Jools Holland’s annual Hootenanny is set to ring in the New Year with a star-studded lineup, led by Rolling Stone Ronnie Wood.
Wood will mark six decades in music by performing tracks from his recent anthology release, Fearless. Joining him is neo-soul sensation Olivia Dean, fresh from a breakthrough year that has cemented her as one of Britain’s brightest new talents.
Scottish icon Lulu will return to the stage alongside Jools and his band, while Jessie J adds her powerhouse vocals to the night. Fans can also look forward to garage king Craig David, making his first appearance on the show in 25 years.
The celebration continues with Heather Small, the unmistakable voice of M People, who will deliver two of the group’s biggest anthems: the dance-floor classic Moving On Up and the inspirational Search for the Hero.
Indie giants The Kooks will also take to the stage, performing timeless classics from their album Inside/Inside Out, ahead of its upcoming 20th anniversary, plus a track from their most recent record, Never/Know.
Frontman Luke Pritchard said: “We’re so excited to be back on Hootenanny. Big love to Jools for inviting us down to celebrate the New Year; it’s always such an honour and a genuine joy to be part of the show.”
He added: “We’ve been completely blown away by the reception Never/Know has had. The support, the messages, the crowds singing it back to us; it’s meant the world. Doing this show feels like the perfect way for us to say thank you to everyone who’s been with us on the journey this year.”
In keeping with the Hootenanny’s tradition of showcasing jazz, soul, and boogie-woogie, the lineup also features Imelda May, Mercury Prize-shortlisted pianist Joe Webb, drummer and vocalist David Hermlin, and the ever-vibrant Ruby Turner, hailed as the Queen of Boogie Woogie.
The episode will air on BBC Two on December 31 and will be available on BBC iPlayer.
