Jools Holland and Imelda May headed to Leicester on UK tour
Jools Holland and his beloved Rhythm and Blues Orchestra are coming to Leicester as part of their 2025 Autumn/Winter tour. Joined by special guest Irish singer-songwriter Imelda May, the show will be touring around the UK with over 30 dates.
Starting in Southend on Thursday, October 30, the tour will visit iconic venues including London’s Royal Albert Hall, Manchester’s O2 Apollo. Leicester's De Montfort Hall is also on the tour list.
One of Ireland’s most revered artists, Imelda May was discovered by Jools Holland, first supporting him on tour in 2008, and has gone on to perform alongside legendary artists including Lou Reed, Bono, Tom Jones, Noel Gallagher, Elvis Costello, Robert Plant, Van Morrison, Jeff Goldblum & Ronnie Wood.
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Since being discovered, Imelda has performed all over the world in front of royalty and politicians including Barack Obama, and at the 52nd Grammy Awards with collaborator Jeff Beck. Compared frequently to Billie Holiday, the artist combines 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 female artist in Ireland.
Describing Imelda, Jools said: “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.”
This year also welcomes Ed Richardson as the orchestra’s new drummer, following the retirement of the legendary Gilson Lavis, who played with Jools for several decades. After starting out together in Squeeze, Gilson became a cornerstone of Jools' Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, carrying the percussion for years and retiring with an incredible legacy.
Reflecting on his new role, Ed said: “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!”
Squeeze 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. With the iconic musicianship of the Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, Jools Holland will be performing songs from throughout his career, including tracks from Squeeze and The The. With a catalogue of classics to choose from, the show is sure to have fans on their feet.
Tickets are now on sale via Ticket Master and SEE Tickets.
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