LATEST Q&A INTERVIEW WITH SLIM JIM
December 2006 (23-Dec-06) - READ INTERVIEW NEW!

PREVIOUS Q&A INTERVIEWS WITH SLIM JIM
September 2006 Part 2 (8-Sep-06) - READ INTERVIEW
September 2006 Part 1 (5-Sep-06) - READ INTERVIEW

September 2005 (15-Sep-05) - READ INTERVIEW
January 2005 (11-Jan-05) - READ INTERVIEW

June/July 2004 Part 2 (2-Jul-04) - READ INTERVIEW
June/July 2004 Part 1 (22-Jun-04) - READ INTERVIEW
February 2004 (10-Feb-04) - READ INTERVIEW

Transcription of Q&A section on Jim's Rockabilly Rocking Swing video - READ INTERVIEW

SLIMJIMPHANTOM.COM FESTIVE Q&A DECEMBER 2006 (23-Dec-06)

Question: Hi there "Do you prefer the UK at christmas or Is It the USA that floats your boat at this festive time ?" Personally I would love to bob over to see the American festivities as we hear and see how fabulous some of the places are, you are lucky that you have seen both. Perhaps there may even be a completely different Country that you prefer to be In at christmas.......Look forward to your answers Merry Christmas love and best wishes
Lorraine xxx (I just love christmas....), UK
Jim answers: Honestly, I don't like the cold and that dictates where I am for x-mas, if I have the choice. L.A. is great, sunshine on x-mas. I spent all my childhood ones in N.Y. and that has its charm. I haven't been back to N.Y. for the holidays in a few years. I used to spend every x-mas in Stockholm and that was cool, too - it looks like a x-mas card. If you're with kids it's always better regardless of where you are.

Question: Slim Jim, You have probably noticed that certain times in your life, that certain songs fit what is going on in your life at that time.  So my question to you is:  "What song fits your life at this moment and explain why?" Thanks for your time. Sincerely,
Marcy
Jim answers: I always like the same songs. Recently, we finished the Dead Men Walking album and we've all had to make notes and send various mixes back and forth. I'm really digging those songs at the moment. For x-mas it's Elvis and Johnny Mathis.

Question: Hello Jim, Gotta say you and Darrel Higham are the greatest team!I saw you playing in Pori, Finland last april. My friend and I,we got so excited that we jump into the stage with you,to"shake some booty"maybe it was too much,sorry about that,haha!Well anyways here´s my question for you: -Will Slim Jim Phantom and Darrel Higham make more recordings in the future and gigging also next year?Your fans for sure would like to see you again in Europe!We love you!! With love,
Annika, Finland
Jim answers: Darrel and I are planning a new record for the next tour of Europe. We're hoping to be there for some summer festivals and club shows. You're welcome to shake booty anytime you like.

Question: Hi Jim. Saw the DMW gig at Fleece in Bristol. Awesome night, thank you and hope to see you guys again soon. Our question is - What do you get Lemmy for Christmas? Have a rockin Christmas
Boo n Woody, UK
Jim answers: Lemmy's birthday is on x-mas eve, imagine the joy! So I can roll it all into one. I found a very cool Gene Vincent poster and had it framed for him. Good thing he doesn't have a computer, or he'd find out before I can give it to him.

Question: What have been the main changes in the music business since you started out in the late 70's? What are your thoughts on the downloading, internet influences on the business?
Jim answers: I don't think it matters so much what any of us think. It's a new way of doing things so it's best to try and embrace it. Luckily, I've done a few things that have had an impact and have long lasting, memorable appeal, a great fan base and hopefully I can always go out and make a living by playing rock and roll music while having fun and entertaining people - like a bluesman! Tower Records on the Strip is out of business, that's a good indication. I think all the new ways are cool as long as the artist gets paid. There are some exciting ways of getting stuff across. I'm trying to learn. I still like having a record and reading an interview in a newspaper.

Question: Can you tell us about your experience actually singing on the new DMW CD ... Little Miss Prissy? a great track but never on the Cats set lists for 25 years .. Can you give us the background to that track and why you chose to record it. Best Wishes for a happy and peaceful Christmas
Michael
Jim answers: That one was Kirk's idea. He learned the song with the idea of playing it on the tour. We all come up with songs by the other guys that we like. I could kinda warble that one out. We knocked out that record in one loonngg session, live in the studio. I still haven't had the nerve to listen to it. I hope it's o.k.

Question: hi jim, two questions acctually: 1 - i've seen you 2 times this year with the trio - at the "satanic stomp"-festival in speyer (germany) and at the "stereo total"-club in heilbronn later in the year. what kinda shows do you prefer? the biger ones or the smaller ones? from an audience-point-of-view the smaller venues are better (imo) - wonder what an artist is thinking about it... 2 - any news about a headcat-europe-tour in 2007? have a good time, hope to see you again next year! merry christmas! :-) cheers
andreas
Jim answers: 1 - The smaller shows are actually harder work. You're up close and personal and have to really concentrate. The gestures are smaller and so are the stages, in a big place you can make wider strokes. In a club you really feel the eyes of the audience. You can hear every remark. It's a smaller room, but everything is magnified. But at the end of the day, you still gotta play, gotta do a good show.
2 - The Head Cat will play Green Bay 50's Fest in May and a few shows around that. Everyone's pretty busy, so we squeeze some in when we can. Those are the only ones for '07. Hopefully find some time for a little recording too.

Question: Hey Jim! At the gig at Ruby’s Lounge in Melbourne, when Darryl’s amp gave him trouble, you stayed so cool and so professional. I’ve been in similar circumstances as well, but just wondered what your thought processes were and how you managed to stay so cool through it? Man that was a great night and I really enjoyed it. Thanks for comin’ all the way to Melbourne to rock out!
Danny
Jim answers: Staying cool in those situations is what really seperates people. You gotta stay cool like Fonzie. There is a powerlessness that you have to realize, freaking out doesn't change anything.

Question: Mr Phanotm, Whats the best christmas Present youve ever recieved? Keep up the rockin' good work amigo
Frazer, Preston, UK
Jim answers: I got a great suticase last year that I've used almost everyday since then, it pays to receive quality. I can't remember past last x-mas, some might have been birthday presents, some good clothes over the years. My little sister gave me a really cool scarf with skulls on it that I still wear.

