Jools is respected not only as a performer but also as a leading authority on music.

Jools Holland OBE DL, born Julian Miles Holland on 24th January 1958 in Blackheath, Southeast London, displayed an exceptional talent for the piano from an early age. By the age of eight, he was already playing fluently by ear, and as a teenager, he regularly performed in pubs across South East London and the East End Docks.

At just 15 years old, Jools was introduced to Glenn Tilbrook and Chris Difford, leading to the formation of Squeeze. Not long after, Gilson Lavis—who had previously played alongside legendary artists such as B.B. King, Chuck Berry, and Max Wall—joined as the drummer. To this day, Lavis remains a key member of Jools’ band.

In 1987, Jools launched The Jools Holland Big Band, initially featuring himself and Gilson Lavis. Over time, this evolved into what is now the 19-piece Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra. The ensemble includes piano, organ, drums, guitar, bass guitar, three female vocalists, three trumpets, three trombones, baritone saxophone, two alto saxophones, and two tenor saxophones.

In addition to his dynamic live performances, Jools Holland has enjoyed a prolific recording career since signing with Warner Music in 1996, producing the multimillion-selling Jools Holland and Friends series, which has featured legendary collaborators such as Sting, George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Norah Jones, Bono, Ringo Starr, and many more.

Alongside his musical success, Jools has made a lasting impact as a television presenter, most notably as the host of Later… with Jools Holland, which began in 1992 and remains a cornerstone of live music broadcasting.

In recognition of his contributions to music and television, he was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in 2003.

Decades into his career, Jools remains at the heart of British music, performing, recording, and bringing new and legendary artists to audiences worldwide.