John Holt

John Kenneth Holt OD (11 July 1947 – 19 October 2014) was a Jamaican reggae singer celebrated for his work with The Paragons and a highly successful solo career. Born in Greenwich Farm, Kingston, he showed early talent by winning numerous Vere Johns talent contests as a child. In 1965, he joined The Paragons alongside Bob Andy, Garth “Tyrone” Evans, and Howard Barrett. The group recorded for Studio One and Treasure Isle, delivering classic hits such as “Ali Baba,” “Tonight,” “I See Your Face,” “Wear You to the Ball,” and Holt’s own composition “The Tide Is High” (later a global hit for Blondie). As a solo artist, Holt became one of reggae’s biggest stars in the 1970s, recording for producers including Bunny Lee, Harry J, and Lee “Scratch” Perry. Standout hits included “A Love I Can Feel,” “OK Fred,” “Police in Helicopter,” and the UK Top 10 success “Help Me Make It Through the Night” from the album 1,000 Volts of Holt. His smooth, romantic style helped pave the way for lovers rock. Holt was awarded the Order of Distinction in 2004, performed with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and saw 1,000 Volts of Holt certified gold in the UK in 2022. He passed away from colon cancer on 19 October 2014 in London, leaving a rich legacy as one of reggae’s most influential vocalists.