Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Born in 1996 in Niagara Falls, New York, Jorian Holka—known by his stage name akloh.—grew up in nearby Ransomville. Although Holka’s family wasn’t predominantly musical, they played an instrumental role in shaping his artistic development. From a young age, his mother instilled a strong sense of melody by singing him to sleep every night, fostering a deep connection to music. His exposure to 90s pop-rock through her, along with his father’s love for classic and psychedelic rock, laid the foundation for Holka’s musical exploration.
Holka’s formal musical journey began when his parents introduced him to piano lessons in kindergarten. This early introduction to music was pivotal in developing his disciplined approach to practice, something that would later influence his career. Throughout his school years, Holka participated in musicals and honed his voice, while also immersing himself in popular music. However, it was the discovery of Switchfoot’s The Beautiful Letdown and Green Day’s American Idiot in the early 2000s that truly set him on a path toward becoming a musician. These albums inspired him to pick up the guitar and dedicate countless hours to practicing and experimenting with other instruments.
Struggles and Transformation
While his musical journey was unfolding, Holka faced significant personal challenges. In addition to enduring body dysmorphia, he was diagnosed with anorexia, a condition that severely affected his self-confidence. Simultaneously, a life-threatening accident involving a utility vehicle left him with a fractured arm and a damaged face. These physical and emotional struggles were compounded by the onset of alopecia, an autoimmune condition that caused Holka to lose all of his hair. By the time he entered high school in 2010, he was dealing with insecurity and wore a prosthetic hairpiece in an attempt to fit in.
Despite these challenges, Holka found solace and strength in music. Music became a therapeutic outlet, and he began to channel his pain into his art. During his high school years, he began to explore powerlifting, which aligned with his desire to gain control over his physical progress. As his physical strength grew, so did his confidence, and he formed his first band, HolKampany. The band’s 19-track album Juvenile Gentlemen earned local attention, and the band became a notable part of the Western New York (WNY) music scene.
The Birth of akloh. and a New Chapter
Holka’s academic and career pursuits took a turn when he enrolled at The State University of New York at Fredonia. While studying for degrees in Exercise Science and Sport Management, he continued to nurture his musical ambitions. Holka, along with his bandmates, turned their college house into a popular venue known as North Pole Strip Club, which became a hub for house shows for over a decade. However, as the band’s direction diverged from his vision, Holka decided to embark on a solo career, rebranding to New History in 2016. This marked the early stages of Holka’s transition into the solo artist he would later become.
After graduating in 2018, Holka entered the fitness industry, initially working as a coach at Orangetheory Fitness before advancing to a regional fitness manager position. During this time, he also completed his Master’s degree in Exercise Science. While successful in his fitness career, Holka found little creative fulfillment. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, offered him the opportunity to reignite his passion for music. Inspired by his experiences, Holka made the decision to leave his stable career in 2023 and fully commit to his music.
Rising as akloh.
With the decision to focus entirely on music, akloh. was born. Holka quickly became a fixture of the WNY music scene, performing extensively and building a dedicated following. His dynamic vocals, percussive guitar playing, and engaging live performances set him apart from others. He gained significant attention not only through his live performances but also by establishing a strong presence on social media, which helped him connect with fans across a broader region.
In August 2024, akloh. released his debut album, anthology part i: the world’s most dangerous man, which showcased his unique rock sound. This was followed by the release of anthology part ii: the man in a dangerous world, continuing the narrative of his debut LP. These albums, along with the singles he has released, represent his first steps into the world of rock music as a solo artist. Holka’s music merges old-school rock energy with modern, anthemic rock influences, resonating with fans who appreciate his emotional storytelling and energetic performances.
The Future of akloh.
Holka’s determination to pursue his musical career is reflected in his ongoing work. With the upcoming release of his next single, ‘Mayhem of Today (All My Friends),’ he is preparing to release the full anthology album. Fans eagerly anticipate his upcoming holiday release and another original project that will chronicle his transformative 2023 experiences. Holka’s resilience and commitment to his craft have made him a standout figure in the Western New York music scene, and his future in the music industry looks promising.
Contact Information
For booking inquiries, media requests, or to learn more about akloh., please visit the artist’s official website or reach out through social media platforms.
In the years since Holka made the life-changing decision to pursue music, he has emerged as a force in the indie rock world. His ability to turn personal challenges into creative fuel is an inspiration, and as akloh., he continues to push the boundaries of his artistry. Whether performing live or crafting new music, Holka’s journey is far from over, and his story is one of resilience, creativity, and transformation.
Stay connected with akloh. through the following social media platforms:
Published by Anne C.
