Chalfant has been recovering from a cardiac incident since November
Kix has announced that Matt Starr will be filling in for drummer Jimmy “Chocolate” Chalfant “until further notice.” Chalfant is still recovering from a cardiac incident he suffered while on stage with the band in November 2022. He was taken off stage unconscious, but says he needs more time to fully recover.
“As you all know, I’ve had some health issues in the last few months. I’ve been working hard to get back into playing shape, but unfortunately I’ve had a couple setbacks in the last few weeks. With the support of my wife Cathy, my Kix bandmates and crew, and all of our friends and fans, I will continue working to return to Rock Your Face Off to the best of my ability. But I’m not there yet,” Chalfant says in a message to fans.
“I’ve come to the realization that I will not be able to return to the stage as soon as I was hoping. I’ve been discussing with my wife and bandmates all the different scenarios for Kix to get back to playing for our fans again. We’ve all thought long and hard about it and have decided it is best to go forward with someone to fill in for me until I can return. We are very fortunate to have found someone who I think is the best possible choice for us.”
He continues, “Please show your love and support to Matt Starr as we welcome him into the KIX camp. He is an amazing drummer/vocalist who has played with many top artists, notably Ace Frehley and Mr. Big. I am humbled and honored that he has agreed to help us out and I welcome him with open arms. As of now, Matt will be playing all the KIX shows until further notice. Please show your support of the band, and Matt, until I can make my return. See you soon!”
Kix is set to return to the road on Friday, March 17th in Lititz, PA. Dates are currently scheduled through December, which include an appearance at the M3 Rock Festival in May and Rocklahoma in September.
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