Jools Holland

On 7 March 2027 Jools Holland will be at SPOT/De Oosterpoort in Groningen. The British pianist began his career in the late 1970s with Squeeze, alongside Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook, and went on to carve out his own path centered on piano, rhythm & blues and boogie-woogie. His playing draws its power from the blues, swing and rock ’n’ roll: rapid phrasing, a driving left hand and arrangements in which the horn section plays a prominent role. In addition to his television work on Later… with Jools Holland, he has released albums such as Sex & Jazz & Rock & Roll, The A–Z Geographer’s Guide to the Piano and Small World Big Band, and has continued to tour with his large live ensemble.

On stage, Jools Holland brings that world together with his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra. Expect a set that shifts between boogie-woogie, jump blues, swinging instrumentals and concise songs, with room for call-and-response, short solo spots and tight sectional playing. Original compositions alternate with classics and surprises from his wide-ranging repertoire. It’s all about groove, interplay and the direct energy of a big band modeled on the traditions of R&B and swing, with the piano as the evening’s anchor.