A native west Texan, Jim Milam was born in Odessa Texas, grew up in Monahans, and now calls Fort Stockton home. His early influences were bands like Three Dog Night, Grassroots, and Bread.
“There’s just too many bands to list that inspired me – Grand Funk, Steppenwolf, Led Zepplin, Free, Iron Butterfly, Neil Young, Chicago – the list goes on. I have to say my biggest influence was being in school band under the direction of Mr. Dan Gibbs and associates. I learned so much more than music, like camaraderie, honor, perfection and the determination to succeed.”
Being a fan of diverse genres of music provided Jim a broad range of musical ideas and appreciation. Like most musicians, Jim began learning and honing his skills by playing cover songs, but what always seemed most important was writing his own songs.
“Seeing the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show was a major event for me. I was hooked.”
Jim got his first drum set when he was 14 years old, a complete Tempro set bought for $250 from Bill Pursers dad at Jet Printing.
“After about a year you could barely tell it was a drum set. I beat it up learning ‘In A Gadda da Vida’. (Special thanks to the neighbors for understanding!) I picked up the guitar a little later in life and learned it well enough to use it as a tool to write music.”
Jim played in many bands growing up with his brothers and many good friends, bands like Revolver, 3D, Avatar, Sweet Briar and The Hit. But for the last 20 years, he has played with Bart Reid and George Treadaway in the Thumpin Puppies.
“Statistics say the average band last two weeks. What an honor to play with these guys for so long, with guitar players like Kelly Rowden, Marcos Mendoza and Richard Dickerson.”
Jim’s passion has always been music. His debut solo album “Life” is a dream he has worked on for many years, and showcases his poetic lyrics and unique voice. The album can’t be labeled with one genre, spanning pop, rock and even easy listening.
“Music is the one thing that people from all walks of life have in common. It is the soother of souls to the fever of emotions. Let it be what it is for you – and enjoy the ride. Happiness is the key to living life to the fullest.
I humbly thank all of my friends and family for there support. Thank you to Piratesound (David and Leeann Falk) and Tim Gerron of Gerron Music for believing in me and my latest recording effort. Thank you Renee Gaylor and Chrissi Sumner.
Believe in yourself and keep God in your life.”