Episode 68 – Slim Jim Phantom

Born in Brooklyn and raised in Massapequa, New York, Slim Jim Phantom grew up listening to his parent’s jazz records and by the age of ten took up the drums. “To be honest I think the drums chose me, I can’t remember ever wanting to do anything else.” remembers Phantom. Immersing himself in the art of drumming and the world of music, Phantom took lessons with Mousie Alexander (who played with Benny Goodman) which included the study of jazz and working through books by Jim Chapin and Ted Reed. By the late 1970s he was playing in bands with his school friend and bassist Lee Rocker and they soon joined forces with guitarist Brian Setzer. During downtime from the Stray Cats, Phantom played in several groups, notably one with Rocker and guitarist Earl Slick, which produced two albums, and The Swing Cats. Phantom also played with Jerry Lee Lewis. He formed Col. Parker along with former Guns N’ Roses guitarist Gilby Clarke, releasing the album Rock n Roll Music in 2001.

Still interested? Visit the artist’s official website or Wikipedia entry to learn more about this episode’s guest.