Brian Holt, son of reggae legend John Holt, is preparing to introduce a new generation to one of his father’s best-known recordings with a modern reggae interpretation of The Tide Is High.
The single will lead an upcoming EP. A music video is also being planned, while a full-length album honouring John’s catalogue is targeted for 2027. The Tide Is High was first recorded by The Paragons, with John on lead vocals, and later became an international hit through versions by Blondie and other acts. Holt believes its history and enduring appeal make it the right song to introduce the project.
“It was a major song for my father, and I have always loved it,” he said. “We are preserving the feel of the music, but the arrangement will have a more current reggae sound.”
Holt is recording with Whatage Music. The planned album will contain 12 to 13 tracks, combining selected songs from his father’s catalogue with original material. He said choosing the songs has been difficult because there are so many recognised recordings.
The Kingston-born singer grew up in the Red Hills Road and Meadowbrook communities before moving to Hartford, Connecticut with his father. His musical education began in recording studios, where he watched his dad work. He later sang on a small home sound system and appeared with his father across the northeastern US.
His first recording, Lost Dad, adapted John’s Lost Love as a tribute following the singer’s death. Holt later performed with Lloyd Parks and We The People Band at the 2016 Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival and at tribute concerts for his father in Kingston and Fort Lauderdale.
Now taking vocal lessons and writing original songs, Holt wants the new project to satisfy established fans of his father while reaching younger listeners.
“I want the longtime fans to relive my father’s music and support my journey,” he said. “For the younger audience, I want them to appreciate legendary music filled with love, good vibes and inspiration.”
