Junior plans to keep Holt name strong

Two years ago, Jamaica lost one of its revered reggae artistes, John Holt.

Many years before his passing, his son recognised his own passion for music and has followed his father's footsteps in constant pursuit of musical success.

Born Garth Holt, recording artiste Junior Holt plans to keep on his father's name with his own musical work.

It was in 1988 that the younger Holt officially began his journey into music, but with intermittent frequency.

"I wouldn't say I've been in the business for 30 years," Holt told THE STAR. "Even before I recognised my father as a musician, I used to imagine myself having a microphone and singing in front of an audience. It's something I have for a time."

According to Holt, he got serious about the music business in the '90s. Since then, he's worked on a number of projects with well-known producers, including Sir Coxsone Dodd and Handel Tucker.

STUDIO ONE LABEL

Holt has also performed with the Sanchez-owned Sexilus Sound on Wednesday nights in Standpipe. He migrated to the US, where he was introduced to Sir Coxsone, with whom he recorded singles on the Studio One label.

In 2000, along with Richie Calbut McPherson, Holt put together a five-piece band called The Calbut Band.

With Holt as lead singer, the band performed in Connecticut and in some New York boroughs.

Currently recording with Wattage Label, Holt recently released the single, Heartbreaking Lover.

Holt said that his aim is not to become a reggae legend like his father, but to keep making good music.

"I can just keep doing his work, to keep on his name. I got sons coming up, and I have other brothers trying to come into it now. It will always be a constant with John Holt's family," he said.