Question: What is Slim Jim's fondest Xmas memory? What is his favorite Xmas song? Happy Holidays!
Eddo
Jim answers: When my son was little x-mas was a gas. I would spend it in N.Y. and he believed in Santa Clause. We'd leave a note and cookies for the reindeer. Like I said before, I like the Elvis x-mas album and the Johnny Mathis one (the one where he's standing in the fake snow holding the skis).

Question: Have you ever considered putting out an album or a tour, where you and possibly Lee Rocker back up a few of the great, but forgotton Rockabilly heros like Billy Lee Riley and Jody Reynolds?
Jim answers: I've thought about that kind of record a few times. Everybody is busy and wants to be paid, rightfully so. It would be hard to organize and fund, but would ultimately be very cool. Why can't someone else get it together and call me? I got the Head Cat together! I'd like to do a rockabilly album with Paul McCartney, too. Maybe one with Bob Dylan. Can someone call all these guys for me? Tell me what studio and what time - I'll carry my own drums!

Question: Jim, you`ve had the fortune, you`ve had the fame, you`ve even had a ride on that Big Old Mystery Train......... BUT, if there was one thing you could wish for this Christmas what would it be ?
Dave Moffatt
Jim answers: I'd like a new Corvette - what did you get me? I'd like to be of service, too - what do you got?

Question: I have a couple of questions for Jim, well one question and secondly I was wondering if he had some advice. Firstly, does he have any plans to ever release a rockabilly Christmas album? Secondly, does he think being a rockabilly and a cowboy is compatible and if so what would he advise on the clothing front? (I fear you might be able to tell as it's approaching Christmas we've already started drinking over here, though this is something I've been wondering about for a while and I feel sure he's the man to ask).
Have a great weekend and festive season. Take care,
Rebecca, UK
Jim answers: No x-mas record for me, there's too many great ones already out there. A rockabilly cowboy is by far the coolest possible look. Tough to pull off though, not everyone can do it. The stuff I used to wear! It still fits. You gotta have the right shape. Elvis in "Loving You" is the template. That scene changed my life.

Question: Hi how do you spend the holidays with your family? Do you have Brothers and sisters ? Your kids into music? Have you ever tried to play Guitar or standup bass even in rehearsals. With The Quakes we all can play standup bass and guitar, me playing drums and all those it helps creating new material and understanding transistions.
Chris VC
Jim answers: I spend the holidays with my kids. Brother and sister in N.Y. Some years we get it together. My son is a drummer, much better than me. He is in a band with Willem Broad, Billy Idol's son. If I played stand up bass and guitar, I wouldn't need any of them! That's pretty impressive that you guys can all play all the instruments. I'm still trying to learn the drums.

Question: Hello: Any US plans for SJP? Thanks,
MW
Jim answers: Hopefully some S.J.P. dates in March east coast U.S. Maybe a west coast run in April and then I'm doing Green Bay with Darrel and the Head Cat and a couple with Lemmy in the States. Wintersun in Australia.

Question: Of all your lawn gnomes is there one in particular that truly seems to enjoy the festivities of the holiday season more than the others?
73 Black Norton
Jim answers: I love all my gnomes equally - to favor anyone would be wrong.

SLIMJIMPHANTOM.COM Q&A SEPTEMBER 2006 Part 2 (8-Sep-06)

Question: Q for Jim..... Do you and Darrel plan to record another album together? Kat Men is superb.
Steve Lees, Derby, UK
Jim answers: Darrel and I want to do another record. Kat Men was a blast to make, another record with my pal Gilby Clarke. We want to get a proper release for Kat Men and then do another. It's all schedules.

Question: My question for Slim Jim is - I always thought that the song I Wanna Cry from the Stray Cats Rock Therapy album sounds more like Phantom, Rocker & Slick outtake, than a SC track. The guitar parts don't sound like Brian Setzer did them and I remember Earl Slick was thanked in the credits. Is there any truth to that?
Andrei Habonen, Russia
Jim answers: It could be Earl Slick on that one. Rock Therapy is a bit hazy for me, I missed a lot of details in the 80's, my further apologies to everyone. I remember we were all at Capital studios doing records at the same time so it makes sense.

Question: It's Saturday night I'm listening the Head Cat, love the Chuck Berry songs, I've been on the Internet for two years and I guess you've been on my favourites list for two years along with the other two (you know who). I've noticed you have a very gruelling tour schedule with SJP trio, Dead Man Walking occassionally with Lemmy and Danny not to forget the great Johnny Bowler and of course many guest appearences with Brian and more.
I often wonder where does a phantom sleep? Do you sleep at the place you've played, do you travel on at night, do phantoms sleep at all ? Looking at your tour list you must be a travelling man. Do you ever get to go to the launderette?
I live in Holland (I'm English) I always travel to your shows in Holland but wherever you go in Holland it's not far. Two hours and you're over the border. Your distances are much further. Look forward to hearing from you, maybe your answer my everyday question.
Keep on rockin.
Dave, Netherlands
Jim answers: Life on the road my friend. You do start to appreciate the smaller, everyday things in life - laundry, sleep etc. I love traveling, but I would like to find somethings closer to home -- got anything? Having said that, San Francisco is a six hour drive. Good company helps, Capt. Sensible is the best. No moaning on the bus allowed, we're all in this together.

Question: My question is, are there any plans to release Jim's tutorial video on DVD?
Scott Riddell
Jim answers: My instructional video was supposed to be released on dvd. Contact Carmine Appice at Power Rock Industries and rattle his cage.

Question: What about doing a live cd during these gigs in september ! I think that it will be great ! One of the best rockabilly band on stage !!! WOAW !! And a DVD ??? I think that it's a great idea when I listened to the "Jumpin' With Gene" live track on your site !!!
Jérôme Rasson, Belgium
Jim answers: Live records always sound like a fine idea. Good ones are still expensive to do. You try and do it right and then you hear/see so many bootlegs, you figure, why bother? We have a good live track on the Wild At Heart cd, the club in Berlin puts it out, it's got a lot of the acts who played there during the past year. But you're right, I'd like to do a good one with the trio.

