Holmes began his musical journey in the late 1970s and early 1980s, performing with local Los Angeles bands such as Buster Savage, LAX, and Slave. His talent and dedication soon caught the attention of fellow musicians Blackie Lawless and Randy Piper, leading to the formation of W.A.S.P. in 1982. As the lead guitarist, Holmes contributed to the band’s early success, playing on their first four studio albums: “W.A.S.P.” (1984), “The Last Command” (1985), “Inside the Electric Circus” (1986), and “The Headless Children” (1989). These albums were instrumental in establishing W.A.S.P. as a significant force in the heavy metal scene.