Born Leroy Eliot, Slam Stewart was a swinging bassman known for singing an octave higher while playing at the same time. Stewart studied at Boston Conservatory in the 1930′s . The Conservatory, located in the Fenway- Kenmore area of Boston, was founded by violinist and composer Julius Eichberg in 1867. The Boston Conservatory welcomed African Americans from its inception. Slam Stewart was inspired to sing along while playing when he heard fellow student Ray Perry doing the same with his violin.In the late 30′s Stewart teamed up with pianist and Guitarist Slim Galliard. Yep, Slim and Slam. They had a hit titled “Flat Foot Floogie”. Slam Stewart was a very successful session man in the 40’s, recording with Red Norvo, Lester Young, Fats Waller, and Art Tatum. His own band, The Slam Stewart trio, consisted of Slam Stewart on Bass, Beryl Brooks on Piano and John Collins on Guitar. In his career Stewart recorded eight albums and four compilations.
