Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra

If you are looking for plans towards the end of the year, Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra are scheduled to perform at the Brighton Centre on Saturday, 12 December 2026. The show is set to start at 19:30, bringing a mix of blues, swing, boogie-woogie, and ska to the venue as part of their 2026 Autumn/Winter UK tour. It is a familiar setup for those who follow the band, as Jools Holland has been leading this 19-piece ensemble since 1987, evolving from the original Big Band format into the current lineup.

The performance will feature a few recurring names alongside Holland. The soul singer Roachford is joining the tour as a special guest for all dates, and the evening will open with a set from the pianist Joe Webb. The vocal section of the orchestra includes Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall, and Sumudu Jayatilaka. Musically, the band maintains a consistent structure, with a brass section that includes players like Phil Veacock, Michael 'Bammi' Rose, and Derek Nash, supported by a rhythm section featuring Ed Richardson on drums, Mark Flanagan on guitar, and Dave Swift on bass, among others. The setlist typically draws from Jools Holland’s long career, focusing on the spontaneous, high-energy style that has defined his live shows for decades.

For those planning to attend, the Brighton Centre is located on Kings Road, BN1 2GR. While specific ticket prices are currently listed as to be confirmed, the event is a ticketed show. Sales opened to the general public on 30 January 2026, and tickets are available through the venue’s box office, as well as via Ticketmaster and See Tickets. It is worth noting that this tour is quite extensive, covering 31 dates across the UK, so the Brighton stop is one of many opportunities to see this specific production this year. Whether you are a long-time listener of his work or just interested in a night of live big band music, the logistics are straightforward for anyone familiar with the Brighton Centre's event schedule.