Isaac "Redd" Holt

Isaac "Redd" Holt (born January 20, 1932) is an influential American jazz drummer, best known for his work in the jazz and soul jazz genres. He gained prominence as a member of the influential jazz ensemble The Ramsey Lewis Trio in the 1960s, contributing to their hit recordings, including "The In Crowd" and "Hang On Sloopy." Holt's innovative drumming style, characterized by its rhythmic complexity and incorporation of funk elements, helped shape the sound of soul jazz during this era. In addition to his work with Lewis, Holt co-founded the group The Redd Holt Unlimited, which achieved success with the album "The Redd Holt Unlimited" in 1969. He also collaborated with a variety of artists across genres, including jazz, R&B, and rock, further showcasing his versatility. Holt's impact on music lies in his ability to blend jazz with popular music forms, influencing subsequent generations of drummers and musicians. He is celebrated not only for his technical skill but also for his contributions to the development of soul jazz and the broader jazz landscape. His work continues to resonate, highlighting the importance of rhythm in jazz and its cross-genre appeal.