Don’t matter what I do

“Long Hot Summer” was a single released in 1983 by the British band The Style Council, and it marked the band’s breakthrough into the UK Top 10. The song was composed by frontman Paul Weller and was inspired by his love of the Italian film “La Dolce Vita.”

For The Style Council, “Long Hot Summer” represented a departure from the punk-influenced sound of Weller’s previous band, The Jam, and a move towards a more sophisticated and polished pop sound. The band’s music was characterized by a blend of soul, jazz, and pop, and Weller’s songwriting often explored social and political themes.

The lyrics of “Long Hot Summer” touch on themes of love, desire, and the passage of time. The song’s romantic and nostalgic tone is reflected in its musical style, which features lush orchestration and Weller’s smooth crooning vocals. The track also showcases the band’s signature use of horns, which would become a hallmark of their sound.

The song’s release in 1983 came during a period of social and political upheaval in the UK, as the country faced high unemployment, racial tensions, and protests against the government. “Long Hot Summer” provided a brief respite from these issues, offering a vision of escape and romance in a time of uncertainty. The song’s popularity helped establish The Style Council as one of the leading bands of the 1980s and cemented Weller’s reputation as a talented songwriter and musician.