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John Holiday: Tiny Desk Concert
Set list
- Reynaldo Hahn: À Chloris
- Traditional (arr. Hall Johnson): I’m Goin’ to Tell God All My Troubles
- George Frideric Handel: Ombra mai fù (from Xerxes)
- Abel Meeropol: Strange Fruit
- James Johnson/J. Rosamond Johnson: Lift Every Voice and Sing
About
Countertenor John Holiday delivered a mesmerizing performance at a recent Tiny Desk concert that showcased his captivating blend of determination, wit, and optimism. The significance of this performance lies not only in Holiday's success on platforms like NBC's The Voice, where he was championed by John Legend, but also in his established career in opera houses worldwide.
Holiday's journey from his childhood in Rosenberg, Texas, where he first discovered his love for music, to his acclaimed performances at renowned venues like Carnegie Hall and the Metropolitan Opera, showcases his versatile talent. He has excelled in Baroque and contemporary composers' repertoire, opera, gospel, pop, and jazz music, even releasing pop singles and a jazz album.
One of the defining moments of Holiday's career was his role in the world premiere of Matthew Aucoin's Eurydice at the Los Angeles Opera in February 2020, leading to his Metropolitan Opera debut in December 2021. Notably, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Holiday continued to connect with audiences through virtual concerts like the one at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Holiday's Tiny Desk concert featured his vocal prowess and charismatic stage presence, highlighted by performances of arias and works by Black composers. His distinguished career, from singing at local churches and schools to gracing prestigious stages globally, exemplifies his dedication to music and his unique ability to transcend genres and styles.
Holiday's personal life, including his engagement to fellow The Voice contestant Rio Souma and his divorce from husband Paul Gater, adds layers to his narrative. As an openly gay artist, his advocacy for LGBTQ+ representation in the music industry is an integral part of his identity.
From opening for Jason Mraz to singing the national anthem at a Houston Rockets game, Holiday's varied experiences reflect his passion for music in all its forms. With his captivating voice and magnetic presence, John Holiday continues to enchant audiences worldwide, leaving a lasting impact on the realm of classical and contemporary music.