Question: Did you follow soccer / cricket when you lived in England? If so what clubs did you support?
Michael, UK
Jim answers: I'm still in England a lot, so I follow soccer a little. I've been to a few Man U games with ultra fan Mikey Peters, he's got the Jack Nicholson seats at Old Trafford. We picked the lottery ticket on the field at half time last year at one of the games. Kirk was so worried someone would see him - 75,000 people, someone must have.
I usually find out who the band personel and the audience support and then cause trouble around that. I had a good rant on stage last year when they held the gig up over a qualifying game against Poland. You English take it sooo seriously, it makes the wind-up very easy. I want to wear a Cristiano Ronaldo shirt on the next Dead Men tour. The English have a hard time admitting defeat in world play, a scapegoat is always needed - the referees, the coach, the other players cheated etc. see.... you guys are already getting mad!! Works every time.
I lived very near to Stamford Bridge for ten years and still stay near there in London. I used to go to games with Jake Brown, I'd let him park in front of my house, he had great seats too. I've been in SW3 when they've won the cup and the league, so I guess I'm a Chelsea fan like Steve Jones and Glen Matlock's son Louie, but not enough to get into any real trouble over it!
Now cricket, I don't even know what's going on there - but I do dig the sweaters, does anyone know where to find a Jamaican team sweater? seriously.

Question: Please ask Jim what his all time favourite record is...
Greg and Buddy Alcock, UK
Jim answers: It's hard to do all time picks. I'd really need about ten but if push came to shove it would have to be Elvis Presley Sun Sessions album. It's pretty hard to top that. It was the one that really changed my life. I can still listen to it anytime, anyplace.

Question: What was it like playing with Jerry Lee? I saw you twice with the killer in Ontario in 1995. He was late for both shows and the band and crowd seemed tense. I remember you yelling encouraging profanity to him during the set..."Cmon you F***er, etc." It was a great show!
Lee McCormack, Pickering, Ontario, Canada
Jim answers: Jerry Lee was a real trip. Can't be compared to anyone - musically, personally, a true individual , a legend. What can you really say about him? A thousand stories, details at a later date. What you saw was a good microcosm of the whole experience, special shows, there's a lot more going on than just the gig.

Question: The physical demands of touring must be immense - how do you keep fit ?
Dave Moffatt, UK
Jim answers: The gigs keep me fit. Stress helps too. Sit ups in hotel rooms, gotta lay a towel down. I'm never off long enough to get too badly out of shape. It is the single most important thing in rock and roll - don't get fat!! Ask any chick. It's a truth in this game. None of us ever want to admit it. Nothing worse than a fat rock and roller on stage.

Question: Whats your inspiration, motivation for continuing playin, not just one gig, but all tours?! Who or whats the reason, probably its not just one???
Urban R., Slovenia
Jim answers: Motivation comes from a few different places. Paying the mortgage is the most important. You gotta work right? This is what I do, this is what I know how to do. I have a family that relies on me. I feel a duty to anyone who comes to the shows to give them a great night out. I love to play. I love to travel. I love the camaraderie with the musicians and crew. I'm thrilled when anyone turns up. It's still a great way to make a living.

Question: Who are the other writers on mystery train kept a rollin'?
Bob, Harrisburg, PA, USA
Jim answers: J. Reiten is Brian's wife, Julie, she is also a background singer in his orchestra. I must admit, I don't know the other person.

Jim adds:

Thanks everybody for the interest. Let's do it again. I just spent four hours typing, the first try didn't send, didn't save, I almost cried. Hopefully the second batch of answers was as good. Special thanks to Faith who makes it all happen.

Come to the shows, say hello. Come by the world famous Cat Club on the Sunset Strip when you're in Los Angeles. When I'm in town I'm there, we play every Thursday.

Please check out www.one.org. Get involved in some charity that helps all those less fortunate, it's so easy, you just gotta care a little bit. We are all so lucky. Wherever you live don't forget to vote - if you don't you can't complain!!!

SLIMJIMPHANTOM.COM Q&A SEPTEMBER 2006 Part 1 (5-Sep-06)

Question: Does Jim plan on getting any more skin art?
Max, New York, USA
Jim answers: No plans for any new tattoos, mine are rarely planned, but there are a lot of great new artists out there. I'd like to get one from my friend Mark Mahoney.

Question: Can you ask Jim where the most painful tattoo to date has been and whether there are any he 'kind of' wishes he had never had?
Justine, UK
Jim answers: All tattoos hurt, anyone who says differently is untruthful. Nearer the bone hurts more - ask anyone.

Question: What is your biggest regret to date, assuming that you have any regrets at all? Furthermore, what do you think would be your greatest achievement at this point in your life?
Debz, Washington, USA
Jim answers: My only regrets involve the band. I've a pretty amazing personal life. I regret the business decisions we made early on, we were young and had no real advisors. I wish we had made a few more records, left a better legacy, we always seemed to stop when we were really on to something different. We could have grown more, given the chance, it seemed to just fade away a couple if times. My biggest achievement has been survival. I've raised kids and lived an extraordinary life through playing my drums which is all I ever wanted in the beginning so in that case, it's all come true. I met and worked with many of my influences. I have a thousand great stories for a book which will be a real achievement when I get it together.

Question: Hey Slim Jim, was getting to record with Ronnie Crutcher on Brian Setzer's new cd the high point of your musical career ?
Ronnie Crutcher, Clarksville, Tennessee, USA
Jim answers: Playing with Ronnie Crutcher may not be the high point of my career, but it's in the top 200.

Question: I attended a Dead Men Walking gig last year and it was the most enjoyable gig I've been to especially the spirit in which the band played. Is Slim Jim surprised as to how good the band work together and how well it comes over to the fans, i.e great fun :o)
Paul, UK
Jim answers: Dead Men Walking is one of those beautiful things in life that just happen. Mikey Boy Peters, who is one of my oldest and dearest friends, called me out of the blue and pitched me the idea. I was in within ten seconds. The first time we played I knew it would work. Pure Fun. I get to play all those classic songs with the guys who did them first. The guys are true, unique characters, and have become my real friends. Mikey who is one of the best guys in this biz, if not the world, has been a friend for 25 plus years. Glen, Cap and Kirk are guys I had known but are now lifelong close mates. All of them are outstanding musicians and writers. A real privilege to know and work with them, that comes over to the audience.

