By Ruth Ruiz
Recently, Slim Man celebrated the 30th anniversary of his iconic debut album, End of the Rainbow. The festivities took place on Tuesday, January 28th at Vicky’s of Santa Fe in Indian Wells, a venue renowned for its cozy atmosphere and spectacular live music.
Slim Man, the charismatic bassist and singer-songwriter behind End of the Rainbow, was joined by an all-star lineup of world-class musicians. Guitar virtuoso Shea Welsh, master pianist Tateng Katindig, and powerhouse drummer Craig Davis Chesnut brought the groove to life. The night got even more exciting with a special guest appearance by saxophone legend Greg Vail.
With a career spanning over four decades, Greg Vail is one of the most sought-after saxophonists in the industry. From collaborations with jazz greats like Peter White, Rob Mullins, and East Bay Soul to touring with global superstar Luis Miguel, Greg’s talent and artistry are simply unmatched. This performance was especially poignant, as Greg was one of the first saxophonists to play alongside Slim Man early in his career. Their reunion on stage was a highlight of the evening, filled with chemistry and nostalgia.
Slim Man’s End of the Rainbow is a timeless masterpiece, blending smooth jazz with heartfelt lyrics and unforgettable melodies. To experience this celebration in person was to witness musical history in the making.
I caught up with Slim after the show to chat. Here is what the iconic Slim Man had to say.
CVW: You just recently celebrated your 30 year old iconic album release of End of the Rainbow at Vicky’s of Sante Fe. Tell us about some of the highlights of your career over those 30 years?
Slim: “One of the highlights was when I sang for Pope John Paul at the Vatican on Christmas Day, 1999. I mean, I wasn’t strumming guitar, singing lullabies as he dozed off in his Pope pjs. I sang in a choir at the Vatican’s concert hall. We performed Magnificat, a choral masterpiece written by Beppe Cantarelli. It’s one of my favorite pieces of music. Pope John Paul was in the front row. He didn’t start a mosh pit, but he really seemed to enjoy the performance.”
CVW: How many albums/CDs have you released over the 30 years?
Slim: “I’ve released 15 Slim Man CDs over that past 30 years. The latest, Slim Man Bona Fide, was released in 2023.”
CVW: You have a residency at Vicky’s correct? Do you perform at other places throughout the valley? Out of the Valley?
Slim: “I do a Rat Pack Duo residency with Sax Man Chase Huna every Wednesday in Palm Desert at Larkspur Grill in the Hotel Paseo. We do Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Nat King Cole songs. There’s a video screen behind us that displays a slideshow of over 2,000 vintage Palm Springs photos that we’ve accumulated over the past few years. It’s a really cool show.
The Slim Man Band has a residency at Vicky’s in Indian Wells every Tuesday. I get there at noon to set up and check the lights and sound to make sure everything looks and sounds good. And I don’t get back the Slim Shack until about 11 PM! I write a song list for every show to make sure we don’t repeat too many songs. Gotta keep it fresh!”
CVW: How has your sound developed over the years?
Slim: “When we first started, we always played as a band. Recently, I’ve started playing guitar or piano in the Slim shows. Just me, solo, out front, playing and singing. I like breaking it down like that.”
CVW: How many CV Music Awards do you have?
Slim: “I’ve won Best Jazz Vocalist at the Coachella Music Awards five years in a row. I’m really proud of that. It wasn’t expected, which made it even more special.”
CVW: Name a venue that you’ve never performed at but have always wanted to?
Slim: “I’d love to play the Umbria Jazz Festival in Italy. That’s one place I haven’t played…yet!”
CVW: What are your future plans for your music?
Slim: “I just signed a deal with a company that places music in TV and films. I’d love to hear one of my songs in a movie. Maybe win an Oscar, an Emmy or a Grammy. Or at least a Slimmy!”
Great jazz awaits. Be part of the magic!
Check out Slim Man every Tuesday at Vicky’s of Sante Fe in Indian Wells.
