Paul Charles rock’n’roll stories meet a life of fictional crime

THERE’S a perception that only Simon Cowell-types thrive in the music business. But esteemed promoter and band manager, Paul Charles, couldn’t be further removed from the tooth-and-claw stereotype. He has collaborated with big names — Van Morrison, Robert Plant and Elvis Costello, among others — yet has the bookish demeanour of a provincial librarian.
“I’ve been incredibly lucky. I only work with people I’m a fan of,” says the 66-year-old. “Their priority is to perfect their writing style and be the best artists they can. They don’t want the in-your-face rock ’n’ roll manager. That exists more on the celebrity side of the business.”