Reggae Fever honours John Holt

BY CECELIA CAMPBELL-LIVINGSTON Observer staff reporter livingstonc@jamaicaobserver.com

Friday, November 18, 2011

After nearly half a century in the local music industry, singer John Holt's voice continues to pack the 1000 volts he is noted for.

At the recent launch of Reggae Fever he had the roomful of guests that turned out cheering as he performed a capella, his voice as smooth as silk.

Next Saturday, November 26, Holt will receive an award for his contribution to the music industry from the organisers of that event.

The foundation singer expressed joy at being singled out for such an honour.

"I feel extremely good and proud. So many people doing good in the world of music and they chose me... that means I must be doing something good," he said.

Holt who has chalked up numerous hits throughout his career such as Tonight, A Love I can Feel, Ali Baba, Stealing, when asked if he was satisfied with the level of recognition he has received humbly responded, "I've received what I should have, it can't be more, can't be less. If there is any other thing, then let it be."

Promoter of Reggae Fever Donovan Carter says selecting Holt was not a difficult choice, "John Holt is one of my favourite artistes. I grew up listening to a lot of his songs," he says, adding he decided to include an award segment in the show because "I want it to be different from other events and to use it as a medium to get the youths to know about foundation artistes who have contributed a to reggae music."

With all his has seen in his many years in the 'biz' Holt says music remains a powerful force. "Music is something you can't direct, it just has its own way," adding that when he hits the studio, the music seems to just take on a life of its own.

There seems to be no slowing down where Holt is concerned as he is currently putting the finishing touches on his upcoming album — a collaborative effort with Stone Love Productions.

"All I can say is that it will be something to look out for," teased Holt, conceding that the tracks on the album will be a mixture of "yesteryear and today's favourites".

According to him he will be doing some covers of the hottest R&B tracks as well as some old favourites.

The singer recently released a "teaser" CD of his upcoming album with a cover of Kenny Roger's Write Your Name Across My Heart. This song, he says, seems to have taken on a life of its own as wherever he goes, he is receiving positive feedback on it.

"Look out for the real thing which will be even better," is the promise coming from John Holt.

"I have two more tracks to complete and then my part on the album will be over, the rest will then be left up to Stone Love Productions to put their finishing touches to have the album ready to hit the streets."

In the meantime, the singer is gearing up for his performance next Saturday . "Expect the unexpected... all kind a mix up — yesteryear, today and whatever I feel like singing."

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Reggae Fever honours John Holt