Question: Hey Jim. In the early days of the Stray Cats, did you ever think that one day you'd be the prototype for virtually every standup-playin', cymbal crashin', bangin' & yellin', black leather jacket wearin', 40's hot rod drivin' drummer in every neo-rockabilly/punkabilly/psychobilly band? If you aren't the single biggest influence on a lot of us, I'd be very surprised. I know if you'd picked up the mandolin, instead of the drumsticks, my playing wouldn't be what it is today. Thanks for the awesome music, and keep on rockin'!!
Graeme, Calgary, Canada
Jim answers: I never thought of myself as an influence in any way. I was just trying to look, dress, act and play how I felt and stay alive on Long Island and then to get out. I was just trying to do something different and honest that was my own. Mixing styles, both musically and in a fashion sense to try to come up with something original while paying homage to all the greats. There are a thousand gifted drummers out there, I needed to come up with something that was mine. I must say that none of this would have been possible without Lee and Brian. I will always love and respect them for helping make this whole thing we created happen. It was the three of us. I hope that is always remembered.

Question: Dear Slim Jim, I want to buy a snare with a great 'old time' sound that won't put me in debt for the rest of my life. Can you please recommend a suitable model?
Colin Shaddick, UK
Jim answers: Any older drum from one of name brands should be good - Gretsch, Ludwig, Slingerland etc. It might take a little re-building and maintenance but drums aren't too complicated. If I can do it...

Question: Hello. I have some phantom guitars with a ghost over the phantom. I did a lot of research and finally came across something about the Stray Cats created them around 87? Do you know anything about this? I'm very eager to learn the history of the guitars I have been collecting.
Juston Carpenter
Jim answers: You got me on this one. I've never heard of this. I don't know anything about guitars. There must be someone else you can ask.

Question: First I'd like to say I'm a huge fan of you and the Stray Cats. I grew up listening to the Stray Cats and a friend recently introduced me to Phantom, Rocker & Slick. Great stuff. I have a question, Stiff Little Fingers do a song called Gate 49. In the intro to the song on the 'bbc radio 1' album, he says "this is a song we stole from the Stray Cats, its called gate 49". Now I'm wondering if this is really one of your songs and if so, is there a Stray Cats version?
Jeff Gentley
Jim answers: Thanks. PR&S was a great record. I'm proud of it. For me at the time, it was very different, different writing, playing, look etc. Hopefully some day they will issue it on cd. Lee and I have tried to petition the label for years - nightmare - you would figure they wouldn't need to be told, Keith Richards is on it, Nicky Hopkins etc. Two Stray Cats and a Rolling Stone, you figure that would warrant a re-issue. I dig Stiff Little Fingers. My man Steve Grantley is the drummer, and a monster at that. I don't know the song. Is it only available on the BBC record? Is there a way to get it on another regular release record? I'd love to hear it. Everybody loves the Stray Cats, especially other musicians, always have.

Question: Hi Jim, Maybe a silly question, but here it goes. When was the last time you had a Double Double and fries from All American?
John Convey
Jim answers: I haven't been to Massapequa in about 10 years. I do miss the french fries at All American. Is it still there? I am proud to say that I never worked there. Probably the best burger and fries in the world, definitely the best knish. That's about the only thing I miss. Fantastic memories though burned in my mind, I always wanted to leave, it was was a big inspiration.

Question: I want to ask Jim if he's still a NY Rangers hockey fan? Please run that one past him, and tell him it's from his old pal Flynn (that'd be me), who is still a NY Rangers fans in spite of the fact that he retired and moved to Florida.
Bob, Florida, USA
Jim answers: I'm not a big hockey fan, I would root for the Rangers if I was. The Islanders were the new guys, like the Mets. I don't know any of the players anymore. Where's Eddie Giaccomann, Pete Stemkowski and Vic Hatfield when I need them? Now, if you want to talk about the Yankees, I follow baseball wherever I am in the world. The internet has made it much easier. Used to have to try and find U.S. two day's ago newspaper on the road, always behind. I used to go to a lot of games with my pal Johnny Ramone - biggest Yankees fan and most knowledgeable baseball guy I ever knew - we'd go to the Angel's games when the Yankees were in town, a lot of Dodger games too (I still go to those), follow our fantasy players, we didn't care who won the game, just the stats, maam. It's cool, everyone from 'pequa winds up retired in Florida. How's your sunburn?

SLIMJIMPHANTOM.COM Q&A SEPTEMBER 2005 (15-Sep-05)

Question: Hi, Jim! First I gotta say that I love your music - I'm also in a band and I'd like to know what does it take to play with you - to be your opening band? That's my lifewish... so I'll be very happy if you answer this question... Thank you!
"Mad Brilliant"
Jim answers: The local promoters deal with the opening acts. I suggest contacting your local promoter early on. You've gotta be able to bring some people down to the show, if you can do that, you'll always be invited to do more shows.

Question: Hey Jim. I was wondering if you ever use cocktail drums instead of your usual stand-up kit? What do you find most desirable about one than the other?
Teresa Holsonback
Jim answers: I've only ever used a cocktail kit for fooling around, for me, it's not really loud or sturdy enough for a live show.

Question: Hi my question to Jim is when you're playing stand up it is a very visual thing and looks great but when you record with the cats, or when you've recorded with them, did you, or do you, stand or sit down ??
Mik Redshark
Jim answers: I've always stood up when making Cats' records - there's a certain energy and urgency that comes along with standing up.

Question: Hey, I was wondering how you develop speed one handed on the high hat, like in Elvis on Velvet? I need to practice those speed techniques, because me and my buddies are lookin to start a band, so I was just askin how you can practice that?
John Roberts
Jim answers: The best way to develop speed is practicing rudiments. I always warm up with very heavy metal sticks before shows, when you go back to your regular sticks, you're flying!

