When one thinks of Gerald Holts...three things automatically come to
mind.... His big welcoming smile,
a very laid-back, but, hip demeanor,
and of course, his trademark deep voice. So, it comes as no surprise
that he would choose a career that would benefit from all of these
attributes.
Gerald Holts was born and raised in Omaha, Ne. He always had a love for
music, and would frequent a local barbershop; where some of the local
musician's would go to hang out, and hone their skills. From these
experiences, Gerald would teach himself to play guitar. He was
influenced by such musical greats, as King Richard, and Luther
Woodruff, of Luther and the Night Riders.
Gerald started his musical career, around 1957, as a bass vocalist with
the popular group "The Mixers" whose members, included Percy Chatman,
Jimmy Kelly, Harvey Rose, and Eddie Edwards. The group performed in all
of Omaha's nightclubs, and especially those on Omaha's famed North 24th
Street, such as, The Off Beat, Peppermint Lounge, and others.
Gerald recalls getting his first bass in 1959, and that would become,
his instrument of choice, and would also, begin his transition to the
jazz scene, where he would become, one of the most sought after; bass
players, in the city.
He has performed with Jay McShann, John Veith, Jeanne Rogers, Sonny Firmature, Roy Givens, Tom Henning, to name a few. And, he has played
in every notable club in Omaha, and surrounding areas. Among those
spots, were Dino's Apartment, Mardi Gras, Good Time Charleys, and Bob
Gibsons.
There were very few gigs that would take Gerald, out of the state. As a
devoted husband and father, Gerald chose not to leave his family, for
other venues, that would take him away from home, for too long.
He feels that being a good musician takes a lot of time and dedication,
which means endless practice, rehearsals, and time spent away from
home, which can cause a strain on a marriage. As he states."Your
instrument is your woman"
When asked; which famous people, he would have enjoyed performing
with...he immediately said Duke Ellington, and Miles Davis, two of his
favorite entertainers.
Gerald's advise to any young person, wanting to enter into the music
business is to take it seriously, and be dedicated. He feels anything
worth doing, is worth doing it right. That means having patience,
perseverance, and a strong determination to be the best.
Not only is Gerald an accomplished musician, he is also a skilled
barber, and has owned his own business, for over 38 years.
Gerald no longer plays on a regular basis, and states...." there are
only a few special people, that could get him; to come out of
retirement".
When not at his barbershop, Gerald takes time to relax, and catch up on
his love of reading, watching old movies, and historical documentaries.
