume 2, compiles live performances and radio sessions recorded for the BBC over nearly two decades. It showcases both Weller’s classic material and his interpretations of contemporary songs, reflecting his ongoing artistic evolution. Describing his approach, Weller stated he is “always looking to develop what I do,” emphasizing a continued commitment to growth and musical exploration.

Reflecting on his personal life, Weller shared that he feels fortunate to be “just another granddad” as he prepares for the album’s release. He also spoke about lifestyle changes, noting he has stopped drinking and feels more present and appreciative in his work, saying he is “more conscious of what I’m doing” and gains deeper fulfillment from his music.

Looking back on his early career, Weller recalled The Jam’s first performances at the Woking Working Men’s Club in the late 1970s, where they played to small, initially disengaged audiences who eventually warmed up after bingo night. “It was a massive deal for us because it was the first time we’d ever played some of our own songs,” he remembered, highlighting the humble beginnings of one of Britain’s most influential bands.

With Weller at The BBC Volume 2, Weller offers fans a curated archive of live performances that capture his enduring artistry and adaptability across generations of music.