Acclaimed British pianist and keyboardist Jim Watson has built a distinguished career spanning jazz, pop, and studio work that reflects both extraordinary versatility and deep artistry. A first-class honours graduate from Leeds College of Music, Watson went on to study at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama under the tutelage of pianists Simon Purcell and John Taylor, before establishing himself as one of the UK’s most sought-after musicians.
Since moving to London in 1996, Watson has collaborated with an impressive roster of internationally renowned artists. His jazz credentials include performances with Kurt Elling (appearing on the 2020 ‘Live At Ronnie Scott’s’ album), Manu Katché, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Bobby Watson, whilst his pop and session work has seen him tour and record with Sting, Katie Melua, Zero 7, Brand New Heavies, Incognito, and Chrissie Hynde. Watson has also served as Musical Director for Marti Pellow and currently plays keyboards in the Strictly Come Dancing house band.
His technical brilliance and distinctive style have earned critical acclaim, with Time Out describing him as a “classy jazz pianist” and reviewers noting his McCoy Tyner-like percussive chords. Watson’s early career achievements include winning the 1998 BT Jazz Award for Rising Star and Best Soloist at the 1996 Europ Jazz Contest.
In July 2025, Watson released ‘Calling You Home’, his first solo piano album in over two decades. The deeply personal recording combines six original compositions with imaginative interpretations of jazz and pop standards, marking a return to the intimate piano playing of his childhood. Watson also serves as piano tutor at the Royal Academy of Music, sharing his considerable knowledge with the next generation of musicians.