Musical maestro Jools Holland and his famous Rhythm & Blues Orchestra are thrilled to announce their 2025 Autumn/Winter tour, joined this year by special guest Imelda May.

One of Ireland’s most celebrated artists, Imelda May has had many high-profile collaborations with Jeff Beck, and performed with music legends including Lou Reed, Bono, Tom Jones, Noel Gallagher, and Robert Plant. With a dynamic blend of blues, rock, soul, gospel, and jazz, Imelda’s self-written and produced album Love Tattoo remains the best-selling album by a homegrown female artist in Ireland. Her electric performances promise an unforgettable experience for audiences.

Jools expressed his enthusiasm saying: “From the moment I first heard and saw her, I realized that she is one of the true greats of music who understands old and new music. Her ravishing voice can illuminate both ballads and Boogie Woogie like no one else’

The tour will also mark an exciting new chapter as Ed Richardson is welcomed in as the orchestra’s new drummer, following the retirement of the legendary Gilson Lavis. After starting out together in Squeeze, Gilson became a cornerstone of Jools' Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, keeping the beat over a span of several decades and retiring with an incredible legacy.

Reflecting on his new role, Ed says: “I’ve been a fan of Gilson since my Dad first sat me down in front of the Hootenanny. His iconic style left an indelible mark on me. To now step into his shoes is both a challenge and an honour. I’ll do my utmost to continue his legacy and keep the drum chair as exciting as he made it!”

Fans will be thrilled to hear that the shows will once again feature the incredible ‘Queen of Boogie Woogie’ Ruby Turner, as well as the outstanding vocals of Louise Marshall, and Sumudu Jayatilaka. Together with the skilful musicianship of the Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, Jools Holland will be performing songs from throughout his career. With a catalogue of classics to choose from, the show is sure to have fans on their feet!

Imelda May

Born and raised in The Liberties area of Dublin, Imelda May has become one of the UK & Ireland’s most celebrated female artists. Her self-written & produced album "Love Tattoo" is the best-selling album of all time by a homegrown female artist in Ireland and her most recent album “11 Past the Hour” released in April 2021 marks her fourth Number 1 album in Ireland and fourth Top 10 in the UK. Imelda’s recent albums are a departure from her early rockabilly revival style with a sound that sits firmly outside of any sharply defined genre box, widely spanning blues, rock, soul, gospel and jazz.

Imelda was discovered by Jools Holland, who asked her to support him on tour.