For as long as he can remember, recording artiste Bamm Holt has been around music. In fact, as the grandson of the late reggae legend, John Holt, the artistry is embedded in his DNA. In a recent interview with The Gleaner, the entertainer shared that he has made it his musical mandate to continue the legacy of the Holt family patriarch. At that time, the young Holt was gearing up to release a new album, dubbed Voltz of Holt. The compilation, which made its official debut yesterday, will see Bamm Holt reviving some of his grandfather’s classics, alongside his father, Junior Holt. Police in Helicopter and Wildfire, Holt’s mega-collab with the late Dennis Brown, are among the songs set to be repurposed for the project. According to Bamm Holt, the project will pay tribute to and honour his late grandfather’s memory and serve as an introduction of sorts for him as a solo artiste. Following the release of that project, Five Questions With has sought to delve a bit deeper into the man that is Bamm Holt. Journey with us as we get to know more about the youngster who will continue to build on the already sturdy Holt foundation.
How did you get the name ‘Bamm’, and why did you decide to use it as your stage name?
I got the name ‘Bamm’ from being a strong baby (laughs). It stuck with me through my life, so I decide to use it as my stage name. It represents who I am as an artiste; I am strong. Plus, I knew it would set me apart from everyone else; it’s unique.
What do you want people to learn about who you are as an artiste?
I would like people to learn about my journey. Where it started and where it’s heading, and also to give an open ear to a new style of music. They won’t be disappointed.
When was your last visit to Jamaica, and what is your all-time favourite thing to do on the island?
My last visit to Jamaica was back in 2010 when my grandmother passed away. My favourite thing to do while in Jamaica is visit Hellshire Beach in Portmore. I love the food there. It’s amazing. The best!
What are three things people would be surprised to know about you, and what has been the biggest lesson you’ve learnt from your grandfather’s legacy?
Three things people would be surprised to know about me are: I was born in Jamaica, I played college football, and I love dogs. The biggest lesson I have learned from my granddad’s legacy is music is forever. Love the music and the fans, and they will love you back.
Music is not the only way you plan to continue your grandfather’s legacy. You also have a foundation. Tell us about that. When did it start, and what is the foundation’s mandate?
The Voltz of Holt Foundation started in April 2020 during the COVID scare. Alongside my partners in the media, the foundation was able to give a helping hand to those in need. We did care packages, helped with school supplies, etc. Since then, we have tried our best to help out every season the best we can, and by God’s grace, we will continue to do just that. The foundation is also a great way to honour my grandfather, who would have been happy with the work we are doing.