#SparktheArtsNC Artist Spotlight: Juan Holladay

Juan Holladay has been singing, writing songs, and playing in bands since he was twelve years old. In 2006, he relocated from Tucson to Asheville and formed an alternative R&B band called the Secret B-Sides. Since then, he has come into a more lo-fi, down-tempo, sample-based sound with the release of solo material and video content. The nature of Juan’s art is candid and personal, reflecting heavy collaboration with Asheville’s creative community. Juan’s daughter Ora is a member of LEAF Lights and is following in her father’s footsteps as a vocalist, songwriter, musician, and performer.

Join us on Saturday, December 16, 5 p.m., for a free concert by Juan, at LEAF Global Arts, followed by a community discussion. Juan will be performing solo singer-songwriter style, with a surprise guest or two. He will also share a sneak peek of new material from his forthcoming album, Bedside Lights.

You can also catch Juan on December 23 at The Orange Peel with Free Radio & Magenta Sunshine.

SPARK THE ARTS is an awareness campaign designed to inspire public participation in the arts across North Carolina by highlighting the unique way the arts lift spirits, bring people together, and heal.

Created by the North Carolina Arts Council in response to the pandemic, our goal is to ignite the resurgence of North Carolina’s arts sector from the pandemic by connecting residents and visitors to arts experiences across our state.

Mayani is a Maasai boy from longido Arusha. He went to boarding school at 6 years old and lost his Maasai language and tradition. Since joining the LEAF program, he has learned to sing Maasai songs, practiced the ‘jump’ tradition and wear Maasai shukas (traditional clothing). Mayani is extremely happy and is currently teaching other youth the culture.