Jools Holland, English singer-songwriter and pianist

Julian Miles Holland, born on 24 January 1958, is a highly distinguished English musician, celebrated for his multifaceted contributions as a pianist, bandleader, singer, composer, and television presenter. His career spans decades, marked by an eclectic blend of boogie-woogie, jazz, blues, and rhythm & blues, a style that has become synonymous with his unique musical identity.

Founding Member of Squeeze and Early Collaborations

Holland rose to prominence as an original member and co-founder of the critically acclaimed new wave band Squeeze in 1974. With Squeeze, he contributed significantly to their distinctive sound, particularly on early hits like "Cool for Cats" and "Up the Junction," before embarking on a diverse solo career that saw him explore various musical avenues. His early collaborative spirit was evident as he lent his piano talents to an astonishing array of artists across different genres, including punk icon Jayne County, the legendary Sting, rock and blues maestro Eric Clapton, Dire Straits frontman Mark Knopfler, Beatles legends George Harrison and Ringo Starr, Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour, post-punk pioneers Magazine, the experimental band The The, and U2's iconic vocalist Bono. These collaborations underscore his versatility and respected position within the music industry.

A Trailblazer in Music Television

Holland has significantly shaped the landscape of music television in the UK. From 1982 to 1987, he co-presented the groundbreaking Channel 4 music programme The Tube alongside Paula Yates. This iconic live music show became a cultural touchstone, renowned for its energetic atmosphere and for showcasing both established stars and emerging talent from various genres, fundamentally altering how live music was presented on television.

Since 1992, he has become a household name as the host of Later... with Jools Holland, a long-running and highly influential music-based show aired on BBC Two. Known for its intimate live performances, the programme provides a unique platform for a diverse range of artists, from global superstars to up-and-coming acts, crossing genres from rock and pop to jazz, world music, and classical. The show’s success led to the creation of its popular annual New Year's Eve special, Jools' Annual Hootenanny, which has become a much-anticipated tradition, bringing together an extraordinary line-up of musical guests to ring in the new year.

Beyond the Screen: Recordings, Radio, and Literature

In addition to his television work, Holland maintains a prolific recording career, often performing with his acclaimed Jools Holland's Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, a vibrant ensemble known for its dynamic live performances. His musical partnerships extend into the studio, notably his 2004 collaboration with Sir Tom Jones on the album Tom Jones & Jools Holland, a critically well-received collection of traditional rhythm and blues music that showcased their shared passion for the genre.

Holland is also a familiar voice on radio, regularly hosting his weekly programme Jools Holland on BBC Radio 2. This popular show offers listeners an engaging blend of live and recorded music, insightful conversations with studio guests, and general chat, often featuring members of his orchestra. Furthermore, he is a published author, having released his autobiography, Barefaced Lies and Boogie-Woogie Boasts, in 2007, offering personal insights into his remarkable life and career. His influence and contributions to British music were formally recognised when he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2005 New Year Honours for his services to the music industry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jools Holland

What is Jools Holland best known for?

Jools Holland is primarily renowned for hosting the long-running BBC Two music programme Later... with Jools Holland and its New Year's Eve special, Jools' Annual Hootenanny. He is also celebrated for his distinctive boogie-woogie piano style and his work as a bandleader with Jools Holland's Rhythm & Blues Orchestra.

Was Jools Holland part of a band?

Yes, Jools Holland was a founding and original member of the British new wave band Squeeze, which achieved success with hits like "Cool for Cats" and "Up the Junction" in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

What musical genres does Jools Holland perform?

Jools Holland's musical style is deeply rooted in boogie-woogie, blues, and rhythm & blues. His performances and collaborations often incorporate elements of jazz, rock, and pop, showcasing his broad musical versatility.

Has Jools Holland collaborated with many famous artists?

Absolutely. Throughout his extensive career, Jools Holland has collaborated with an impressive roster of iconic musicians, including Sting, Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, David Gilmour, Mark Knopfler, Bono, and Sir Tom Jones, among many others.

What is Jools' Annual Hootenanny?

Jools' Annual Hootenanny is a highly anticipated New Year's Eve music special aired on BBC Two, hosted by Jools Holland. It features an array of famous and emerging musical artists performing live, creating a celebratory atmosphere to welcome the new year.