Ken Holt, the Jacksonville-based Americana singer-songwriter, has crafted a heartfelt and deeply personal masterpiece with his latest single Shine, from the upcoming album Shades of Light. Released on December 20, 2024, Shine serves as a radiant highlight from an 11-track collection that explores the rich tapestry of Holt’s musical journey. The album, which will be available in full on January 24th via MTS/Virgin/Universal, seamlessly blends country, rock ‘n’ roll, bluegrass, and classic pop to create a sound that feels nostalgic yet fresh.
Raised in a U.S. Marine family and shaped by life across seven states, Holt’s musical influences are as varied as his upbringing. From his Uncle Henry’s gospel-infused mandolin melodies to the legendary guitar work of Duane Allman and Dickey Betts, and the timeless storytelling of Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings, Holt‘s inspirations are evident throughout Shades of Light. These influences converge beautifully in Shine, a track brimming with warm melodies, lush instrumentation, and lyrics that reflect hope and resilience.
Produced by Holt and recorded at Little Man Studio in Satellite Beach, Florida, the album boasts contributions from seasoned musicians, including Pat Bautz and Howard Laravea of Three Dog Night, violinist Kricket Moros, and mandolinist Frank Sanzone. Shine stands out with its meticulous arrangement, harmonizing Holt‘s rich vocals with vibrant strings and a rhythm section that echoes the timeless Americana spirit. The track’s uplifting energy and heartfelt message make it an instant favorite for fans of authentic, roots-inspired music.
Ken Holt’s journey through music is a story worth telling. Beginning in the 1970s as a bassist for the New England band The Blend, Holt toured extensively, opening for iconic acts like The Who, ZZ Top, and Hall & Oates. After years on the road, he found a new calling as a pastor and youth minister in the Presbyterian Church. Despite the shift in focus, music remained a constant in his life. Shades of Light represents a return to his creative roots, blending decades of experience and faith into a cohesive and inspiring body of work.
“This album reflects where I’ve been and where I hope to go,” Holt shares. “It’s a culmination of everything I’ve experienced—faith, family, and the power of music to bring people together.”
As part of the duo The Promise, Holt recently made waves with a debut performance at the 2024 Florida Americana Music Festival, earning rave reviews. With Shades of Light and its lead single Shine, Holt proves that his passion for storytelling and connection through music is as strong as ever.
Whether you’ve followed Holt’s journey from his days touring alongside rock legends or are just discovering his music, Shine is a testament to the timeless power of Americana. It’s a track that invites listeners to find joy, strength, and inspiration in every note. Don’t miss the chance to experience this captivating piece from an artist whose journey continues to illuminate the path ahead.
