Celebrating Home Boy and Hard Fighting Soldier Cecil Lyde Holden
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I spent a lot of time with Cecil, personally and professionally. I dedicate this page to his personal and musical contributions!!!
Cecil passed November 2023
Listen to Cecil Gospel Airplay
Autobiography of Cecil Lyde Holden: The Hard Fighting Soldier
Early Years and Musical Beginnings
Cecil Orlando Lyde Holden was born on September 20, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. His musical journey began at a remarkably young age. By the time he was three years old, his talent was already unmistakable. Growing up in a household filled with the sounds of 78 RPM Doo-wop, Blues, Jazz, and Gospel records, Cecil’s destiny as a musician was set.
The Club DeLisa Talent Show
At the tender age of eleven, Cecil stepped onto the stage of the Club DeLisa, a celebrated nightspot in Chicago. It was here that he first showcased his vocal prowess. The audience was captivated by his performance, and Cecil’s journey as an artist officially began.
The Cavaliers and Local Talent Shows
In junior high school, Cecil formed a vocal group called The Cavaliers with fellow musicians: Bruce Fisher, Larry Fisher, Ricky Giles, and Sam Jackson. Together, they participated in local talent shows, leaving a lasting impression on the Evanston music scene.
Record Row and Collaborations
After high school, Cecil worked at various record companies on Record Row. His soulful voice graced the background of records by larger groups, and he even tried his hand at songwriting. But Cecil’s path was about to take an exciting turn.
Experience II: A Self-Contained Band
In the late 1960s, Cecil joined the United States Air Force and went overseas. Upon his return in 1970, he reunited with the Fisher Brothers and Ricky Giles. Together, they formed Experience II, not just a vocal group but a self-contained band. Their lineup included talented musicians like Jerry Soto, Barry Collins, Tudy Bryson, and Bobby Stringer.
Capitol Records and the Single Release
Under the management of Paul Gallis and Maury Lathowers, Experience II signed with Capitol Records. Their single, “Bout Time That I Told You Baby” backed with “Freedom Train,” hit the airwaves in 1973. Although the group recorded six songs, this single remains their sole release.
LA Bound: Pursuing Music Further
Cecil left Chicago and headed to Los Angeles, determined to explore music on a broader scale. Meanwhile, Bruce Fisher embarked on a successful songwriting career, penning hits for artists like Billy Preston, The Blackbyrds, and Quincy Jones.
Lyde, Fisher & Giles: United Artists Deal
Cecil, along with Larry Fisher and Rick Giles, secured a deal with United Artists. They recorded an entire LP, but only one single saw the light of day: “I’ll Always Love You” backed with “Serve Me Right to Suffer” under the name Lyde, Fisher & Giles.
Solo Career and Gospel Music
Cecil continued his musical journey, releasing more music on his own Alwest label. His solo album, “Stone Free,” was recently reissued by the P-Vine record label from Japan. Under the name Home Boy and the COL, he released additional LPs and singles. His passion extended beyond R&B, as he also delved into Gospel music.
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Legacy and Ongoing Creativity
Cecil Lyde Holden, aka “The Hard Fighting Soldier,” remains an artist whose impact reverberates through time. His soulful voice, resilience, and dedication to music have left an indelible mark. Today, he continues to record and release music, bridging genres and inspiring listeners.
Cecil’s journey is a testament to the power of music, resilience, and creativity. His interactions with fellow artists shaped his path, and his legacy lives on. ??????
For those interested, you can explore Cecil’s recordings through several CDs available on CD Baby 1 .
Cecil Lyde Holden: A Gospel Music Veteran
Early Influences and Musical Roots
Cecil Lyde Holden’s journey in gospel music began with the rich sounds of his parents’ 78 RPM Doo-wop, Blues, Jazz, and Gospel records. These early influences shaped his soulful voice and ignited his passion for music. By the age of six, he was already singing in church, and his talent was unmistakable.
The Gospel Musical Review
In his later years, Cecil became a prominent figure in the gospel music scene. He hosted the Gospel Musical Review, an urban gospel music internet live radio program that served Maricopa County in Arizona and reached a global audience. Cecil’s warm voice and deep connection to gospel music resonated with listeners from all walks of life.
Community Impact and Inspirational Programming
The Gospel Musical Review wasn’t just about music; it was a platform for community engagement. Cecil used the show to share community news, uplift spirits, and inspire listeners. Here’s what you could find on the program:
Collaborations and Impact
Cecil’s gospel albums, distributed across the nation and internationally, garnered acclaim within the gospel communities. His collaborations with fellow artists and musicians enriched the gospel landscape. Whether it was a heartfelt ballad or an uplifting praise song, Cecil poured his heart into every note.
The Legacy Lives On
Today, Cecil Lyde Holden, affectionately known as “The Hard Fighting Soldier,” continues to make an impact. His voice echoes through the airwaves, bridging generations and inspiring those who tune in. His dedication to gospel music remains unwavering, reminding us that music can heal, uplift, and connect us all.
Cecil’s story is one of faith, resilience, and unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel message.
Cecil Lyde Holden, also known as “Hard Fighting Soldier,” has left an indelible mark on the gospel music scene with his soulful voice and heartfelt compositions.
Cecil Lyde Holden’s gospel music legacy continues to inspire listeners, bridging generations and spreading messages of hope and love.