NANUET, NY – Nanuet’s own Rupert Holmes, famed for his 1979 chart-topper “Escape” (widely recognized as “The Piña Colada Song”), returned to his roots with a heartfelt performance at the Nanuet Library on April 13, 2024. This special event not only showcased his enduring talent but also highlighted his deep connection to his hometown.
Holmes, born in 1947 in Cheshire, England, was introduced to music at an early age, receiving a clarinet for Christmas at age 8. His profound musical journey was influenced significantly by his parents, especially his father, a Julliard graduate and World War II bandleader who taught in six Rockland County schools. Holmes’ early exposure to The Beatles ignited his passion for music, leading him to form his first rock band, The Nomads, and later, The Court Jesters, largely comprised of Spring Valley locals.
His breakthrough came unexpectedly when Barbara Streisand expressed interest in his 1974 album “Widescreen,” leading to numerous collaborations with music legends like Dolly Parton, Dionne Warwick, and Barry Manilow. Holmes credits these experiences with catapulting him to success, yet it was always his return to Nanuet that kept him grounded amidst his Hollywood adventures.
The path to fame wasn’t straightforward. Holmes shared that his iconic hit “Escape” was almost different; the chorus initially included a nod to Humphrey Bogart before a last-minute change to the more vibrant and fitting “piña colada.” This serendipitous decision helped cement the song in the annals of pop music history.
Despite his global fame, including prestigious accolades like the Tony Awards for “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” and authoring a New York Times bestseller, Holmes finds returning to Nanuet deeply fulfilling. His recent performance at the Nanuet Library—where he once worked—was not just a professional highlight but a profoundly personal one.
Holmes’ advice to aspiring artists in Rockland is resolute: embrace every opportunity with enthusiasm and dedication, regardless of immediate rewards. His career, marked by persistence and passion, serves as a testament to the power of saying “yes” to possibilities, a philosophy that has guided him from Nanuet to Broadway and beyond.
As Holmes continues to inspire both old fans and new, his story remains a beacon for those dreaming of their artistic journey in Rockland County. His return to Nanuet not only celebrated his musical legacy but also reinforced his bond with the community that shaped his remarkable life and career.