16 September 2026
Newsdesk
Musician Jacob Collier is set to make CBeebies Bedtime Stories history, becoming the first-ever reader to compose a completely original piece of music to accompany their reading. The Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist will read The Big-Time Boogie-Woogie Animal Band, written by Giles Andreae and illustrated by Nick East, airing on CBeebies on Friday 18 September 2026 at 6.50pm.
Collier’s bespoke score is designed to bring the story’s vibrant soundscape directly to life for young viewers and their families. The Big-Time Boogie-Woogie Animal Band follows a colorful ensemble of musical animals as they join forces to create music together, featuring everything from a piano-playing polar bear to a cool koala rocking the saxophone.
Widely celebrated for his innovative musicianship, complex arrangements, and distinctive approach to genre-bending sound, Collier was selected as the ideal storyteller for the joyful tale, which centers on rhythm, creative expression, and finding one's unique place in a band.
Reflecting on the milestone broadcast, Jacob Collier shared that bedtime stories were a foundational part of his childhood, forging his inner creative world. When approached by CBeebies, he immediately knew he wanted to build a custom musical environment around the text, ensuring every animal and instrument was represented within the overall arrangement. He expressed hope that the final piece will spark joy for young audiences.
With this appearance, Collier joins an elite roster of music icons who have taken to the CBeebies sofa to read for children and families. Previous musical guests include Dolly Parton, Elton John, Billie Eilish, Harry Styles, Gregory Porter, Jarvis Cocker, Kylie Minogue, Mark Ronson, Jessie J, Jade Thirlwall, and Robbie Williams.
Jacob Collier’s historic CBeebies Bedtime Story will air on Friday 18 September 2026 at 6.50pm on CBeebies, and will be available for streaming nationwide on BBC iPlayer.
