It is a familiar tale in many ways. Gary Holton is one of many rock and rollers who should have been a huge star. He did achieve fame, perhaps not as he first expected. Holton’s end came far too early, adding another twist to his story.
Holton could rock hard; like many, he played hard too. He was a great rock frontman with the Heavy Metal Kids for many years. The band formed in 1972 and played a neat brand of glam rock that roughed things up a bit. That was ideal for Holton’s cocky style and Cockney sound.
The band released three albums in the 1970s and another in 1988. Live on stage, they were quite a triumph, though rude, rowdy, and loud. Perhaps like the band Faces on steroids. Holton played a huge part in all that was good, and not so good, about the band.
Missed chances to be a rock and roll star
The albums were decent, but didn't gather much commercial success. There was a US tour in 1975, supporting the likes of Alice Cooper and Kiss. Holton and the band went under the cut-down name of The Kids for that.
Holton extended his musical career with Norwegian Casino Steel, and a lot more albums followed. Along with some solo work. His stage presence and rock-star-pending label got him some great opportunities.
Holton covered for Dave Vanian of the Damned on a short tour of Scotland in 1978. He also auditioned for AC/DC to replace Bon Scott. What a prize that would have been for him. It's said his own drinking problems blocked that route.
Lots of music fans from those times may well remember Holton. But his much wider-reaching fame came from TV work. Holton picked up a part playing Wayne, a character in Auf Wiedersehen, Pet, a huge hit in the UK.
A different but brief fame followed
His character there was much like his own persona, but toned down to be a lovable, cheeky rogue, fond of drinks, women, and fun. He also had small parts in a few films and other TV shows. You could look out for him as a rocker in 1979’s classic film Quadrophenia, but you’d need to be quick.
The warning signs were there. He’d not be the first, or last, rock and roll star to leave too soon. Holton died in 1985; an overdose of alcohol and drugs was a shock, but no surprise really in his lifestyle. His life had been changing, thanks to the TV work. He was lined up to play Peter Pan in a theatre play that year. Quite a transformation for the hard rock star, but it was likely all too late.
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