Question: Hiya Slim Jim. What would be the PERFECT drum set up for me to play Rockabilly? Many Thanks
Dave
Jim answers: Everybody likes something different - you just have to make sure you're comfortable with your set up.

Question: Hi Jim, I'm from France (sorry for my English spoken) and I'm a twenty-two years fan. I got a Gerry Laffy's CD where you appears, but no songs are mentioned. Do you remember it? A special appearance list on the site will be interesting. Thank for all man, keep on rockin'.
le neuf
Jim answers: Gerry Laffy is one of my oldest and dearest pals. The track was called "Do You Believe It". Good fact: John Taylor (another old pal) from Duran is on bass on that one.

Question: Slim Jim, I've had the pleasure of talking with you on a couple of occassions, you're always cool and generous with your time. Anyway, as a drummer you've been a real inspiration. I also dig Levon Helm and Charlie Watts. I know you toured with Charlie, but have you ever hung with Levon? He came up with some shows called The Midnight Ramble at his place in New York. You oughta sit in with him sometime. Take Charlie, too. Just thinkin' out loud... Thanks,
Bobby- Culver City, Ca
Jim answers: Charlie is one of my all time faves. Levon is a fantastic drummer and singer. Watch The Last Waltz... again. I love it! He has a groove all his own. I spoke to him on the phone once from my friend Harry Dean Stanton's house. I don't remember ever meeting him, but would love to sit and chat with him someday. Luckily I've spent some good quality time with Charlie on a number of occasions.

Question: I am wondering if you could tell me what video by Phantom Rocker & Slick was set in a carnival funhouse? That video made the transition from Stray Cats a lot easier to swallow. It was the only video I ever saw, as the video stations started showing more "mainstream""crappy" videos shortly after
Josh Dempsey, Calgary, Ab, Canada
Jim answers: The clip was for the song "My Mistake". The sexy lead is Elvira, Mistress of the Dark.

Question: Hi Jim. Reading part 2 of Danny B`s interview in rockabilly monthly (June edition), Danny said that 13 cats will be touring Europe later this year any chance it could happen? And will the DVD he spoke of be out later this year as well? Stay cool & keep rockin man. Cheers,
Allen
Jim answers: No plans for 13 Cats right now but if the right opportunity comes along I'm sure we'd do it. A great band and good friends. DVD comes out early next year.

Question: Lee mentioned at the start of the year that there were tentative plans to release a DVD of PRS. any news on this. It would be great for fans over here who did not get a chance to experience PRS live. On that subject - any developments re the plans to reissue the two PRS albums on CD?
Jim answers: Lee and I have been trying to get the rights to the P.R.S records for a while. It's a big label and hard to get anything done for something that happened so long ago. But we're trying.


Question: I saw Jim and the Stray Cats at Brixton Acadamy last year. Jim was wearing this really gorgeaus Sheriff's waistcoat. I am a Ted and this waistcoat would go really well with one of my suits. I was wondering where Jim bought it/ Had it made? best regards
Scott Riddell
Jim answers: I don't remember the exact waistcoat but we had most of our gear made over the years by the tailor extrordinaire Glenn Palmer. I used to find a lot of that formal, oldie worldie English stuff at a shop called Bertie Wooster on Fulham Road, Chelsea, London.

Question: In an interview that Jim does for "End of the Century" - the Ramones movie - Jim is wearing some really cool blue suede shoes ( not crepes though I dont think ) do you know what brand these are and where they might be available? Thanks very much!
Slate
Jim answers: Again, I can't remember exact articles of clothing. Most of that gear came from London. I do remember buying some suede shoes at an old teddy boy shop called Kornblouth's on White Chapel High Street in East London.

Question: Are there plans of a cd from the Slim jim's trio, live or studio? Or even better, are there plans for a live dvd?
Lots of people!
Jim answers: We're going to cut a record in January - have it out for the next tour - hopefully do a dvd then.

Question: If Jim ever has a spare moment from physically abusing his snare, I'd like to know how highly/or low he rates Darrell Higham in the league of guitar slingers? Thx and best wishes, A big fan
Mark Silman
Jim answers: Darrel Higham is as good as anybody, he's a great guy and an incredibly skilled guitar player. He knows and loves rockabilly like noone else I've ever met.

Question: What were Jim's thoughts about singing some cat tracks live on his recent tour?
Michael, Ireland
Jim answers: I appreciate anyone who puts up with my singing!!! It was great to sing these songs that I've played drums on a thousand times. I felt it was time to give them a go. Now I know how Ringo must feel!!!

Question: If you have this new tour next year with your trio (Jonny and Darrel) really hope to see you in Finland?!? It would be SO GREAT!! We finnish people love you!!!you are best drummer ever!! Rock on baby! :)
Annie
Jim answers: I'll always come to Finland. The Finns have supported this great scene of ours from day one and I'll go and play there anytime.

Question: Jim, do you wear ear plugs to protect your hearing when you play?
Dave M
Jim answers: Thankfully, I've never had wear earplugs.


Question: If you have never traveled in Europe in 1980 and the Stray Cats was unsuccessfully, what kind of profession (occupation) did you do or did you like to do ? Thank's a lot and sorry for my English. God Bless You.
Christian Werro
Jim answers: I think I would have always made my living through music but I was so young when we started the Cats and it's been such a major part of my life, that it's impossible to imagine what would have happened without that expierence.

Question: What music or bands is Jim currently listening to?
Jim answers: My son's band, they're called "Lucas", "The Mystery Gang" from Hungary and the "Sin City Circus Ladies" from Berlin.

Question: Hi Jim, Your fabulous European tour 2004 is still in our minds because it was so great and successfull; the audience was incredible, some gigs were sold out and it seems to me you didn't expect so much people. Do you have any idea of how much fans came in Europe to see the rockinest Cats in the galaxy? Anyway, you can come back, we'll be there again!!.
Fabrice Camaioni, France
Jim answers: I hope we'll get it together again and do the Cats, Those guys are my brothers and the finest musicians in the world. What we've done is more than just pop music, I believe that we've had more of an impact and affected actual lifestyle choices more than almost any other band in the past twenty years.

