Scott Holt

Inspired by the rich musical legacy of the American South, rocker Scott Holt has been a torchbearer of the blues1 throughout his entire career. Holt embarked on his musical journey at the age of 19, joining his friend and mentor Buddy Guy2 as the second guitarist during the most successful period of Guy’s illustrious career. Over a decade-long tenure with Buddy Guy, Scott established himself as an incredible guitarist, a rich, soulful singer, performer, and storyteller. Traveling the world with Guy, he met and played with many of his heroes, including Eric Clapton, Carlos Santana, Albert Collins, and Double Trouble. Holt’s deep respect for blues tradition is evident; he believes understanding its history is essential to truly playing it. Whenever Buddy and Scott find themselves in the same area, Buddy always invites his friend to join him on stage—a sight to behold.
In addition to his tenure with Buddy Guy and playing on the GRAMMY-winning record Slippin’ In,3 Holt’s seven solo records have solidified his reputation not only as a six-string powerhouse but also as a penetrating and soulful singer and storyteller.
In 2014, a mutual friend introduced Scott to Foghat.4 They were seeking stand-ins for band members in case of illness or other scenarios where a member couldn’t play. Scott was suggested as a likely candidate, and Roger invited him to their Florida studio (Boogie Motel South). Along with Craig MacGregor and Bryan Bassett, they rehearsed the set. Holt did a fantastic job, and the band knew they could rely on him if needed. They all hit it off, quickly becoming good friends. During this period, Roger, Bryan, and Scott were hanging out and writing songs for fun, ultimately crafting about 17 songs. With Bryan Bassett not only as Foghat’s guitarist but also their engineer and producer, they recorded all the tracks.
In 2015, they had an opportunity to be an “audio engineering graduation project” at Dark Horse Institute in Franklin, Tennessee.5 Working with the students and staff at Dark Horse was a unique and inspiring experience. Their enthusiasm was contagious, resulting in six great tracks, including three original recordings. They decided to release these as a side project, needing a name. One evening, over a few glasses of wine, Bryan came up with “Earl & the Agitators.”
Earl & the Agitators6released a four-song EP in 2016 and a full-length CD, Shaken & Stirred, in 2018, which debuted at #11 on the Billboard Blues Charts. Along with Foghat bassist Rodney O’Quinn, guitarist Tony Bullard, and percussionist Mark Petrocelli, they formed a touring band, playing gigs when time permitted given Foghat’s busy schedule. It was evident they were having a great time.
Scott often played with Foghat, and when the band began work on their 2016 studio album Under the Influence with producer Tom Hambridge,7 Scott was invited to be part of the writing and recording process. He co-wrote a couple of songs and sang lead vocals and guitar on three tracks: “Upside of Lonely,” “Honey Do List,” and “All Because of You.” He also played guitar on four additional tracks: “Under the Influence,” “She’s Got a Ring in His Nose,” “Made Up My Mind,” and “Hot Mama.”
In 2022, when Foghat lead singer Charlie Huhn decided to retire, Scott Holt was the natural choice to replace him. Since becoming Foghat’s permanent lead singer, Scott has become an invaluable part of the band. His soulful, passionate approach to playing and singing, along with his long history with Buddy Guy and his embodiment of blues music, has brought the band full circle to their origins with Savoy Brown.8 His guitar work with Foghat lead/slide guitarist Bryan Bassett has left fans amazed, and he has infused a tremendous amount of joy and fun into their live performances and recordings.
Holt’s work with Foghat has been widely praised, with one review noting his “raspy vocals with soaring guitars” on tracks like “Mean Woman Blues,” and highlighting his ability to combine tight harmonic vocals with full-speed rock & roll on “I Don’t Appreciate You”​ (ROCK AND BLUES MUSE)​. Another review emphasized Holt’s role in driving the band’s performance, pointing out his stellar guitar solos and the energy he brings to the stage​ (Blues Rock Review)​.9
The current lineup recorded their 17th studio album, Sonic Mojo,10 released on November 10, 2023. It debuted at #1 on the Billboard Blues Charts,11 remaining in the top 10 for 27 straight weeks. Scott brought not only his amazing playing and vocal abilities to the band but also his terrific writing prowess. He and Roger Earl12 have just clicked, along with the rest of the band, truly having the best time of their lives doing what they love best: making music and bringing it to the fans.
Category:1966 births
Category:Musicians
Category:Guitarists
Category:American people