Later… With Jools Holland: Franz Ferdinand to Beverley Knight
Tune in for Joy Crookes, Alt-Blk Era, Metal Horse, Jackson Dean and more on BBC Two Sunday
Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a content writer, covering parenting and films. She writes for Hollywoodjunction and Momjunction. Her interest in journaling and writing made this biotechnology postgraduate to take up content as her full-time profession.
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Guest Highlights
Jools Holland has unveiled a lineup brimming with eclectic talent for this Sunday’s episode of his flagship music show. Leading the bill is Scottish rock outfit Franz Ferdinand, whose 2004 Mercury Prize–nominated debut spawned the indie anthem “Take Me Out.” They’re joined by London soul singer Joy Crookes, a BRIT Award nominee celebrated for her rich vocals and introspective songwriting on tracks like “Feet Don’t Fail Me Now.” Rising R&B duo Alt-Blk Era and helter-skelter rock project Metal Horse will add fresh edge, while American country newcomer The Jackson Dean—known for his single “Don’t Come Lookin’”—and folk-country artist Cameron Winter bring a rootsy twist.
Soul powerhouse Beverley Knight, often dubbed the Queen of British Soul, returns with her velvet vocals, and 80s icon Holly Johnson—frontman of Frankie Goes to Hollywood—rounds out the bill for a set of live performances.
Show Details
Jools made the big reveal in an Instagram post on 20 May, writing: “We have another fantastic lineup on this week’s episode of Later. I will be joined by @franz_ferdinand, @joycrookes, @altblkera, @metalhorse_tor, @thejacksondean, @mrcameron_winter, @beverleyknight and @mrhollyjohnson. I am very much looking forward to it, so please do join us by tuning in on @bbctwo this Sunday 25th May at 10pm, or by catching up on @bbciplayer.”
This episode drops on BBC Two at 10pm on 25 May, with full performances and interviews available afterward on BBC iPlayer. Last week’s series opener—airing 18 May—featured Cynthia Erivo, CMAT, Skin, The Heartworms and Sam Amidón, setting a high bar for live music on television.
About Jools Holland
Jools Holland is an English pianist, bandleader and broadcaster who first rose to fame as the keyboard player for new wave band Squeeze. Since 1992, he has fronted Later… with Jools Holland, delivering an influential platform for established and emerging artists. Known for his vibrant big-band arrangements and deep catalogue of jazz and blues, Holland balances in-depth interviews with full-throttle performances. He also hosts BBC Radio 2’s Rhythm and Blues Show and remains a fixture on the UK music scene.
Why It Matters
Later… has long been a rite of passage for acts seeking to showcase their live chops on national television. From Amy Winehouse’s early acclaim to up-and-coming genres like drill and neo-soul, the show reflects Jools’s uncanny ability to spot trends and bring them to a broad audience. This week’s mix of stadium-fillers and underground stars underscores his continued influence.
How To Watch
• Date & Time: Sunday 25 May at 10pm GMT
• Channel: BBC Two
• Catch Up: BBC iPlayer
Whether you’re a die-hard indie fan, a soul devotee or curious about the latest country-folk crossover, this episode promises something for every listener.
From chart-topping veterans to genre-bending newcomers, the guest roster highlights the diversity driving today’s music scene. Be sure to tune in and catch these performances live or on demand.
Don’t miss a moment: set your reminders now and join the conversation online using #LaterWithJools.
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