Thanks everybody... until we meet again! Jim

Question: Slim Jim I was in Ruisrock Festival, watching the great Stray Cats show, and I was wondering do you have some mikes in your fingers or something because the click of your sticks could be heard in the audience even though you weren't close to your drum set or any mikes? How in the hell do you do it? Anyway, I loved the gig!!! Thanks!
Kalle, Finland
Jim answers: I never thought of this until your question, so I listened for it and you're right - the stick clicks are very loud! It's just something I've always done, it's on a bunch of records. There are no special mikes. I guess it just gets picked up by the drum and vocal mikes.

Question: Hey Slim Jim! What's your opinion on Psychobilly?
Dutch Cat
Jim answers: I like the energy and power of pyschobilly. If it gets too fast it starts to lose the groove, it's a fine line, but I like the attitude and the fashion.

Question: Can you give us an insight into recording the new song "mystery train kept a rollin" - inspiration, who wrote the song, etc etc.
Jim answers: Mystery Train Kept a Rollin' was a song that Brian brought in already finished. The inspiration was a tribute to all the early rockers we all love so much. We learnt it and recorded it in about an hour, it was very natural and a lot of fun to record!

Question: Hi Jim, I'm from Denmark, and I've got one question (maybe it's more a wish) that I hope you'll answer. I kinda like stumbled upon the Col. Parker album 2 years ago and still I can't get it out of my head. So of course my question to you is: Do you have plans with Gilby, Teddy and Muddy to do another Col. Parker album sometime in the (near) future? Or do you wish to, but do not have the time?
Mogens, Denmark
Jim answers: I'm glad you liked it, me too! The Col. Parker record turned out really good, I'm proud of it and would like to do another someday. The guys are my pals and part of the Thursday night jam scene that we have going on at my Cat Club [visit www.catclubonsunset.com for more details]. Muddy's band is playing tonight! We did tour the States and hopefully will do more stuff together.

Question: I have a little question: Slim Jim used to play with gloves and I always wondered why (was it a style or did he need them?) and during the european tour, I noticed, like a lot of fans I presume, he played without them; so my question is the same: why??
Fabrice Camaioni, France
Jim answers: I don't know, I used to wear gloves all the time but in recent years found I can get a better feel without them. I used to find it hard to hold on to the sticks without gloves due to sweaty hands. Now I don't seem to have that problem and do prefer feeling the stick in my hand. The side affect is of course blisters, at the beginning of the summer tour I had some good ones! I'd never gotten them like that before. I play all the time in all sorts of situations, but I never get anything too bad, I have very thick callouses, but on that tour maybe the excitement got to me and I played even harder - I have spoken to other drummers about this and they all agree - when it's the big gig you play harder and the callouses can't save you!!!

Question: I have acouple questions, being a drummer that plays mostly in Europe and Japan. How does Jim ship his drum equipment? I saw before his drums were all held down together on a wooden template with shackles. How did that come about?
Chris Van Cleve, USA
Jim answers: I ship my gear with a company called Rocket Cargo (I think most touring bands do), it's a big co. that's been around for years. Maybe I can get Bobby to do a little piece [for the site] in the future, I still don't quite know how he does it.

Question: Hello Slim, wondering if you ever play a [full] kit instead of a scaled DOWN version??
Joe
Jim answers: I play a full kit all the time. In the last few years much more than the stand up style, each one makes the other more fun. For a lot of the other stuff I do I need a couple of more drums and the control of the hi-hat. I get the big bucks to stand up!!!

Question: Hi there, I have a couple of questions I would like to ask Jim. Firstly, what kind of ride cymbal do you usually play live? The second question is, are there any plans for the Stray Cats to tour Australia? (Please, please, please PLEASE say yes!!!)
Will, Australia
Jim answers: I use a 20" Zildjian K-Heavy ride or a 20" A Brilliant. We'd love to do Oz again, we're just waiting on a decent offer.

Question: Any plans for the Stray Cats to record a full album and tour the States, Europe etc etc next year?
Jim answers: I hope to someday do some more recording and touring... we'll see.

Question: Re the Stray Cats Euro Tour: Did Jim remember all the songs or did he have to practice a lot? And does he collected the cds that Brian and Lee bring out or is it not his kind of music?
Rene Nederpelt, Holland
Jim answers: I don't know how but I have thousands of songs in my head that I can always play, all styles and types of music. I have all the cds from Lee and Brian, they're my dearest pals and everything they do is great... it's them, how could it not be great?!

Question: Hallo I'm fourteen years old and I play drums have you any tips for me? I love your music.
Robbe
Jim answers: My tip to any young drummer is to obviously practice as much as you can. Learn to play with a metronome as early as you can. Try to find a style you like and develope it.

Question: The stage banter was funny to listen to on the [Cats live Euro] CD's. When Setzer referes to "Murphy" is he refering to your goodself ? If so how do you feel about your Irish roots? would you listen to traditional folk / celtic music etc.
Jim answers: Murphy is just a nickname that we all call each other, we are all Murphy! I can't remember how or why it came about, but it stuck, I'm sure it was some New York joke we had a hundred years ago. My roots are really Brooklyn ones. My Irish-American family have been in New York a really long time. I do dig Ireland and have always loved the Pogues, one of my favorite bands.

Question: Hi. I am a huge fan and drummer. I was wondering what type of drums you use and also what type of cymbals and footpedal. What size is your bass drum? I love the sound you get. Thanks
Scott Williams
Jim answers: The drums I'm currently using are made by a newer company called Peace - quality stuff and good people - I have a signature snare drum with them called a Phantom Beauty - Zildjian cymbals and DW pedals - I've always used a 22 inch bass drum.
(Note: find out more about Peace drums by visiting their web site at www.peacedrum.com)

Question: Jim, What kind of warm up exercises do you do before a gig? (stick control etc.) At home, what type of things do you practice?
Bob Capuano
Jim answers: I usually warm up at the show with metal stix on a practice pad, play some rudiments or just bang away with the very heavy stix. It's the important thing for me the past few years, I love it, it makes all the difference. When I hit the stage with my normal stix they feel like toothpicks and the blood is already flowing.
At home I play a lot on my son's v-drums - there's a thousand presets and little songs to play along with. I'm usually interupted way before I get tired or bored.

