The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival will pay homage to one of reggae‘s greatest rocksteady vocalists, the legendary John Holt, at their 13th annual event at Markham Park in Sunrise on November 9.
To honor the late singer and his work, there will be a special video presentation, and each performer on the festival’s Main Stage will perform one of his many hits.
The above photo is of John Holt performing on the Main Stage of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival in 2012 where he delivered a memorable set for fans, me included.
Holt’s recent passing on October 20 was a blow to the entertainment community and fans worldwide. However, the late singer is no stranger to the the festival. In fact, the last time he graced the festival’s Main Stage was in November of 2012, when he gave fans “1000 Volts of Holt” and then some.
“It was always a pleasure to work with John and he always delivered a magnificent performance whenever he graced our stage. We will celebrate his music and the happy memories with a special tribute,” says Eddy Edwards, CEO of Jamaican Jerk Festival USA, Inc., organizers of the event.
Holt gained popularity as the lead singer of the Paragons in the 1960s, when he wrote and released “The Tide is High”. The song gained international acclaim when it was covered American singer Blondie – putting Holt on the world stage. But at home, Holt was known for his biggest hit yet, “Stick By Me“.
Over the years, Holt had created an extensive repertoire while with the Paragons and as a solo artist. He will be fondly remembered for like “Police in Helicopter” “Tonight”, “Ali Baba”, “Love I can Feel”, “If I Were a Carpenter”, “Stealing Stealing” and many more.
JOHN HOLT: LIFE AND WORK ONSTAGE TV WITH WINFORD WILLIAMS
John Holt‘s contribution to Jamaica‘s vintage music cannot be overemphasized, and Jerk Festival organizers want to be sure to show their appreciation of the man and his work.
John Holt fans will not be disappointed.
John Holt – Stealing
The 13th Annual Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival is presented by Jamaican Jerk Festival USA, Inc., in association with Jamaica Awareness, Inc. Sponsors are Grace Foods, Publix Super Markets, Western Union, 1-800-411-PAIN, Craig Zinn Automotive Group, Jamaica Tourist Board, Red Stripe, Caribbean Airlines, Vitamalt, National Weekly, Jamaicans.com and SunnyBiz Transport.
