Britain's Got Talent: What happened to saxophonist Julian Smith?

10 April 2019, 17:24

By Tom Eames

It's been 10 years since Julian Smith won the heart of the nation with his beautiful saxophone playing.

In the 2009 final, Julian finished in third place, behind only winners Diversity and the might of Susan Boyle.

But what happened to Julian next?

  1. Who is Julian Smith?

    Julian Smith
    Julian Smith. Picture: Julian Smith

    Julian Smith - who celebrates his 50th birthday in 2019 - is a British saxophonist and music teacher from Halesowen.

    He is also known by his stage name Joolz Gianni. He has previously made guest appearances with artists such as Tony Hadley, Rose Royce's Gwen Dickey and Hamish Stuart of the Average White Band, and has performed with Chris Rea, M People, and Dina Carroll.

    In 2003, he released a solo album, Chilled 2 the Sax.

  2. Julian Smith on Britain's Got Talent: Where did he finish?

    In April 2009, during the third series of Britain's Got Talent, Julian entered as a contestant with his saxophone.

    He won a standing ovation after his performance of 'Somewhere' from West Side Story.

    Simon Cowell said: "There could be something special about you Julian".

    He was then voted through to the live final by the public, and on May 30, he placed third with 16.4% of nearly 4 million votes.

  3. Julian Smith after Britain's Got Talent: Where is he now?

    Nights in White Satin.MOV

    Surprisingly considering his success on BGT, Julian didn't land a major recording deal after the series finished.

    In 2010, he released the album Somewhere via Big Bear Records, containing covers of classic songs including 'Yesterday', 'Bring Me to Life' and 'Nights in White Satin'.

    He has released seven albums in total, including 2015's Wonderful World. His albums can be found via his official website.

    Julian's website states that he often performs at private gigs, corporate events, weddings, theatre tours and cruise ships since his appearance on the show.

    He also performed alongside his hero Kenny G at the Royal Albert Hall, where he was presented with a signed saxophone.