Question: I was looking into buying a drum kit and, as I'd like to stay friends with my neighbours, I tried one of these new Roland TD-8KV electronic drum kits. I'm only a very very amateurish drummer, but I thought the responsiveness and sound were truly amazing. I wonder what an obviously very physical and tactile drummer like you thinks of these electronic kits? Is it something you'd ever use, say, for practice? (please don't ever use one on stage!!)
FrenchNat
Jim answers: I recommend the electronic drums to anyone. There's a built in click track which is very important and you can use headphones so you can stay friendly with your neighbors! Roland makes great ones.

Question: Jim - On Gina and Bring it Back-did you have your drum parts and the music evolved around that or was it something you came up with when jamming?
Bob (Billy and the Bullets)
Jim answers: Gina was influenced by Buddy Holly so I tried to come up with a slightly whacked out Peggy Sue type part. On Bring It Back Again we just wanted something to push the chorus so I did the syncopated thing.

Question: Jim, if you recall the Roy Orbison Tribute concert from feb/90, how many songs did the Cats perform? “Rockhouse” was broadcast, but something tells me the Cats played a longer set. True?
Alex Acevedo
Jim answers: That was a crazy/hazy day! I remember a lot of waiting around. Bob Dylan gave me some whiskey when I really needed it - that I do remember! I don't think we did any other songs that day. I've never seen the show.

Question: Can you tell me approxymatly how much couple of sticks will you use next summer during the european tour? 2 at each concert? More?
Jim answers: I use at least two pairs per show, I switch in the middle because they get pretty chewed up by then but usually more because of breakage or me just dropping a couple!

Question: Would the CATS play "That's all right mama" in Paris next 5th july, exactly 50 years after Elvis released it in Memphis? What does Slim Jim think about the idea?
Fabrice Camaioni
Jim answers: I think doing "That's All Right Mama" is a great idea - I'll ask the guys what they think.

Question: Hi Jim, Any Stray Cats albums you don't like that much? I never understood the production of the "Let's go faster" album. All the best
Jess Rasmussen
Jim answers: I think Gonna Ball could have been better. We were being rushed by the label and Dave Edmunds wasn't available. Now I wish we had waited but once they're released there's nothing that can be done, some will always be better than others.

Question: Hi Jim, when will the phantom trio cd be release?
Laurent Martin, France
Jim answers: No plans for a S.J.P Trio record - it's a floating thing I do - it's all covers - so when I get the writing bug with the right guys I'll do it.

Question: Hey when's that dvd from that lemmy and slim jim show coming out?
"Cavey77"
Jim answers: The Lemmy/Slim Jim dvd will come out at the end of the year. We're trying to find the time to mix it (again).

Question: When I spoke with Slim Jim at the Aylesbury DMW gig, he mentioned that he and Lee were trying to get a deal together to get the Phantom, Rocker & Slick albums onto CD. Is there any chance that there is any update for this?
Jeremy Harding, England
Jim answers: Lee and I are still working on getting the masters for the P.R.S records... these things move slowly

Question: Hi Jim, I know you`ve been asked this before but will the 13 cats will be coming to the UK in the future? After the stray cats the 13 cats are the best thing since sliced bread (as we say in the UK), I`ve waited 23 years to see the stray cats so lets hope it won`t be as long before i get to see the 13 cats. I never got the chance to see the polecats so get Tim and the guys together if you can, you know you`ll go down a storm.
Allen Cox, England
Jim answers: We want to do a tour with 13 Cats and are waiting for the right offer. Tim is a dear pal and I'd love to do more work with him.

Question: Hello Jim. Have you ever met up with any of the old british rockers that toured and played with Gene and Eddie, like Joe Brown or Marty Wilde ?
Carl Christian from Kent, England
Jim answers: I don't think I've ever met any of those English cats. I've met a lot of the American guys: Dickie Harrell and Tommy Fascenda are friends and we knew Paul Burleson and of course Carl (Perkins) was the greatest and a great friend. I did meet Kim Wilde.

Question: What song would Jim like to someday cover with any band (stray cats or any other project)? What song inspires jim and make him say "Yeah thats a cool tune!"?
Chris Van Cleve, USA
Jim answers: Brian used to talk about doing a dark banjo version of Sympathy for the devil - that would be cool. Anything from the Elvis 'Sun sessions' still gets me good.

Question: What made you decide to run a rock club?
Michael H
Jim answers: I've always loved nightclubs and the idea of owning one. When the chance came up I took it!

Question: Who are your favourite drummers?
Michael J Harper, Co.Donegal, Ireland
Jim answers: As far as the classic guys I like D.J. Fontana and Dickie Harrell. I also like a lot of jazz guys; Buddy Rich, Philly Joe Jones and Max Roach are my faves. Bernard Purdie, Jeff Porcaro, Charlie Watts and Ringo are the rock guys that come to mind - if i think hard there are a lot more!

Question: Any plans for a European tour with your Trio or 13 Cats?
Jim answers: I think after the Stray Cats tour this summer I'll come to Europe with my trio. 13 Cats, I'm not sure.

Question: I would like to know your favourite leisure interests?
Graydon Wall, England
Jim answers: I have a couple of interests - I love baseball, I go to lots of Dodger games with my pals Gilby Clarke and Johnny Ramone - both baseball nuts like me! I have an old Corvette I fool around with. I have two kids which are kind of like a hobby!

Question: Do you like cats? Which famous cartoon cat do you like best?
Dr Rachel Carol, France
Jim answers: I have never had a cat - lotsa dogs - no cats - but I like Top Cat cartoons.

Question: Hi Jim, What do you do on a normal (working) day? I'd like to know what do you do when you get up and start working.
René Nederpelt, Holland
Jim answers: My average day - I wake up and get the kids to school and go right back to bed. I get up in the late morning and do calls and e-mails then go to my club where I do the work that's needed there. I pick my little one up from school. At night I usually have a gig or a session if not I'm at my club running the store. I like to spend time with my wife when I can.

Question: Jim, I was recently listening to a Stray Cats Radio show from mid 1984 with Tommy Byrnes on 2nd guitar. What was the reason to bring him in? And were there any recordings made for a follow-up to Rant and Rave? The radio show said a few times that a new album was coming late in the fall of '84. Which leads me to ask - Are there any unreleased tracks with the Stray Cats left in the vault? If so, any song titles come to mind?
Joe Finkle, Burbank, CA, USA
Jim answers: We took Tommy Byrnes on a tour that summer, he was a friend of ours from New York and liked having him around for a tour, we had written some songs that we thought two guitars would be good on. No recordings post Rant and Rave until Blast Off recordings. Nothing in the 'vault' that I know about.

Question: Will the Stray Cats record a new CD to support their European tour?
Lots of people!
Jim answers: There will not be a new CD before the euro tour - we will be recording the London show for a live DVD/CD.

Question: Jim, What do you think about the result of fan's top 10 favourite songs they like to hear on the Stray Cats European tour? Are you surprised? There are some songs that you practically never played live with the Cats (Shotgun baby, Cross that Bridge, Cryin' Shame, Gonna Ball, Little Miss prissy). Do you speak of this fan's choice with Brian and Lee? Will you take this choice into consideration?
Fabrice Bettane
Jim answers: I think the write in for fave song is a great idea - I was surprised by some of the choices, I had forgotten about some of them myself. There are (luckily) so many songs to choose from that we could never do everyone's fave. I will speak to the guys about it and we'll see what happens.

Question: A lot of the great rockers were dead before the Stray Cats hit the scene. Whilst you have heard their recordings and can see what they did for Rock n Roll they have no idea of the impact the Stray Cats had. What 3 Stray Cat songs would you have liked them to hear to show what the Stray Cats have done to keep their music alive?
Dave Moffatt, England
Jim answers: I would start off by playing them Runaway Boys - that was the next step for rockabilly music - inspired by the originals but in a totally new direction both musically and sonically. I would play Blast Off for the sheer power and badness of it, again to show the love of the old combined with some of the aggression and humor of the new and maybe then Elvis on Velvet to show how far it can be taken by adding some technology while keeping the spirit of the originals.

Question: I would like to ask Jim what his all time favourite song is and why?
Alison
Jim answers: My fave song has always been Runaway Boys. It was one of the first songs we wrote and it really created what they call neo-rockabilly - it was truly different and stands the test of time.

Question: What is your own personal highlight of your career to date?
Michael J Harper, Co.Donegal, Ireland
Jim answers: I don't have a career highlight - the fact that we helped revive and keep this music alive and bring it back to the mainstream and expose a whole new generation of kids to it is the thing I'm most proud of.

Question: What is your favourite Stray Cats record + video?
Jim answers: I don't have a fave record - maybe the first album for it's rawness but I like Choo Choo also because it shows how far we came musically. The videos are all fun - try to find Elvis on Velvet that's a crazy one!

"So while I'm just yakking away here I'm gonna answer some questions that I get asked about 155 thousand times every day while on the road and just walking around trying to go to the supermarket in peace!"

"I get asked stuff like, "What's rockabilly Jim, like what does it mean?!"
Well, rockabilly is one of the true American art forms. Totally made in America. It came out of the south, out of Memphis Tennessee Sun Studios. A guy named Sam Phillips was the owner of Sun Studios in Memphis and he always had an idea that if he could get one guy to kinda combine two musical forms that were happening at the time. And one was rock which was mainly black music, guys like Louis Jordon, Amos Milburn, Wynonie Harris, which was almost like a black kinda big band and these guys really rocked and it was kinda their terminology and rock was usually considered to be black music. And hillbilly music which was being done by guys like Bill Monroe, bluegrass hillbilly music. And Elvis Presley was pretty much the first guy to do it and he combined rock music and hillbilly music and they got the term rockabilly. It's got a big backbeat like rock music had and they used a string bass, a slap bass player which they use in rockabilly bands and a twangy guitar and it was kinda a , just kinda a merger of those two types of music and Elvis is probably the first guy to do it."

"And, another question I get asked all the time is "Jim, why do you stand up to play the drums?"
I'm gonna let you all in on a little secret, it's hemorrhoids, that's the real reason, I've never told anyone that before in my life but you guys are..... No, the REAL reason (laughs) is when we had the concept to do the Stray Cats we wanted to get a band that would get everyone in to the front of the stage and a way to do that would be to bring the drums up as well and during the time, during the 70s, the late 70s it was kinda a rebellion against big gothic rock bands who had 85 thousand pieces on the drums and you couldn't even see who was behind the drums sometimes, "who is that guy back there?!". So we'd seen some photographs of some early rockabilly artists especially Gene Vincent and the Blue Caps and their drummer would stand up and we thought he was standing up and playing but we actually got to know these guys in later life and found out that they only used to do it in photographs. So we moved all of us in to the front of the stage and at first I just had a cymbal and snare drum, not even a bass drum for a little while, cause it was really hard at first to kinda get the balance right."

"Which leads me to the second question "How do you stand up to play the drums Jim?"
And that's one of those mysteries cause I don't even really know myself. It's a, maybe I can tell you, it's just a matter of balance because all of your weight is, for me since I'm left handed, all of my weight is on my right leg and it's just a matter of getting a good foundation, good support to free up your left foot, my left foot, to be able to play some stuff on the bass drum but like anything else it's just practice and just do it when there's no one around cause you'll probably be falling down a lot at first and you don't want anybody to see ya! So that's my advice, just take it slow cause it can be dangerous."

"Any other questions out there?
Shout from behind camera: "Who does your hair?"
Who does my hair? That's an interesting question. My hair I actually do myself. Most people think we have a hairdresser who travels with us and lives with us 24 hours a day. But do it yourself! A little bit of Vitalis, a little bit of Nu Nile, it comes in a yellow tin you can get it from Thriftys a $1.79 a tin. A little bit of Final Net Ultimate Hold, it's got the purple label. Those are the three ingredients you need, and a blow dryer and a good brush. This can be yours!!! (Flicks quiff with hand)."